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The BLF encourages the people of Tayside to love their lungs

The British Lung Foundation (BLF) is launching the Love Your Lungs campaign in Tayside on Wednesday, 13th January to screen its residents for the early signs and symptoms of a lung condition called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Research[1] by the charity suggests there are an estimated 3.7 million people with COPD in the UK, yet only 900,000 people have been diagnosed with the disease. This means there are 2.8 million people who are currently unaware they have a condition which, if left untreated, could severely restrict their lives and eventually kill them. These are the “missing millions” the BLF wants to find.

Tayside residents are being encouraged to come along to these free events after research by the charity showed that people in the area are 22.3% more likely to be admitted to hospital for COPD than the UK national average.

COPD is a term used to describe a number of lung conditions including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which are often caused by smoking.It leads to damaged airways, making it hard for air to get in and out of the lungs.As COPD progresses, people find it difficult to cope with everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs, and can be left literally fighting for breath.Damage to the lungs caused by COPD is irreversible but if diagnosed early, symptoms can be treated to prevent further damage.

Mairi McConnochie, COPD Project Officer at the British Lung Foundation said “ is the UK’s fifth biggest killer, yet 75% of people who have it, aren’t aware they do. It is vital people are diagnosed early and treatment started as soon as possible. This campaign is so important to raise awareness of COPD and engage the public in maintaining good lung health.”

The testing only takes around 10 minutes, doesn’t hurt and simply involves blowing in to a tube. Trained health professionals will be on hand to advise those having the tests.Testing events will take place at the following two locations:

Wednesday 13th January: Abbeygate Shopping Centre, High St Arbroath DD11 1HY from 10am-4pm

Thursday 14th January: Asda, 89 Dunkeld Road Perth PH1 5AP from 11am-4pm

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For further information on the events, please click here

For further information on the events, please contact or call 020 7688 6018.

For press information please contact on 0207 688 5564

[1] British Lung Foundation ‘Invisible Lives’ report 2007