Lung Association Invites People Living with COPD to Join Better Breathers Network

During November for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month, the American Lung Association invites those living with COPD and their loved ones to join its Better Breathers Network.

COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. In the U.S., more than 16.4 million people have been diagnosed with COPD, however, millions more may have the disease without knowing it. It is the third leading cause of disease-related death in the U.S.

“There is no cure for COPD, but the good news is that it is often preventable and treatable,” said Albert Rizzo, M.D., chief medical offer for the American Lung Association. “An important part of living with COPD is finding the right support, both for you and your caregivers. The American Lung Association is committed to supporting those affected by COPD and we offer a variety of resources and information about the disease.”

Better Breathers Network is a virtual patient-focused environment to share meaningful resources designed to support the nearly 37 million adults living with a chronic lung disease. Through this nationwide network, patients and loved ones can access education, support and a sense of connection with other adults also living with chronic lung disease.

By becoming a member of the Network, individuals can access webinars, videos and local support groups as well as more learning opportunities. Anyone can register for free and after signing up will receive:

• Access to the Better Breathers Network Resource Library which includes top tips on managing lung disease, handouts and on-demand educational videos
• Patient-focused informational newsletters
• Invitations to regularly scheduled, virtual Better Breathers Network meetings 
• Membership card and welcome packet
• Access to peer-to-peer support groups

For more information about the Better Breathers Network and to sign up, visit Lung.org/bbn.

The Better Breathers Network is possible thanks to support from our national sponsors, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline and Inspire.

For media interested in speaking with an expert about COPD and our Better Breathers Network, contact the American Lung Association at [email protected] or at 312-940-7001.