June 10, 2013 -The European COPD Coalition organised a free spirometry test (lung capacity assessment) on 10 June at the European Commission, Berlaymont Building.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease also known as COPD is a lung and airways disease that is treatable but not curable. It is a deadly Chronic Disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Up to 10% of Europeans are affected by COPD and 200 000 to 300 000 people in Europe die of it every year.
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In order to highlight the extent of COPD, the European COPD Coalition organised a free spirometry test. This test is quick and easy to undertake and is part of the diagnosis of respiratory diseases. It only takes 10 minutes and is a simple way to find out if your lungs or airways are obstructed.
People who wished to get information about COPD and how to treat it were invited to have a chat with specialists on lung health – in 4 hours, some 250 people took the test.
EU commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, Tonio Borg, showed his support to the fight against COPD by taking the lung test himself. He highlighted the need for more prevention in this area as 40 million people in Europe suffer from COPD.
– For more information:
- Press Release] Spirometry day: [EU Commissioner for health supports lung testing
- 10 thinks to know about COPD
- Tonio Borg’s interview, video and pictures of the event.
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EPHA relate articles