Understanding Your Blood Test Results
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If you've recently had a blood test in the NHS, you might be looking at a list of abbreviations and numbers that don't make much sense to you. This article will help you understand some of the most common blood test results that you might see. However, it's important to remember that this is a basic guide.
Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Liver function tests are a group of tests that help to check how well your liver is working. Here are a few of the important ones:
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): These enzymes are found inside liver cells. When the liver is damaged, these enzymes are released into the bloodstream. Higher than normal levels can indicate liver disease or damage.
ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase): This enzyme is found in the liver and bones. High levels can indicate liver disease or bone disorders.
Bilirubin: This is a waste product processed by the liver. High levels can indicate a problem with the liver or bile ducts.
Gamma GT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase): This enzyme is often elevated in conditions that cause damage to the liver or bile ducts.
Albumin: This is a protein made by the liver, and it's needed to maintain growth and repair tissues. Low levels can suggest a problem with the liver or kidneys.
Full Blood Count (FBC)
A full blood count measures different parts of your blood.
Haemoglobin (Hb): This is the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. Low levels can suggest anaemia.
White Blood Cells (WBC): These are part of your immune system and help fight infections. High levels can indicate an infection, inflammation or an immune disorder. Low levels can suggest a weakened immune system.
White blood cells are further divided into different types, each with a different role:
- Neutrophils: These cells are the most common type of white blood cell and are the first to respond to infections.
- Lymphocytes: These cells are crucial to your immune system and play a key role in your body's response to viruses.
- Monocytes: These cells help to fight off bacteria.
- Eosinophils: These cells help to fight off parasites and also play a role in allergies.
- Basophils: These cells are involved in inflammatory reactions and allergies.
Platelets (Plt): These are small cells that help your blood to clot. High or low levels can indicate a range of conditions and can affect your blood's ability to clot.
Urea & Electrolytes (U&Es)
This test checks kidney function by measuring levels of substances like sodium, potassium, and urea in your blood. Abnormal levels can indicate a problem with your kidneys or with your body's fluid and electrolyte balance.
Sodium (Na+): Sodium is an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance in your body. Abnormal levels can indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or certain hormonal disorders.
Potassium (K+): Potassium is another important electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining proper heart and muscle function. High or low levels of potassium can have various causes and may require medical attention.
Chloride (Cl-): Chloride is an electrolyte that works closely with sodium to maintain the balance of fluids in your body. Abnormal chloride levels may indicate kidney issues or certain metabolic conditions.
Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Bicarbonate is a chemical involved in regulating the acid-base balance in your body. Abnormal levels can be seen in conditions such as kidney disease or respiratory disorders.
Urea: Urea is a waste product formed in the liver from the breakdown of proteins. Its level in the blood can reflect kidney function, and elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function or dehydration.
Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and excreted by the kidneys. It is commonly used to assess kidney function. High levels of creatinine may indicate reduced kidney function.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): This is a calculated value based on creatinine levels that estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. A lower eGFR may indicate decreased kidney function.
Cholesterol
This test measures levels of different types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood, which can help to assess your risk of heart disease.
Total Cholesterol: This measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. It is an overall indicator of your cholesterol levels.
HDL Cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. It helps remove excess cholesterol from your blood and carries it to the liver for processing. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are generally considered beneficial for heart health.
LDL Cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol. It contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Lower levels of LDL cholesterol are typically desirable.
Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in your bloodstream. They are a source of energy for your body. High levels of triglycerides can be associated with an increased risk of heart disease, especially when combined with other risk factors.
Cholesterol Ratios: Cholesterol ratios provide additional insights into your cardiovascular health. The most commonly calculated ratios include:
- Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio: This ratio compares the total cholesterol level to the HDL cholesterol level. Lower ratios are generally considered better, as it indicates a higher proportion of "good" cholesterol to the total cholesterol.
- LDL/HDL Ratio: This ratio compares the LDL cholesterol level to the HDL cholesterol level. Again, a lower ratio is typically preferable, as it suggests a lower risk of heart disease.
Clotting Tests
Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalised Ratio (INR): These tests measure how quickly your blood clots. They're often used to monitor treatment with anticoagulants (blood-thinning medicines) like warfarin. A high INR or PT means that your blood is clotting more slowly than normal, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
Other Tests
C-Reactive Protein (CRP): This is a protein that rises in response to inflammation in the body. High levels can indicate an infection or a long-term disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Amylase: This is an enzyme that helps your body to digest food. High levels can indicate a problem with your pancreas, including conditions like pancreatitis.
