Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to two lung diseases: Chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Both conditions cause obstruction of airflow that interferes with normal breathing. COPD is preventable and treatable. This definition of COPD does not include other obstructive diseases such as asthma, although uncontrolled asthma over a lifetime can result in damage and COPD.
Learn more about COPD risks, symptoms and treatment
National COPD Action Plan
The Department of Health and Human Services has released the first-ever Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease National Action Plan. It was developed through collaboration among federal and non-federal partners and with the COPD community at large.
Kentucky will use the action plan as a framework moving forward to develop strategies for addressing COPD.
Kentucky COPD Advisory Board
In late 2016, the Department for Public Health collaborated with state partners to create a Kentucky COPD Advisory Board. The board meets quarterly (March, June, September, December) to address COPD issues in the state. The board is currently working on development of a state action plan based on the national action plan. Get in touch to learn more and/or join the group.