11 saved#4,942 of 6,224

World COPD Day

Breathe in a world of awareness on World COPD Day and learn about preventing, treating, and living with this lung disease. Let's breathe easier together!

Wednesday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEThird Wednesday in November

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Hold your breath for this - November 20 marks the annual celebration of World COPD Day! Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) might seem heavy, but this day is anything but gloomy. World COPD Day was established by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in 2002, with the aim to raise awareness and improve care throughout the globe. Each year, more and more people join in on the initiative to help breathe new life into the world of COPD awareness. Take part with us as we inhale the knowledge and exhale the outdated misconceptions about this illness on World COPD Day. Let's breathe easier together!

TIMELINE

World COPD Day Timeline

World COPD Day Established

World COPD Day was launched by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) to raise global awareness about COPD.

First Public Events

The first organized public engagements and informational sessions take place worldwide to promote knowledge of COPD.

Rapid Growth

The observance day experiences significant growth, with more countries participating in activities and recognizing the event.

Global Recognition

Over a hundred countries observe the event annually, conducting free spirometry tests and other activities to raise public awareness.

Focus on COVID-19

Amid the global pandemic, this year's topic focused on the impact of COVID-19 on people with COPD.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World COPD Day

Take part in a charity walk

On World COPD Day, many organizations host charity walks or runs to raise funds for research and treatment. Joining in on these activities can be a great way to help the cause and stay active.

LEAD

Lead a breathwork workshop

Breath work is important to manage COPD. If you're experienced in yoga or meditation, lead a breathwork workshop. Teach proper breathing techniques and showcase how they can be beneficial for those living with COPD.

DONATE

Donate to lung health organizations

Make a financial contribution to organizations that are at the forefront of COPD research and patient advocacy. Your donation can help fund important research and support for those living with the disease.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Utilize your social platforms to raise awareness about COPD. Share facts about the disease, personal stories, or links to resources to help educate your followers.

ORGANIZE

Organize a clean-up

Initiate a local park or city cleanup. Reducing pollution can greatly impact the health of our lungs. This initiative is not only great for the community, but it's also a step towards preventing diseases like COPD.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World COPD Day is Important

Supports important research and advocacy groups

Donations gathered during World COPD Day often goes towards funding vital research and patient advocacy efforts. By contributing, we can help advance treatment options and support those living with this disease.

Raises awareness about COPD

World COPD Day spreads knowledge about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, its prevention, and treatment options. This is crucial to reduce the number of people affected and enhance the quality of life for those already suffering.

Promotes healthier lifestyle choices

By participating in World COPD Day events such as charity walks or city clean-ups, we not only help raise awareness but also engage in healthier activities. These behaviors can prevent not only COPD but also other chronic diseases.

Related holidays

Respiratory Care Week

Breathe easy! It's Respiratory Care Week. Let's honor the unsung heroes who take care of our lungs and keep us breathing healthy and strong.

Lung Health Day

Take a breath of fresh air and show your support for Lung Health Day! Do something today to take care of your lungs and those around you.

Lung Health Awareness Month

Join us this November for Lung Health Awareness Month as we raise awareness and funds to support those affected by lung diseases. Breathe easy, breathe strong!

34Read

TUE

May 2026