D-Dimer: This is a protein fragment that is produced when a blood clot dissolves in your body. High levels can suggest that there might be significant clotting occurring in your body.
Blood Glucose: This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. High levels can indicate diabetes, while low levels can lead to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs): These tests measure how well your thyroid is working by checking levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4). Abnormal levels can indicate conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Conclusion
While this guide should give you a better understanding of your blood test results, it's important to remember that these tests are just one part of the picture. Your GP or Specialist will interpret these results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other investigations. So if you have any questions or concerns about your results, don't hesitate to ask your doctor or nurse for clarification. They are there to help you.
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NAC CARES Virtual Challenge - We've Made It From Lands End to John O'Groats!
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We're pleased to announce that the NAC CARES Team has successfully completed our virtual journey from Lands End to John O'Groats. Over the past few months, our team has walked, cycled, and run an incredible total of 1744km (1083.9 miles)! Starting on February 1st, World Aspergillosis Day, we set ourselves 100 days to complete the challenge, but, we completed it ahead of schedule, on May 12th, 5 days sooner than anticipated.
Our virtual expedition has been a grand tour of the UK, from the stunning cliffs of Lands End in Cornwall to the rugged shoreline of John O'Groats in Scotland. We virtually journeyed through England's diverse landscape, passing through picturesque countryside, vibrant cities, and historic towns. From the iconic signpost at Lands End to the bustling streets of Bradford, the rich cultural heritage of Huddersfield, the dramatic landscapes of the Peak District National Park, the green spaces and cultural landmarks of Sheffield, and the legendary Sherwood Forest - each place a unique story in our broader narrative.
Crossing the border into Scotland, we continued our journey through the Scottish Highlands, with its breathtaking panoramas and rich history. We passed through the charming village of Fort Augustus, navigated around the famous Loch Ness, and made our way through the Cairngorms National Park, known for its diverse ecosystems, unique flora, and rare wildlife.
Our journey culminated at John O'Groats, traditionally acknowledged as the extreme northern point of mainland Britain, marking a triumphant conclusion to our endeavour.
But the importance of this journey extends far beyond the physical accomplishment. This effort was a symbol of unity, resilience, and determination, resonating with the values we uphold in our battle against fungal infections. We embarked on this challenge to raise much-needed funds and awareness for the Fungal Infection Trust, an organisation dedicated to advancing research, promoting awareness, and improving treatments for individuals affected by fungal infections.
We want to express our gratitude for all the support we have had throughout this journey. However, the fight against fungal infections doesn't stop here.
If you have not yet made a contribution or if you feel moved to give more, please do so via our fundraising page:
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/LEJOG-for-Aspergillosis
Thank you for your part in this journey and for standing alongside us in this vital cause. We celebrate the difference we've made together and anticipate the positive impacts we will continue to make in the future!
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Charity Walk Update: Nearing the Finish Line
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We're back with what will probably be our penultimate updater on our virtual Lands End to John O'Groats challenge, where we aim to raise money for the Fungal Infection Trust. Our team has continued to walk, run and cycle the virtual challenge and has now covered an impressive 1534.61km (953.56 miles), leaving just 209.59km (130.23 miles) until we reach our destination.
Our team is now on the final stretch, heading towards Inverness before following the coast up to John O'Groats. Along the way, we've passed the famous Loch Ness, a large, deep, freshwater loch extending approximately 37 kilometres southwest of Inverness. Known for its dramatic scenery, Loch Ness is also famous for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie."
Interestingly, in 2008, the late American scientist and lawyer Robert Rines, who spent decades searching for Nessie, concluded that the Loch Ness Monster was likely extinct. Rines had captured images in the 1970s that some believed to be evidence of the creature, but subsequent searches yielded no concrete evidence of Nessie's existence.
Our journey has also taken us through the picturesque Fort Augustus, a charming village on the banks of the Caledonian Canal and near the south-western end of Loch Ness. This beautiful area is known for its scenic surroundings and the impressive Fort Augustus Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery.
