A simple breathing test, called spirometry, can check for serious lung disease, yet only 26 per cent of current and former Canadian smokers over age 40 are aware of it, according to a new poll released by the Canadian Lung Association.
To remedy the situation, the Canadian Lung Association is launching its 10,000 Breaths campaign to help those at risk for lung disease to get tested.
"Our target is to motivate 10,000 Canadians to have their lungs tested. Across Canada, we are hosting free breathing tests from October 14 until the end of November," says Heather Borquez, CEO and president of the Canadian Lung Association. "If you or someone you know is having difficulty breathing or experiencing shortness of breath, getting tested is an essential first step. Ask your doctor for a spirometry test."
"Spirometry is one of the most effective ways to test your lungs for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; the new name for chronic bronchitis and emphysema) and asthma. It is a painless test that takes only a few minutes," says Dr. Allan Coates, a medical spokesperson for the Canadian Lung Association on pulmonary function.
To learn more about spirometry or to find a local spirometry clinic, visit www.lung.ca or call 1-866-717-COPD (2673).
