The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) was founded in 1985 to help patients cope with chronic lung diseases and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

Next week, March 14-20, is National Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week, intended to acknowledge the work of pulmonary rehabilitation professionals. The week is designed to help educate the public and other healthcare professionals about the important role they play in the survival and quality of life of chronic lung disease patients.

Pulmonary rehabilitation specialists teach patients self-management techniques in order to help them stay out of the hospital. They teach patients special breathing techniques, educate patients on correct medication usage, and create exercise regimens to improve lung function.