Why This Matters
- COPD is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S. and globally, yet many people aren’t aware they have it.
- November has been formally designated as COPD Awareness Month, with major organizations providing educational toolkits, social-media resources, and community outreach campaigns.
- Early detection and proactive management can dramatically improve outcomes—so awareness isn’t just about knowing, it’s about acting.
What Is COPD?
COPD is the umbrella term for chronic lung conditions (such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis) that limit airflow, make breathing harder, and often worsen over time.Key facts:- Smoke exposure (current or past) remains the top risk factor—but indoor/outdoor air pollution, occupational exposures, and long-term lung damage also play a role.
- Symptoms may be subtle at first: shortness of breath when exerting, chronic cough or wheeze, fatigue, or reduced exercise tolerance. By the time many people seek care, substantial lung damage may have already occurred.
- Although there is no cure, many people can live longer, better lives with optimal treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.
Why We at SoNE HEALTH Are Paying Attention
As a health system committed to “improving health and lives through compassionate clinical care,” we view COPD awareness and management as integral to our mission.Here’s why it matters:- High impact for our community: Among our patients—especially older adults, those with a history of smoking, or living with other chronic conditions—COPD is a potentially under-recognized factor affecting quality of life.
- Interdisciplinary care: COPD management involves internal medicine, geriatrics, pulmonology, physical therapy, and patient education. Our network is well-positioned to deliver coordinated, whole-person care.
- Prevention and early intervention: By raising awareness, offering screening, and partnering with patients earlier, we can help prevent exacerbations, hospitalizations, and complications.
- National alignment: COPD Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to elevate education, screening, and outreach throughout our SoNE HEALTH network.
What You Can Do This Month (and Beyond)
Here are practical steps for patients, families, and care partners:- Know Your Lungs: If you have a history of smoking, chronic cough, or shortness of breath—even if mild—ask your provider about lung-function testing or spirometry.
- Quit or Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, make a plan to quit; if you’re exposed to second-hand smoke or pollutants, discuss risk reduction strategies with your provider.
- Optimize Your Lung Health: Keep vaccinations (flu, pneumonia) up to date, avoid respiratory infections, and stay active to strengthen your lungs.
- Partner With Us: At SoNE HEALTH, your provider can review inhaler technique, assess for pulmonary rehabilitation, and create a personalized lung-health plan to reduce flare-ups.
- Share and Support: Spread awareness using #BreathingBetterTogether or #COPDAwarenessMonth, and share educational resources with family and friends.
A Call to Action
If you or someone you love has experienced shortness of breath, fatigue, or a persistent cough, don’t dismiss it as “just aging” or “being out of shape.” Talk with your SoNE HEALTH Medical Group provider. Early evaluation and treatment can make a lasting difference.Together — as patients, providers, and community members — we can turn COPD awareness into better outcomes, fewer hospitalizations, and more quality years of life. This November, let’s breathe better together.About SoNE HEALTH Medical Group SoNE HEALTH Medical Group is dedicated to delivering top-tier care across family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Our integrated approach fosters wellness, coordinated care, and compassionate service for individuals and families across our region. For lung-health concerns, including COPD screening, management, or referrals, please contact your SoNE HEALTH provider.