Breathe better

For most Kiwis breathing is something we do naturally every day. But for one-in-six living with a respiratory condition, being able to breathe properly is far from reality.

The first ever respiratory awareness month is coming to an end which has encouraged people to make small changes to their lifestyle, environment and healthcare for better breathing and healthier lungs.

Breathe Better September was a campaign organised by the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ to encourage people to start thinking about how they can improve their health.

‘‘Over 700,000 Kiwis have a respiratory condition, it’s the third leading cause of death and costs the country $5.5 billion each year,’’ Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ chief executive John Wills says.

Respiratory disease includes asthma, bronchiectasis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer and obstructive sleep apnoea.

The Langham Hotel got behind the campaign organising activities involving both staff and guests.

‘‘Breathe Better September is a great way to engage staff and get them talking about respiratory conditions,’’krystal Ikitoelagi from the Langham Hotel says.

Visit breathebetterseptember.co.nz.