We rarely think about breathing except when we have trouble doing so and that’s why every October is Healthy Lung Month. Numerous organizations have joined forces to educate the public about the importance of protecting our lungs against general neglect, bronchitis, mold, air pollution, and smoking. The bottom line is If we take care of our lungs, our lungs will take care of us.
According to National Today, lung health has been a concern throughout human history and a phenomenon that has intrigued doctors, health workers, and scientists. Diseases such as tuberculosis, the flu, and many other airborne ailments have been around for a long time, looming over societies like a deadly blanket.
Tuberculosis, or TB, has been among the most prominent lung diseases in history, with traces of it even being found in ancient Egyptian mummies. It was tuberculosis that prompted the start of the American Lung Association in 1904.
More recently anti-smoking movements have joined in the healthy lung movement. Cigarette packaging warnings were established in 1966 and years of campaigning have successfully led to the change in perception of smoking among the American public, with Americans now realizing smoking is a major cause of cancer.
Lung disease affects a huge number of Americans. Around 10 million are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis each year, 25 million are believed to be living with asthma, and over 150,000 die from lung cancer annually. Our lungs are important and Healthy Lung Month is an opportunity to create awareness around healthy lifestyle choices.
There are lots of ways you can observe Healthy Lung Month. Here are just a few suggestions, from National Today:
- Give up smoking! Leaving tobacco behind is a hard feat to accomplish but once you do, your efforts will pay off with an improved ability to breathe deeper and longer, and healthier life can soon begin. Your body (and lungs) will thank you. If you want to start this process seek advice from an expert. Look online at various resources such as smokefree.gov or go to your local physician or family doctor for tips.
- Get a check-up! The best way to know if your lungs are functioning properly is to check in with your doctor. Discuss any shortness of breath and be honest about any symptoms. Pretending that symptoms don’t exist won’t make them go away. With a good bill of health and an action plan for better lung maintenance, you’ll breathe easier in October and beyond.
- Clean your house! Lots of people have allergies, especially to dust and animal dander. Make sure that you are regularly dusting your house, washing your blankets and rugs, and brushing your dogs and cats for any excess hair they shed. Change your household cleaners to gentler, non-toxic varieties. They may cost more but in the long run, you’ll be helping yourself and the environment.
To learn more about lung health, go to the American Lung Association’s website.
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