COPD Awareness Event: Join the COPD & Me Roadshow at Limerick Shopping Centre

COPD Support Ireland Announces COPD & Me Roadshow

COPD Support Ireland is launching a nationwide roadshow to raise awareness about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The event, called the COPD & Me Roadshow, will take place at the Crescent Shopping Centre in Limerick on Tuesday, November 19, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, ahead of World COPD Day on November 20.

During the roadshow, healthcare professionals will offer free spirometry tests. Spirometry is a simple breathing test that measures how well air moves in and out of the lungs. A respiratory physiologist will perform the test, and a healthcare professional will provide information and advice on next steps.

COPD Support Ireland encourages anyone experiencing breathlessness or a persistent cough, with or without phlegm, to consult their GP about spirometry testing. Many GP practices now have access to HSE Spirometry Services in local Integrated Care Hubs.

A new booklet titled “COPD & Me” has also been published. This guide provides essential information on living with COPD, covering topics from diagnosis and treatment to exercise and mental health.

For more information on the roadshow dates and locations, or to download or order the COPD & Me booklet, visit www.copd.ie.

In Limerick, there were 1,145 hospital admissions due to COPD between 2020 and 2022. The National Healthcare Quality Reporting System estimates that 380,000 people live with COPD in Ireland, but only about 110,000 have received a formal diagnosis.

Marie Hennessy, a resident of Corbally diagnosed with COPD in 2004, shared her experience. She initially used inhalers and gradually added more medications. Despite her condition, she maintains an active lifestyle by participating in exercise groups and singing in a choir, which helps her breathing.

Dr. Stanley Miller, a consultant and chair of COPD Support Ireland, explained that COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. He emphasized that while COPD is not curable, it can be treated effectively with the right support.

Joan Johnston, general manager of COPD Support Ireland, highlighted the importance of awareness about COPD symptoms. Early diagnosis can significantly improve quality of life for those affected. She urged anyone with breathlessness or a cough to see their GP and consider spirometry testing.

For those concerned about COPD, the COPD Advice Line is available at Freefone 1800 832 146, Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The COPD & Me Roadshow is supported by GSK, Vitalograph, AstraZeneca, and A Menarini.