World Lung Day is September 25
Adapted from an article contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator.
Every breath we take is a reminder of how important our lungs are to our overall health. World Lung Day, September 25, encourages health advocates, communities, and policymakers to work together for cleaner air, stronger protections, and to make healthier choices that protect our lungs.
Respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer affect millions of people. World Lung Day is a call to action for:
Raising awareness: It educates people about lung diseases and how to prevent them.
Advocating for change: It urges governments to take stronger steps against smoking, pollution, and poor air quality.
Encouraging research: It highlights the need for new treatments and innovations in lung care.
Promoting healthier lives: It inspires people to make small changes that protect their lungs every day.
Building global solidarity: It unites communities worldwide in the fight against respiratory diseases.
Taking care of your lungs can help you live a longer, healthier life. Here are some simple ways to support healthy lungs:
Quit smoking—and avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD and lung cancer. If you smoke, quitting is the most important step you can take for your health.
Stay active. Walking, swimming, cycling, or practicing yoga can strengthen your lungs and improve breathing.
Breathe clean air. Limit exposure to air pollution. Use air filters indoors when needed and wear a mask during high pollution days.
Eat for lung health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy lung tissue.
Practice breathing exercises. Deep breathing and techniques like pranayama can improve lung function.
Stay up to date on vaccines. Vaccines for flu and pneumonia can prevent infections that put your lungs at risk.
See your doctor regularly. Don’t ignore warning signs like a chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Early diagnosis of lung disease saves lives.
Lung Health Resources in Maine
If you or a loved one is living with a lung condition, there are local resources ready to help:
American Lung Association in Maine: Education, tobacco cessation, support groups, and caregiver resources.
MaineHealth Pulmonology: Comprehensive testing, diagnosis, treatment, and education for lung conditions.
Ability Maine: Information and resources for managing respiratory disorders.
MaineGeneral Pulmonary Care: Specialized care and minimally invasive procedures for lung disease.
Healthy Living for ME: Community-based programs to support overall health and wellness.
Maine CDC: If you or a loved one has asthma, you are not alone. The Maine CDC Asthma Program provides Asthma Action Plans and other resources to help control and manage your asthma. Learn more at https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/diseases-conditions/chronic-conditions/asthma
Healthy Acadia has partnered with the Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center to offer the Downeast Cancer Patient Navigation Program to residents of Washington County, Maine.
This program provides personalized cancer care and resource navigation, as well as cancer prevention education and early detection services, to communities throughout the region. Learn more here.