MCH highlights COPD awareness, importance of early screening

November is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month, and Medical Center Hospital in Odessa is emphasizing the importance of early screening. Experts note that COPD, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is often caused by smoking or environmental exposure. With over one million Texans currently diagnosed, officials warn that many others remain untreated, increasing the risk of fatal complications if the disease is not managed early.