Page 20 - Harnett Life Fall 2021

Breathing Easy

Harnett County American Lung Association Better Breathers Club

Living with lung disease can be easier. Sponsored by the Amer- The American Lung Association is the leading organization
ican Lung Association, Better Breathers Clubs are welcoming working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing
support and educational groups for individuals with COPD, lung disease, through research, education, and advocacy. For
asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, and heart disease who more than 115 years, the Lung Association has financed and
have difficulty with catching their breath at rest or during activ- facilitated research to treat and cure lung diseases; educated
ity. Caregivers and family of these individuals are invited to to keep kids off tobacco, including e-cigarettes; and advocated
meetings to help their loved ones learn better ways to cope with for laws that protect the air we breathe.
cardiopulmonary disease while getting support and knowledge
from others in similar situations. The Better Breathers Club Why Join an American Lung Association Better
of Harnett County is led by trained facilitators and cardiopul- Breathers Club?
monary therapists who give you the tools you need to live the Better Breathers Club (BBC) members learn better ways to
best quality of life you can. cope with lung conditions, while getting the support and ben-
efiting from the knowledge of others in similar situations.
The Burden of Lung Disease Better Breathers Club meetings offer a fun and stimulating
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third combination of guest speakers, problem-solving discussions,
leading disease-related cause of death behind heart disease and social activities. Trained facilitators and experienced car-
and cancer. The COPD death rates are higher among men diopulmonary therapists answer questions, furnish resources,
than women, whites, and individuals aged 65 years or older. and provide tips to stay active and healthy. In today’s world,
States in the southeastern United States have the highest COPD healthcare providers are extremely busy, and may not be able
prevalence, with West Virginia at 15.3% (highest in USA), and to engage in longer discussions and conversations that help
Virginia lowest at 6.4. North Carolina’s COPD prevalence is you to better understand your unique condition and symptoms.
8.1%. Joining a BBC will allow ample opportunities to ask questions
and engage in relevant discussions.
The American Lung Association

Page 20 Harnett Life ~ Fall 2021