Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month Highlights Disease Risks and Symptoms

November is Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month, and this year, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) is highlighting risk factors and symptoms associated with the disease.

PHA’s social media campaign, titled “PHaces of Hope,” is based on stories from pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients and their caregivers, as well as healthcare team members. From social media efforts to advocacy, the organization is offering a variety of ways to both raise funds and disease awareness.

There are also other events this month, including runs and walks in Dallas; Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Pompano Beach, Florida; and Rochester, New York.

A Facebook Live Chat on Nov. 13 about chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) will feature a Q&A with expert Peter Hountras, MD, from the UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital.

Throughout the month, PHA will continually add “PHaces of Hope” testimonials to celebrate individuals within the PH community who inspire and empower others. People can submit their stories, along with a photo or short video, at phassociation.org/shareyourhope.

In her story, patient LaKeshia Orr writes: “My hope is that I can help increase awareness for pulmonary hypertension (PH) from a place of strength and optimism. Sure, PH is a rare and serious medical condition with no cure as it stands. However, when you see me, you’ll be met with warmth, a smile, optimism and enough hope for the both of us! I want to share my positive attitude and optimistic outlook with everyone I come in contact with.”

Nov. 7 is PH Awareness Month Day of Action, a day set aside for advocacy on behalf of the PH community. PHA is urging support for legislation regarding insurance and medication, and will help schedule a phone conversation or visit with a lawmaker or staff. Plus, supporters may join the organization’s advocacy network.

“Although treatment options exist to help people with PH, early diagnosis is still a problem for many individuals and that is why awareness of the disease is so critical,” Karen A. Fagan, MD, PHA board of trustees chairwoman, said in a press release. “Our campaign targets awareness among those in the medical community as well as patients, since early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.”

PHA is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit patient organization dedicated to the PH community. Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month is also supported by Actelion Pharmaceuticals.

For more information about PHA resources and initiatives, please check the association’s toolkit, and info about ways to raise funds for research and other efforts.