National COPD Awareness Month and Optimizing Indoor Air Quality

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly 16 million U.S. adults have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and many more do not know they have it. COPD is also one of the top ten causes of death in the country, according to the agency.

While it has long been known that smoking contributes to an individual’s chance of developing COPD, there are also other risks. CDC warns that exposure to air pollutants in the home and workplace, genetic factors, and respiratory infections can also play a role.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive condition that makes it hard to breathe. Common symptoms of COPD include:

• Frequent coughing or wheezing
• Excess phlegm, mucus, or sputum production
• Shortness of breath
• Trouble taking a deep breath

“While there is no cure for COPD, it can be managed and treated,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Limiting exposure to airborne pollutants can help those with COPD better manage their condition and may help to prevent new cases. To bring greater visibility to the public about actions that can be taken to help prevent the disease, November is recognized as National COPD Awareness Month. EMSL Analytical proudly supports the efforts of National COPD Awareness Month. Our laboratories offer indoor environmental quality and industrial hygiene testing services for a wide variety of microbial and chemical contaminants that may cause or worsen respiratory issues. We also provides sampling supplies, easy-to-use test kits, air monitoring instruments, and personal protective equipment.”

EMSL sponsored an educational video about National COPD Awareness Month several years ago that can still be seen at: https://youtu.be/Sbl4FLOFBmc

To learn more about indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and industrial hygiene testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com . For access to IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail