AI-assisted research summary: The third Wednesday in November is proclaimed as COPD Awareness Day each year.
Preamble Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis and refractory asthma, is the fourth leading cause of death in Canada and the only one of the top five causes of death for which both prevalence and death rate are increasing. It is estimated that by 2030, COPD will be the third leading cause of death in the world. COPD is a slowly progressive disease that affects more than 2.5 million Canadians, half of whom have not been properly diagnosed. In Ontario, approximately 10 per cent of adults are living with the disease. The major risk factor for COPD is smoking. However, other causes include environmental exposure to air pollution, industrial irritants, burned biomass fuels and a genetic condition known as Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. A more recent link has also been found between COPD symptoms and the use of e-cigarettes. Major symptoms of COPD include frequent respiratory infections, shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, and a chronic cough lasting three or more months that may produce mucus, wheezing and chest tightness. A test known as spirometry allows for early diagnosis of COPD, yet over half of the people in Canada suffering with COPD will not be diagnosed until they reach an advanced stage of the disease. Increased public awareness, early detection and treatment are imperative to prevent or slow the progression of this extremely serious lung disease and will lead to reduced costs and longer, higher-quality lives. Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows: COPD Awareness Day 1 The third Wednesday in November of each year is proclaimed as COPD Awareness Day. 2 Omitted (provides for coming into force of provisions of this Act). 3 Omitted (enacts short title of this Act). ______________