OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

STATEMENT

IN OBSERVANCE OF

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

            Whereas, the State of Delaware has long been concerned with the health of its residents; and

             Whereas, chronic lung diseases, known collectively as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are the fourth leading cause of
              death in the United States, with more than 119,000 Americans dying from this disease each year; and

             Whereas, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases cost the United States an estimated $31.9 billion a year; and

            Whereas, 16 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with some form of COPD with a similar number undiagnosed; and

            Whereas, awareness, early detection and treatment are crucial in the prevention or slowing of the spread of lung disease in this country; and

            Whereas, Delawareans deserve the opportunity to grow, thrive and remain healthy, while staying informed of their respiratory health and of the
            factors that affect their health.

Now, Therefore, We, Ruth Ann Minner, Governor,

and John C. Carney, Jr., Lieutenant Governor,

do hereby declare November 2005

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

 throughout the State of Delaware, in an effort to help raise awareness about the prevalence of COPD and the serious effects associated with the disease.

_______________________________________________

Ruth Ann Minner

Governor

_______________________________________________

John C. Carney, Jr.

Lieutenant Governor

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