Dear Editor
I’d be grateful for the opportunity to let readers of Kilkenny Press know about an important upcoming event for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD.
COPD, which is perhaps more commonly known to readers as bronchitis or emphysema, affects approximately half a million people in this country.
Indeed, we know that between 2017 and 2019, there were 823 people from Kilkenny hospitalised due to COPD.
The key symptoms of COPD are breathlessness and chronic cough. Smoking is the main cause but other risk factors include air pollution, inhaling dusts, chemicals or fumes, chronic asthma and family history.
People over 35 years with symptoms, or who have one of the risk factors should talk to their GP about getting checked out and having a spirometry breathing test.
Ahead of World COPD Day later this month, on November 13 from 1-4pm COPD Support Ireland will host a virtual conference, Staying Well with COPD, for people with COPD, their families and carers.
Keynote speaker is Professor Martin Cormican who will give the latest update on Covid-19 vaccination and answer questions people may have – these can be submitted in advance to [email protected]
There will be a number of health and well-being presentations on topics ranging from breathing techniques, to eating well for lung health, to exercise and staying fit.
With so many of our community now depending on technology to access virtual health services, we will hear about the latest developments in telehealth and remote care.
We know that many people can feel outside their comfort zone when it comes to technology and so we’ll also be offering practical advice on using devices to help ensure that no one gets left behind.
This event is free and registration is open at www.copd.ie
For anyone worried about COPD, please call our COPD Adviceline on Freefone 1800 832 146 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) to book a free consultation with one of our team of COPD health professionals.
As ever, we are here to help.
Yours sincerely
Joan Johnston
General Manager
C/O Creidim Centre
Central Park
Leopardstown Road
Dublin 18
