COPD Awareness Month: Environmental and Occupational Risks in the Treasure Valley
- Sarai Ambert-Pompey
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is often linked to smoking, but here in the Treasure Valley, environmental and occupational exposures also play a major role. This COPD Awareness Month, Libélula Primary Care invites you to explore the broader risks affecting our community—and the free resources available to help.
What Is COPD?
COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, causing symptoms like:
• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fatigue
It’s a leading cause of disability and death, yet many remain undiagnosed until symptoms worsen.
Local Risk Factors Beyond Smoking
• Agricultural Dust & Pesticides: Grain dust, ammonia, and pesticide drift affect farmworkers and nearby residents.
• Wildfire Smoke: Seasonal fires worsen air quality and respiratory symptoms.
• Wood-Burning Stoves: Indoor smoke exposure from heating sources can damage lung function.
• Occupational Hazards: Construction, custodial, and manufacturing workers face exposure to silica, asbestos, and chemical fumes.
What You Can Do
• Know your risk: Even non-smokers may be affected.
• Get screened: Spirometry tests detect COPD early.
• Protect your lungs: Use masks, ventilate spaces, and monitor air quality.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting is the most powerful step toward better lung health.
Free Local Resources
Better Breathers Club – American Lung Association
Support groups for COPD and other lung conditions.
Freedom From Smoking® Clinics – American Lung Association
Free and low-cost smoking cessation programs.
Boise Free & Income-Based Clinics
Sliding scale respiratory care and general health services.
2-1-1 Idaho CareLine
Free statewide referrals for health and social services.
Call 2-1-1 or text 898211.
Idaho Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (IAFCC)
Mobile clinics and telehealth options across Idaho.
Libélula Is Here for You
Libélula Primary Care offers personalized respiratory care, environmental health counseling, and support for workers in high-risk fields. This COPD Awareness Month, let’s breathe easier together.
References
American Lung Association. COPD Awareness Month. lung.org
CDC NIOSH Science Blog. COPD and Work: Occupational Risk Factors. cdc.gov
COPD Foundation. COPD Awareness Month Resources. copdfoundation.org
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Learn More Breathe Better®. nhlbi.nih.gov
America’s Health Rankings. COPD Data for Idaho. americashealthrankings.org
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