November 19, 2025
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.
Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Promotes COPD Awareness
November is National COPD Awareness Month.
WARRENTON, Va. – Nearly 7% of adults in Virginia are living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In the Northwestern Region 6.7% of adults have COPD. For National COPD Awareness Month, Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District wants to educate people about the disease, its risks and resources. COPD is a group of lung diseases that can cause airflow and breathing problems and gets worse over time.
“Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease impacts thousands across our region — this month, we renew our commitment to raising awareness, reducing risk factors like tobacco use and air pollution, and ensuring everyone has access to care that helps them breathe easier,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D.
COPD is a leading cause of death in the United States. COPD can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and a persistent cough. These symptoms can make everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs difficult.
The main cause of COPD is smoking. Quit Now Virginia can help you make a plan to quit smoking. It’s free to all Virginians 13 and older.
Other risk factors include:
- Air pollution: Repeated exposure to outdoor pollution from car exhaust and wildfires can put you at risk. You can view current air quality data from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.
- Secondhand smoke: Smoke from cigarettes, fireplaces and wood stoves can harm your lungs.
- Environmental Exposure: Limit exposure to workplace breathing hazards like harmful dust and gases.
- Family History: People with a family history of COPD are at a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. Talk to your healthcare provider about getting screened for COPD.
- Asthma: A history of asthma can increase your risk for COPD. Talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District encourages you to prevent or slow down COPD by quitting smoking, avoiding places with poor air quality, and seeing your healthcare provider regularly for check-ups.
If you are currently living with COPD, connect to education, support, and each other through support groups such as the Better Breathers Club in Virginia.
For more COPD resources, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department at (www.rrhd.org).
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