COPD Foundation announces launch of Lung Health Chec...( SAN DIEGO CA (May 17 2009)The COPD F...),Health

SAN DIEGO, CA (May 17, 2009)The COPD Foundation announces launch of the Lung Health Check, developed in an educational collaboration with WebMD. Development of the Lung Health Check was made possible by funding from the COPD Foundation.

The Lung Health Check is an educational platform at www.webmd.com/lung-disease-health-check that both teaches the key symptoms and risks of developing lung disease, and suggests appropriate steps to take to prevent or manage disease. This solution offers a quick check on the effects that a breathing problem is having on a person's life, and offers suggestions both for those already diagnosed with a lung problem and those with respiratory symptoms as yet undiagnosed. The Lung Health Check will not give out medical advice, but is intended to serve as an educational resource and tool.

"The COPD Foundation is extremely excited about this collaboration with WebMD and to be able to provide a resource on lung health," said John W. Walsh, President of the COPD Foundation. Walsh said the new platform will help "inform, educate, empower and engage individuals to learn more about their lung health," and enable more effective interaction with healthcare providers.

"Those of us already diagnosed with lung conditions like COPD understand the importance of early and complete diagnosis and the value of 'learn more breathe better'," said Walsh. He said the Lung Health Check will be "a resource to millions of people searching for answers" to their shortness of breath.

"Millions have been diagnosed with lung problems and millions more have symptoms suggesting a possible lung problem, shortness of breath or cough or phlegm production, but remain undiagnosed," said Byron Thomashow, MD, Chairman of the COPD Foundation.

"Most lung problems are treatable but can only be treated if properly diagnosed," Thomashow said. "The Lung Health Check allow
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