We've also ventured through the captivating Cairngorms National Park, the UK's largest national park, which is home to rare wildlife such as golden eagles, capercaillie, and wildcats. The park boasts five of the UK's six highest mountains, offering stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
As we approach the end of our challenge, we remain grateful for your support and enthusiasm. Together, we will make a difference in the fight against fungal infections. Stay tuned for or final update as we make the final push towards the finish line, and don't forget to donate via the link below:
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COVID-19 News
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COVID-19 App no longer in use
The NHS COVID-19 app, which alerted close contacts of a positive case and provides the latest health advice about the virus, closed on 27 April 2023.
Over the past year, the success of the vaccination programme, increased access to treatments and high immunity in the population has enabled the government to target its COVID-19 services, meaning the app is no longer needed. The knowledge, technology and lessons learnt from the app will be used to help inform planning and response to future pandemic threats.
It is important that people continue to follow the latest guidance to protect themselves and others:
This includes reporting NHS lateral flow test results on GOV.UK. Those eligible for COVID-19 treatment must report their result so the NHS can contact them about treatment.
COVID-19 vaccination spring programme
The 2023 spring coronavirus (COVID-19) booster programme is now underway. A spring booster dose is being offered to:
- adults aged 75 years and over
- residents in a care home for older adults
- individuals aged 5 years and over who are immunosuppressed
Those eligible can book their vaccination on the National Booking Service or NHS App.
The last date for the public to book spring boosters will be 30 June 2023.
The offer of a first and second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will also come to an end for many people on 30 June. After this date, the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk, usually during seasonal campaigns.
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Lung and Chest Pain: Perception and Mechanisms in the Absence of Nerves
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When we think of pain, we often associate it with injury or damage to a particular part of our body. However, the experience of pain is not always straightforward, especially when it comes to the lungs, as they have very few nerve endings compared to other parts of the body. This post aims to shed light on the mechanisms of lung and chest pain, including cardiac causes, and how lung pain is felt despite having very few nerves.
The Perception of Pain
Pain serves as a protective mechanism that alerts the body to potential harm. It is a complex process involving the nervous system, which includes peripheral nerves, the spinal cord, and the brain. Pain perception typically begins with the activation of nociceptors, which are specialised nerve endings that initiate the response to pain from stimuli. These nerve endings transmit signals through the peripheral nerves to the spinal cord and, ultimately, to the brain, where the sensation of pain is processed and perceived.
The Autonomic Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system is part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions within the body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, breathing, and temperature regulation. It operates mostly unconsciously, allowing your body to automatically respond and adapt to changes in the environment and maintain a stable internal state, known as homeostasis. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions in your body.
The sympathetic nerves are responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, preparing your body for action during times of stress. They increase heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate.
The parasympathetic nerves help your body relax and recover, promoting the rest and digest response. They lower heart rate and blood pressure and facilitate digestion. Together, these nerves help maintain balance in your body, ensuring it responds appropriately to different situations.
Lung Anatomy and Nerve Distribution
Unlike the skin and muscles, the lungs have a relatively sparse distribution of nerve endings. The majority of nerves in the lungs are part of the autonomic nervous system. The lungs are primarily innervated by the vagus nerve, which carries sensory information from the lungs to the brain. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves regulate bronchial smooth muscle tone and mucus secretion.
Pain in the Lungs and Chest: Mechanisms and Causes
Despite having very few nociceptors (pain receptors), it is still possible to experience pain in the lungs and chest. This pain can be a result of various factors, including:
- Pleural irritation: The lungs are surrounded by a double-layered membrane called the pleura. The pleura contains nociceptors that can become irritated by inflammation or infection, resulting in pleuritic pain – a sharp, stabbing sensation felt in the chest, which typically worsens with deep breathing or coughing.
- Referred pain: The brain can sometimes misinterpret signals from the lungs or pleura, perceiving pain in nearby areas such as the chest, back, or shoulders. This is known as referred pain and can result from lung conditions like pneumonia, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism.
- Bronchospasm: Constriction of the bronchial muscles can lead to a sensation of chest tightness and difficulty breathing, which may be perceived as pain.
- Lung tissue damage: Although the lung tissue itself has few nociceptors, severe inflammation or infection can cause damage to the surrounding tissues, leading to the perception of pain.
- Cardiac causes: Chest pain can also be a symptom of heart-related issues, such as angina or a heart attack. Pain from cardiac causes is often described as a pressure, tightness, or squeezing sensation in the chest. It can sometimes radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect your chest pain is heart-related.
Please note the above list is not exhaustive. If you are experiencing pain that is new for you, has not been investigated or is in any way different from your usual symptoms - please seek medical advice.
