Cinnaminson, NJ, April 8th, 2015
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reports that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third-leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than 120,000 American lives each year. More than 12 million have been diagnosed with the condition, but another 12 million are likely to have COPD and don't know it yet.
COPD refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis and, in some cases, asthma. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “In the United States, tobacco smoke is a key factor in the development and progression of COPD, although exposure to air pollutants in the home and workplace, genetic factors, and respiratory infections also play a role.”
In addition to avoiding tobacco smoke, many buildings and homes have conditions or indoor air quality pollutants, irritants and allergens that may aggravate COPD in people suffering from the condition. These may include:
- Dust Mites
- Pet Dander
- Mold & Bacteria
- Pollen
- Scented Soaps, Shampoos & Perfumes
- Fumes from Cleaning & Other Chemicals
- Dry Cleaning Chemicals
- Smoke from Fireplaces & Wood Stoves
- Dusty Conditions
- Dirty HVAC Ducts & Carpeting
- Outdoor Pollution that Infiltrates a Property
“Identifying the presence of any of these in a home or work environment could help people with COPD,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Indoor testing results can provide the necessary information to detect substances and environmental conditions that could be removed or mitigated from a home or workplace to improve the lung health of people who have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.”
EMSL recently sponsored an educational video about COPD, indoor allergens and pollutants that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/tv-rKdXoW5A.
To learn more about indoor environmental quality testing services or other health and safety issues, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to government agencies, industry professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.