The following information was provided by Tallahassee Memorial Health Care:

Nov. 18 is World COPD Day and TMH’s lung screening demonstration is just one of several taking place in the state capitals across the country.

The respiratory therapist at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital are holding this event to raise awareness about COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease to bring focus on COPD education for the community about the signs, symptoms and causes of the disease.

COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., and it is the only major cause still increasing in prevalence. According to a 2009 report from the American Lung Association, nearly 774, 965 people in Florida have been diagnosed with COPD. It is believed that there are as many undiagnosed cases in our state. 12 million people have been diagnosed in the U.S.

The demonstration will occur in the state capitol building to raise awareness among lawmakers about the debilitating effects of the disease and how early treatment can slow the progress and allow individuals to lead healthier lives for longer. Early detection is one goal of the lung test called spirometry that the respiratory therapist will be demonstrating.

Any visitor to the state capitol on that day can stop by and participate in the program by talking to the respiratory therapists and getting a lung test.

What: COPD Testing Demonstrations
When: Wednesday, November 18, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Where: Plaza Level Rotunda State Capitol Building