IN SR0054

Recognizes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as an umbrella term for progressive lung diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that restrict airflow and grow worse over time.

Notes that tobacco use is the primary cause of COPD in the United States, though genetic predisposition and air pollutants such as secondhand smoke can also cause the disease.

Cites a 2011 survey showing Indiana ranked in the highest range of all states with 8.3% of Indiana residents diagnosed with COPD by a health care professional.

Urges the Indiana State Department of Health to classify COPD as a "chronic disease" on the chronic disease registry to provide better resources to diagnosed individuals and enable earlier diagnosis.

Directs the Secretary of the Senate to transmit a copy of the resolution to the Commissioner of the Indiana State Department of Health, Dr. William C. VanNess, II.