What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a disease that is actually characterized by two lung diseases.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a disease that is actually characterized by two lung diseases. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are two similar lung diseases that cause obstruction in the airways, making breathing more difficult. If either or both are diagnosed, then the individual has COPD.

With chronic bronchitis, there is inflammation in the lining of the bronchial tubes. The inflammation reduces air flow and causes the production of excessive phlegm. Over time, the chronic inflammation leads to scarring and thickening of the tissue, along with a permanent cough.

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My Journey with COPD: Advocacy and Empowerment

My Journey with COPD: Advocacy and Empowerment
by Edna Fiore

Dr. Thomas L. Petty began a concerted effort to promote COPD awareness and advocacy in the mid 1990s. His initial emphasis was on the education of the professional community about the importance of spirometry testing as a routine part of medical examinations and the education of both the general public and professional community about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His initial efforts culminated in the first U.S. COPD Coalition National Conference in 2003. I had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Tom beginning in 2004. My journey in the cause for COPD awareness has been exciting and rewarding in innumerable ways.

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