The American Legion Department of Ohio and the American Lung Association in Ohio have joined together to create OPERATION COPD.

NOVEMBER IS COPD AWARENESS MONTH!

COPD, also known as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is a very serious disease, and the third leading cause of death in the United States. The good news is that COPD is often preventable and treatable.

Robert "Bob" Klostermeier, American Legion Department of Ohio State Commander and Chairman of OPERATION COPD has chosen this project to expand knowledge and information about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and to raise funds to support research and the work of the American Lung Association. This cause is also very important to Bob because of family that has been affected.

DONATE NOW TO OPERATION COPD

• COPD is the third leading cause of death in America, claiming the lives of 124,477 Americans in 2007.
• This is the eight consecutive year in which women have exceeded men in the number of deaths attributable to COPD. In 2007, almost 64,000 females died compared to almost 60,000 males.
• Emphysema and chronic bronchitis often co-exist in COPD. The quality of life for a person suffering from COPD diminishes as the disease progresses. At the onset, there is minimal shortness of breath.
• People with COPD may eventually require supplemental oxygen and may have to rely on mechanical respiratory assistance.
• COPD lung damage is irreversible, but there are treatments that can improve a patient's quality of life. 
• Click here to learn more about COPD.