PERF, The Pulmonary Education and Research Foundation, is a small but vigorous non-profit foundation.  We are dedicated to providing help, and general information for those with chronic respiratory disease through education, research, and information.  This publication is one of the ways we do that.  The Second Wind is not intended to be used for, or relied upon, as specific advice in any given case.  Prior to initiating or changing any course of treatment based on the information you find here, it is essential that you consult with your physician.  We hope you find this newsletter of interest and of help

Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease

The GOLD Program (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) conducted the first annual World COPD Day, with the theme "Raising COPD Awareness Worldwide" on November 20^th, 2002. This was the start of an ongoing campaign to make the public more aware of COPD, and physicians more aware of diagnostic tools. GOLD is focusing on the awareness of COPD because worldwide data suggest that an astonishing number of people, including health care professionals, are unfamiliar with COPD. Yet, COPD is now the 4th leading cause of death worldwide, and is a staggering burden to the health care community. The cost of care for COPD is enormous, yet early detection, and smoking cessation can prevent the ravages of the long-term impact of lung destruction caused by COPD. 

On World COPD Day, in over 72 countries, the GOLD Program worked with national societies, physicians, patient groups, and government officials to develop programs to bring awareness to COPD. Media campaigns, public service announcements, press briefings, and local events were among the activities planned. Twenty-three state governors declared November COPD Month. Did your state take part in acknowledging this serious health problem?

Visit the GOLD Website at www.goldcopd.com for information on how you can join the yearlong campaign to "Raise COPD Awareness Worldwide."

The American Association for Respiratory Care and other members of the U.S. COPD Coalition were rewarded with a presidential message regarding COPD in their efforts to have November named as COPD Awareness Month. 

In part that letter reads: "I commend the organizations of the United States Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Coalition for your efforts to increase awareness of COPD and I applaud your work to advance care for those affected by this disease." You may view the entire message on the USCOPD Coalition website at http://www.uscopd.com/index.aware.html 

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