The Airway Code

1. Be active

Exercise strengthens the muscles around the lungs, better enabling them to expand and send oxygen around the body

2. Eat healthily

A balanced diet will help the body fight off chest infections as well as maintain a healthy weight which is important for the lungs.

3. Stay smoke-free

Tobacco smoke is a leading cause of lung disease as it causes irreparable damage to the lungs and airways. Passive smoking is also harmful

4. Get coughs checked

A persistent cough for more than a month could be an early warning sign of lung diseases such as COPD, TB and lung cancer. Don’t ignore or dismiss a cough, go and speak to your GP.

5. Look after little lungs

Lungs are for life so they need protecting right from the start! Young lungs are very sensitive and premature babies can develop respiratory conditions because they lungs don’t develop properly

6. Protect against dust & fumes

Working in dusty atmospheres and exposure to fumes such as vehicle exhaust fumes damages the lungs and can lead to respiratory disease

7. Ventilate rooms

Damp conditions and indoor pollutants such as animal dusts, mildew and chemicals contained in certain household products irritate the lungs and airways.

8. Become Asbestos Aware

Asbestos is still present in many homes and buildings and can cause a form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. Drilling, scraping or damaging asbestos can release dangerous fibres so make sure you get professional advice.

9. Keep germs at bay

Viruses can cause chest infections so wash your hands properly and regularly and try to always cough or sneeze into a tissue

10. Consider the environment

Climate change is leading to an increase in air pollution levels which have a negative impact on lung health. Do your bit to keep the world’s airways healthy!