November is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month and Lung Cancer Awareness Month. COPD is one of the most common lung diseases, and lung cancer is the deadliest type of cancer for both men and women. To learn more about these diseases and their treatments, the American Lung Association (ALA) in Iowa is offering two special programs for patients, care givers, health professionals and students: the ALA Healthy Lung Expo on Friday, Nov. 9, and “Frankly Speaking About Cancer” on Wednesday, Nov. 28.
The ALA Healthy Lung Expo at the West Des Moines Sheraton, 2530 73rd Street, is a day-long educational program on the latest trends, resources and research surrounding lung health. The day will include breakfast, lunch, door prizes, exhibits and oxygen refills along with presentations on smoking cessation, health coaching techniques, new oxygen therapy delivery devices and more. Continuing education credits for nursing and respiratory therapy are available. For more information and to register, click here.
“Frankly Speaking About Cancer” is a free two-hour workshop on the latest treatments for lung cancer as well as the side effects, side-effect management and tools to overcome the social and emotional challenges of the diagnosis. Speakers include DMU alumnus Bradley Hiatt, D.O.’97, an oncologist with Medical Oncology and Hematology Associates in Des Moines. Click here for more information and to register.
