Preventing COPD: How to Keep Your Lungs Healthy

What is COPD?

COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. People with COPD may feel short of breath, cough a lot, or have trouble doing everyday activities.

What causes COPD?

The most common cause of COPD is smoking cigarettes. Breathing in cigarette smoke damages the lungs over time. Other causes include:

• Breathing secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Dust or chemical fumes at work

How can COPD be prevented?

The good news is that COPD can often be prevented. Here are some important ways to protect your lungs:

1. Don’t smoke

Not smoking is the best way to prevent COPD. Cigarettes, cigars, and vaping products all damage the lungs. If you smoke, get help to quit now: kickitca.org

2. Avoid secondhand smoke

Secondhand smoke is the smoke from someone else’s cigarette. It can be just as harmful as smoking yourself.

3. Wear protection when needed

When you are exposed to polluted air, dust, or strong chemicals, wear a mask or protective gear to help keep harmful particles out of the lungs.

4. Get regular checkups

Seeing a doctor regularly helps catch problems early. Vaccines, like the flu shot, can also help protect the lungs.

Need more information or support?

For tools, videos, and more information on COPD, scan the QR code or visit: qrco.de/CCH-COPD