Healthy Lungs, Healthier Life

Every September 25th, World Lung Day reminds us just how vital our lungs are, and how often
we overlook their role in our everyday health. Every breath we take delivers oxygen that fuels
our brain, muscles, and organs. Despite their nonstop work, lungs are frequently ignored until
symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue appear.

Lesley Williams, a Registered Respiratory Therapist at Apria with 35 years of experience,
states, “Our lungs work tirelessly with every breath, yet we often forget their value until that
breath becomes difficult. Prioritizing lung health today is an investment in every tomorrow.”

Why Lung Health Matters

Your lungs play a central role in your body’s ability to function. They supply oxygen to your
bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide, helping every cell operate efficiently. When lung health
is compromised by conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or
infections like pneumonia, even simple tasks can become difficult.

Lung disease can severely limit mobility, sleep quality, mental sharpness, and energy levels.
And yet, many lung-related issues are preventable or manageable with proactive care.

Tips to Support Stronger, Healthier Lungs

You shouldn't wait for symptoms to start caring for your lungs. Start with these straightforward
practices:

1. Avoid Tobacco and Secondhand Smoke

Smoking remains the top cause of preventable lung disease, including lung cancer and COPD.
If you smoke, seek help to quit. If you don’t, avoid environments where secondhand smoke is
present; there is no safe level of exposure.

2. Get Moving

Regular physical activity helps improve lung capacity and efficiency. Brisk walking, swimming,
cycling, or even gentle yoga can help your lungs work more effectively and build endurance over
a period of time.

3. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
Keep windows closed during high-pollution days or allergy seasons.
Reduce exposure to dust, pet dander, mold, and household chemicals.

Stay Alert to Seasonal Triggers

Allergens such as pollen, mold, or seasonal changes in air quality can exacerbate respiratory
conditions. Monitor local air quality reports and minimize exposure during peak times.

Vaccinate to Protect Your Lungs

Respiratory infections like flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 can worsen lung function or trigger
severe flare-ups. Stay current on recommended vaccines to protect your lungs and overall
health.

World Lung Day is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a call to action. Small daily choices can
have lasting impacts on your breathing, stamina, and quality of life. Whether you quit smoking,
exercise more, or get vaccinated, these steps all contribute to stronger lungs and a healthier
future.

References
American Lung Association. “10 Simple Steps to Your Healthiest Lungs.” American Lung
Association, July 26, 2023. https://www.lung.org/blog/10-tips-for-healthy-lungs.
American Lung Association. “Simple Steps You Can Take to Help Reduce Air Pollution on
World Lung Day.” Simple Steps You Can Take to Help Reduce Air Pollution on World Lung
Day, September 16, 2022. https://www.lung.org/blog/what-to-do-on-world-lung-day.
“How to Keep Your Lungs Healthy.” National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, November
22, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/lungs/lung-health

LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Material in this newsletter is provided for general health education and informational purposes and to provide references to other resources only; it may not apply to you as an individual. While Apria Healthcare believes that the information provided through this communication is accurate and reliable, Apria Healthcare cannot and does not make any such guarantee. It is not intended to be a replacement for professional medical advice, evaluation, diagnosis, services or treatment (collectively, “medical treatment”). Please see your healthcare provider for medical treatment related to you and your specific health condition(s). Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical care because of something you have read on or accessed through this website. Reading this newsletter should not be construed to mean that you have a healthcare provider/patient relationship.

Healthy Lungs, Healthier Life