Posted on 18/06/2009 in Medical Government/ NHS related news A scheme by the Met Office has helped to make a real difference to those who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a poll has found.
Over three-quarters of respondents said the Healthy Outlook service helped them improve their wellbeing.
The survey also found one in ten claimed the programme encouraged them to take the recommended exercise to assist with their illness.
Clinical director of the Met Office Dr Tish Laing-Morton explained the NHS' resources were under strain last winter because of the low temperatures experienced in Britain.
"The COPD initiative is a great example of how we can use our knowledge of the link between the weather and health to help people manage their condition to remain well," he said.
Dr Laing-Morton concluded the scheme will hopefully be able to expand to bring further benefits to more people.
GPs and primary care trusts will have the chance to take part in COPD discussions at workshops over the summer.
According to the NHS, around 900,000 people in the UK have been diagnosed with the medical condition but it is thought up to 450,000 may have the illness and not realise.Other news stories from 18/06/2009
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