Breathe better during Healthy Lung Month

As the calendar turns to October, we mark Healthy Lung Month—a dedicated time to shine a spotlight on one of the most essential yet often overlooked organs: your lungs. Each week throughout October, we’ll be highlighting several lung health concerns and practical steps to keep your lungs functioning well.

What is Wellness Wake Up Call?

Nutrition and wellness educator Kristin Bogdonas of University of Illinois Extension provides timely news, information, ideas to promote healthy living in the Quad Cities and beyond.Wellness Wake Up Call is produced by WVIK in partnership with University of Illinois Extension.

Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake-Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
As the calendar turns to October, we mark Healthy Lung Month—a dedicated time to shine a spotlight on one of the most essential yet often overlooked organs: your lungs. Every October, organizations like the American Lung Association, advocacy groups, and public health communities unite to educate and empower people to take action for their respiratory wellbeing.
This might take your breath away, but Millions of Americans face lung-related challenges. In the United States, more than 26 million people—including over 6 million children—have asthma, and nearly 16 million people battle COPD. And tragically, about a quarter million succumb to lung cancer each year.
Each week throughout October, we’ll be highlighting several lung health concerns and practical steps to keep your lungs functioning well. In the meantime, be proactive and embrace opportunities to support your lungs like increasing cardiovascular exercise, eating foods rich in anti-oxidants, and paying attention to the air quality both inside and outside of your home.
Finally, don’t skip routine check-ups. Early detection of warning signs—persistent cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing—can be crucial. Also, if you’re a smoker, please talk to your health care provider about cessation resources.
So, this Healthy Lung Month, let’s commit: to breathe thoughtfully and care for our lungs not just in October, but every day.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. This has been Kristin Bogdonas, nutrition and wellness educator with University of Illinois Extension.