World COPD Day

That the Parliament recognises that World COPD Day takes place on 18 November 2020; notes that this is organised by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in collaboration with health care professionals and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patient groups across the world; understands that its aim are to raise awareness about COPD and improve its care worldwide; is pleased that the 2020 theme is “Living Well with COPD – Everybody Everywhere”; recognises the importance of the message of living well with COPD, especially as over 141,140 people in Scotland are diagnosed with the condition, with many more people who are undiagnosed; believes that up to two-thirds of people with COPD remain undiagnosed and, without optimal treatment, progressive lung disease reduces their quality of life; recognises the need for early diagnosis and screening to ensure that those affected by COPD receive the treatment that they need; notes that, with the right support, it is possible to live well and self-manage the condition; recognises the significant importance of living well with the condition as people learn to live with the threat of COVID-19 to the respiratory and general health of people in Scotland; understands that, of the 80,000 people shielding with a respiratory condition, a significant proportion have COPD; praises NHS staff across Scotland who have treated people with COPD as well as COVID-19 during the ongoing pandemic, and recognises the dedication of charities, such as Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation Partnership, to protecting and informing people living with COPD, before, during and after the pandemic.