Further reading on lung conditions not related to aspergillosis can be found via the following resources:
- British Lung Foundation: A UK-based charity that offers extensive information on various lung conditions, their symptoms, and available treatments. Visit their website at https://www.blf.org.uk/ for patient guides and support.
- Asthma UK: A charity focused on helping people with asthma understand and manage their condition. Their website (https://www.asthma.org.uk/) offers information on asthma symptoms, triggers, treatments, and personal stories from patients.
- COPD Foundation: A non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Their website (https://www.copdfoundation.org/) provides a wealth of information on COPD, including educational materials, management strategies, and support groups.
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NAC CARES Virtual Challenge - 803 miles (1292.41 km) down
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It's been a couple of weeks since our last update, and we're excited to share our progress on our team's virtual Lands End to John O'Groats challenge. As most of you may know, we embarked on this journey to walk, cycle, and run the length of the UK to raise money for the Fungal Infection Trust. Despite the Easter holidays, we haven't stopped and are mostly being fueled by Easter eggs right now!
We have now covered a total of 1292.41km (802.6 miles), which is 74% of the distance, in only 67% of the planned time of 100 days. This puts us well ahead of schedule, with just 451.79km (280.6 miles) remaining in our challenge.
Currently, we are in Scotland and approaching the iconic Forth Bridge. Along the way, we have passed several historic landmarks, including:
Hadrian's Wall: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Roman fortification stretches for 73 miles (117 km) across the North of England from the west coast of Cumbria near the Solway Firth to the east coast near the River Tyne in Tyne and Wear. Constructed in AD 122 under Emperor Hadrian's rule, the wall was designed to separate Roman Britain from the barbarian north and served as a military defence line.
Edinburgh Castle: Perched on an extinct volcano, this historic fortress dominates the skyline of Scotland's capital city. With its origins dating back to the 12th century, the castle has been a royal residence, a military garrison, and a prison over the years. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, also known as the Stone of Scone or the Coronation Stone, which is a historic and symbolic block of red sandstone, measuring approximately 26 inches (66 cm) in length, 16 inches (40 cm) in width, and 11 inches (28 cm) in depth.
Our accelerated pace is down to our team's hard work and dedication. We are making excellent progress in our challenge, but we still have a significant distance to cover to reach John O'Groats and our fundraising goal. We are grateful for your support and are confident that, together, we will make a difference in the fight against fungal infections.
Thank you for following us on this journey; we look forward to sharing more updates with you soon. You can donate via the link below.
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The Benefits of Peer Support
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Living with chronic and rare conditions such as chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) can be a daunting experience. The symptoms of these conditions can be severe and have a significant impact on a person's daily life. The journey can be lonely and isolating, and it's common to feel like no one understands what you're going through. This is where peer support can be incredibly valuable.
Peer support is a way for people with a shared experience to connect and share their stories, advice, and coping strategies. It can be offered in various forms, including online support groups, peer mentoring programs, and in-person support groups. It allows people to feel understood, validated, and supported in a way that other forms of support cannot offer.
At the National Aspergillosis Centre (NAC), we understand the importance of peer support for people living with aspergillosis. While we offer advice and guidance on how to manage your condition, we recognise that much of the support comes from those with a lived experience of the condition.
Our virtual patient and carer support meetings are an excellent example of peer support in action. These meetings are hosted on Microsoft Teams twice a week and are open to everyone, not just those who are patients of NAC. These meetings provide a safe and supportive space for people to connect with others who understand what they're going through. They allow people to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from others who have lived with the condition for a longer period.
Through these meetings, patients gain insight into coping mechanisms and strategies that help others live as normal a life as possible with their condition. We have seen many of our patients build lasting friendships with people who understand what they're going through.
So, if you are living with any type of aspergillosis, our peer support channels can be a valuable resource. Connecting with others who share your experience can provide benefits that are difficult to achieve through other forms of support. Our virtual patient and carer support meetings are an excellent place to start, and we encourage you to join us and see the benefits of peer support for yourself.
You can find out the details and sign up for our meetings by clicking here.
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2023 Bronchiectasis Patient Conference
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The 2023 Bronchiectasis Patient Conference, organised by the European Lung Foundation, is a popular event for patients each year. This year we asked two of our patients who attended to share their personal experiences and thoughts on the conference, highlighting its importance and impact.
