COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

At The Manitoba Lung Association, we are here to support you in understanding and managing COPD. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a long-term lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. It typically affects people over the age of 40 and includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

What Causes COPD?

COPD develops over time and may be caused by:

• Smoking (primary cause)

• Second-hand smoke

• Frequent lung infections during childhood

• Exposure to dust and chemicals at work

• Indoor air pollution (wood smoke or biomass fuels like crop residue and animal dung)

• Genetic conditions

What Living with COPD Feels Like

With COPD, your airways become narrowed or blocked, making it harder to breathe. Simple daily activities—like walking up stairs or carrying groceries—can feel exhausting. While COPD cannot be cured, it can be managed with the right care, tools, and support.

We're Here to Help

📞 Speak to a Certified Respiratory Educator
Call toll-free at 1-866-717-2673 for free, confidential guidance and support.

📄 Downloadable Resources

• Your COPD Self-Management and Action Plan (PDF)

• COPD Handbook from The Canadian Lung Association (PDF)

Local Support Programs

Winnipeg and Area 

We recommend that you join the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program offered by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.  It is a program for people affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, chronic bronchitis and pulmonary fibrosis. 

Brandon and Area 

Connect with Prairie Mountain Health’s Lung Health Clinic at 204-578-4203. They offer:

• Lung Health Exercise Classes

• Monthly Support Groups

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Support

Quit Smoking Support

Quitting smoking is the most important step you can take. We’re here to help.

• Join the ManitobaQuits Peer Support Group on Facebook

• Participate in one of our Quit Smoking Challenges (offered 3 times a year)

• Visit our Quit Smoking page for tools, tips, and incentives

Staying Active with COPD

Exercise is one of the best ways to manage COPD. It can help reduce breathlessness, improve energy levels, and support independence with daily tasks. Even gentle movement can make a difference.

At The Manitoba Lung Association, we offer the LUNGtivity™ program—a gentle, community-based movement class designed for people living with lung conditions such as COPD.

LUNGtivity™ highlights:

• Small group classes (in-person or virtual)

• Movements tailored to all abilities

• Breath awareness, muscle conditioning, and stress relief

• No special equipment required—just a sturdy chair

💻 Learn more about LUNGtivity™

You Are Not Alone

Managing COPD is a journey—but you don’t have to do it alone. The Manitoba Lung Association is here with resources, programs, and a caring team ready to support your lung health.

📞 Call us at 204-774-5501.
🌐 Visit the Canadian Lung Association for more COPD resources