What is COPD?

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is an umbrella term used to describe the airflow obstruction that is associated with emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
• COPD diagnosis usually occurs when patients are in their late 50’s and 60’s once lung function has declined and the quality of life has rapidly deteriorated.
• COPD is treatable, but there is no cure for the disease
• COPD sufferers may eventually require supplemental oxygen and/or machines to assist with breathing
• In adults, early intervention following early identification of abnormal spirometry can lead to smoking cessation, occupational vocational, or environmental changes.

COPD in Arizona

• According to the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), deaths in Arizona due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) ranked 3 rd in 2002.
• COPD accounted for 6% of all Arizona deaths in 2002
• According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Morbidity and Mortality report, Arizona is among the states ranked highest for COPD deaths

For more news, resources, and information on COPD please visit our website: www.BreatheEasyAz.org.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION'S WORK FOCUSED ON COPD.

Join us at a Better Breathers Club!

Northwest Valley Better Breathers Club
Home Again Medical
5016 W. Cactus Rd., Ste 3, Phoenix
(602) 540-2827
1st Saturday of each month, 1:30 pm

Prescott Better Breathers Club
United Methodist Church
505 West Gurley, Prescott
Third Monday of each month, 4:00 to 5:00
For more information please call 771-5264.

East Valley Better Breathers Club
HealthSouth East Valley
5652 E Baseline Rd, Mesa
Conference Room 2
Third Wednesday of each month,1-2 pm
480-567-0350
Contact: Darla Miles, RRT, BLS Instructor

Chandler Better Breathers Club
Chandler Regional Medical Center
Morrison Building Board Room
1875 West Frye Road, Chandler
Carlene Wesley
(480) 778-5655
3rd Wednesday of each month from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m
http://www.chandlerregional.org/Medical_Services/Community_Outreach/18927 

Gateway Community College Better Breathers Club
108 North 40th Street, Phoenix
Room CH 126
2nd Friday of each month from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Coming soon—Banner Del Webb Better Breathers Club
14502 W. Meeker Blvd
Sun City West
Deborah Crooks, RRT
623-214-4141