November 21, 2025
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov
Crater Health District Promotes COPD Awareness
November is National COPD Awareness Month
PETERSBURG, Va. – Nearly 7% of adults in Virginia are living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In 2023, 7.1% of adults had COPD. For National COPD Awareness Month, the Crater 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.
“COPD is a serious disease, but it can be managed with early detection and the appropriate treatment,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH, MDiv. “If you have a cough that won’t go away or trouble catching your breath, reach out to your healthcare provider.”
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.
Crater 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 helping each other through groups like the Better Breathers Club in Virginia.
For more COPD resources, contact the Crater Health Department at 804-863-1652 or visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/crater/
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