29/06/2010 (Agence Europe) - The EFA (European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients' Associations) is organising at the European Parliament, on Wednesday 30 June, an event aimed at marking the launch of the first European Call to Action on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). EFA aims to heighten awareness of this disease that affects 44 million people in Europe and could become the third cause of mortality by 2030. The main cause of COPD is cigarette smoke, but air pollution and inhaled dust can cause this disease which entails a gradual reduction in respiratory capacity and can prove incapacitating before it finally becomes fatal. The EFA wants patients to be better informed, with an early screening strategy and better access to care and prevention. The event at the EP is organised with the support of British Labour member Catherine Stihler. (O.J./transl.jl)