ADHS
News Release:
 |
 |
| Release: |
Health Department Launches Plans to Fight Arizona’s High Rates of Lung Disease and Asthma |
|
| Release
Date: |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –
October 7, 2005 |
|
| Contact: |
Michael Murphy, ADHS Communications Director: (602) 542-1094
Mary Ehlert, ADHS Public Information Officer: (602) 364-1201; cell (602) 721-0532 |
|
|
|
The State Health Department’s Tobacco Education and Prevention Program and Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Nutrition Services will release both Arizona’s Lung Disease Control Plan and its Comprehensive Asthma Control Plan on Thursday, Oct. 13 at Arizona State University Downtown Center, 502 E. Monroe in Phoenix from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in Arizona and the fourth leading cause in the U.S. Asthma is one of the nation’s most common and costly diseases, affecting over 31 million Americans, and costing over $14 billion annually. In Arizona, asthma prevalence and mortality rates have exceeded national averages in 9 out of the last 10 years. Both diseases are highly debilitating and their effects impact not only those afflicted, but families, caregivers, schools and worksites as well.
“These are health issues that affect thousands of Arizonans everyday,” ADHS Director Susan Gerard said. “These plans provide a guide for our community partners so we can take steps together toward combating lung disease and asthma in Arizona.”
American Lung Association and the Arizona Asthma Coalition were key partners with ADHS in developing the plans. The purpose is to guide future activities and interventions in Arizona to reduce death and disability from COPD and asthma. The plans include a description of the state’s lung disease burden and identify the needs of the community in combating lung disease and asthma.
Once the plans are presented to the public, the Health Department will provide technical assistance to community partners in implementation.
|
|
|
