Letters to the editor published April 26, 2004
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Support COPD EFFORTS
To the editor:
I am a member of EFFORTS, an online support group for COPD/Emphysema
patients, http://www.emphysema.net, working to improve the lot of
ourselves and millions of other Americans diagnosed with some form of
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a progressive,
degenerative disease that, on an individual basis, affects every part
of our lives, including limiting our ability to work, sleep, and
participate in social and physical activities. And on a societal
basis, it is the fourth leading cause of death and disability in the
United States. At present, there is no known cure. Prevention and
early detection are the best weapons in the fight against it, yet they
are not widely used, as awareness of its debilitating effects and its
enormous social and economic costs is generally lacking.
Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-Arkansas), and
Reps. John Lewis (D-Georgia) and Cliff Stearns (R-Florida) are
co-chairing a new caucus, the Congressional Chronic Obstructive
Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Caucus. It will be dedicated to furthering
awareness of COPD risks and promoting policies that improve the lives
of COPD patients. The Caucus will partner with a broad coalition of
physician, patient, and homecare organizations to educate members of
Congress on COPD and advocate policies to encourage prevention and
early detection.
Please join and participate in the activities of this caucus. (Barrett
Thornhill in Senator Crapo's office can be contacted for more
information).
Sincerely
Kathy Zimoski
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