The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Media Alert
CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TO TACKLE RESPIRATORY ILLNESS AFFECTING
6 MILLION AUSTRALIANS
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, will be in Melbourne TOMORROW to launch
Prevent Puffer Problems – a campaign targeting six million Australians with respiratory
conditions.
Mr Griffin said respiratory disease, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is the fifth
largest cause of death in Australia and can be prevented easily if sufferers were more aware of
how to manage their condition. It is estimated that more than 51,000 veterans don’t use their
puffers properly.
“The Australian Lung Foundation estimates Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases costs the
Australian community $9 billion every year. The Prevent Puffer Problems campaign will promote
proper inhaler technique and help veterans manage their condition more effectively,” Mr Griffin
said.
The launch will include a demonstration of correct puffer procedures, spirometry testing and a
screening of educational material developed for the campaign.
Date:
Thursday, 20 November 2008
Time:
10:00 am
Location:
Austin Hospital
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
NEWS 