Our patients reported that the conference attracted 1,750 registrations from 90 countries, and during an online questionnaire, 47% of participants identified as living with bronchiectasis. Dr Fiona Mosgrove's presentation on "Living with Bronchiectasis" provided valuable insights on lifestyle, nutrition, and mental health, recommending two books for further reading.
Prof. James Chalmers discussed a potential new treatment involving an anti-pseudomonas monoclonal antibody, demonstrated through engaging video clips. The conference also covered other topics such as Phage therapy, bronchiectasis through different life stages, and the importance of end-of-life care discussions.
Both patients found the conference to be an informative and valuable experience, despite facing some technical difficulties and unclear presentations due to those difficulties. They appreciated Dr Chalmers' well-paced talk on new treatments, as well as Dr Mosgrove's discussion on mental health and airway clearance techniques. One patient noted that while coexisting diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma were mentioned, there was no reference to Aspergillosis. The conference emphasised the importance of daily airway clearance, exercise, relaxation, and ongoing research for more effective treatments.
In summary, both patients found the 2023 Bronchiectasis Patient Conference to be an enriching experience, providing valuable insights and practical takeaways for managing the condition. Despite some technical issues, the conference succeeded in raising awareness and fostering a sense of community among people living with bronchiectasis.
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NAC CARES Virtual Challenge – 587.5 miles (945.11 km down)
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We are excited to share with you an update on our team's virtual Lands End to John O'Groats challenge. As you may know, our team is walking, cycling, and running the length of the UK to raise money for the Fungal Infection Trust. We are proud to announce that we have completed 54% of the challenge, which is equivalent to 945.11km or 587.5 miles.
Currently, we are virtually passing through the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park, having already passed through several noteworthy locations on our journey. These include:
- Bradford: A vibrant city located in West Yorkshire, known for its industrial history and impressive Victorian architecture.
- Huddersfield: A bustling town with a rich cultural heritage, including notable landmarks such as Castle Hill and St. George's Square.
- The Peak District National Park: A stunning area of natural beauty spanning across several counties, including Derbyshire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire. It's famous for its dramatic landscapes, rugged moorlands, and picturesque villages.
- Sheffield: A vibrant city known for its steel industry, green spaces, and cultural landmarks such as the Millennium Gallery and Winter Garden.
- Sherwood Forest: A legendary location associated with Robin Hood and his band of merry men, known for its ancient oaks and rich wildlife.
- Rufford Abbey: A former Cistercian monastery located in Sherwood Forest, which is now a popular tourist attraction featuring a country park and gardens.
- Sherwood Pines Forest Park: A sprawling woodland park with a range of outdoor activities, including cycling, walking, and a Go Ape treetop adventure course.
- Robin Hood's Wheelgate Park: A family-friendly theme park featuring a range of rides, attractions, and live shows.
- Nottingham: A historic city with a rich cultural heritage, including landmarks such as Nottingham Castle, the Old Market Square, and the Lace Market.
We are thrilled to have made it this far, and we are well ahead of schedule. We are grateful for your continued support, but we still have a long way to go to reach our fundraising goal and John O' Groats; we are confident both will be achieved, and with it, we will make a difference in the fight against fungal infections.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to sharing more updates with you soon. You can donate via the link below.
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/LEJOG-for-Aspergillosis
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Asthma UK's End the Lung Health Lottery
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Today is the launch of Asthma UK's End the Lung Health Lottery campaign. The initiative seeks to address the significant health inequalities that exist across the UK and highlights the fact that where people live, their income and their social status can have a significant impact on their lung health, with those from disadvantaged communities being at a much higher risk of developing lung conditions.
The campaign's main objective is to end the "lung health lottery" and ensure that everyone has equal access to high-quality care and support for lung conditions, regardless of their background or where they live. In order to tackle the issue, Asthma UK is working with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other organisations to achieve this goal.
The campaign aims to address the root causes of lung health inequalities, such as poverty, air pollution, and lack of access to healthcare, and empower people to take control of their lung health. Asthma UK is calling for more funding for research and initiatives that can help tackle these issues, as well as more investment in public health campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of lung health.
Through the End the Lung Health Lottery campaign, Asthma UK hopes to create a fairer and more equal society for people with lung conditions. By working together, we can improve the lives of millions of people across the UK and ensure that no one is left behind because of their background or where they live. You can read more about the campaign below and pledge your support via the link below.
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