An open house is being planned for tomorrow at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) to raise Bermuda's awareness of lung disease.

Bermuda Hospitals Board has teamed with the medical charity Open Airways to mark World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day.

The event runs from 8.30am until 2.30pm in the lobby of KEMH, and will include adult lung screening as well as information on COPD.

Debbie Barboza, of the Asthma Education Centre, said that many people are unaware they suffer from the disease.

She said: "Some think their symptoms are just a natural part of the aging process. However, COPD is a life-threatening disease that will get worse if not treated."

The illness, usually caused by smoking, includes coughing, bringing up phlegm or mucus and shortness of breath.

Ms Barboza said: "If you are over 40, with a history of smoking and have these symptoms, see your doctor. A simple breathing test called spirometry can help diagnose COPD. The test is quick, painless and can be done at the hospital with a doctor's referral."

Liz Boden, of Open Airways, said that although the condition has no cure, it can be treated. The earlier a diagnosis is made, the more effective the treatment.

"It is important for people to realise that COPD can be prevented," Ms Boden said.

"If you are a smoker, quitting smoking is the best way to prevent COPD or stop its progression."

For an appointment to talk about COPD, call the Bermuda Hospitals Board Asthma Education Centre at 239-1652 or contact Open Airways at 232-0264.