Skip to Main Content

On June 20, 2024, UnitedHealth Group issued a press release offering an update on the Change Healthcare cybersecurity incident that occurred on Feb. 21, 2024. While the investigation to determine whose data is impacted is not yet complete, UnitedHealth Group has started the process to notify impacted customers and shared a website that provides additional information. UnitedHealth Group continues to offer credit monitoring and identity protection services, as well as a dedicated contact center to address questions. You can learn more about the support resources by visiting Change Healthcare Cyberattack Support and/or by reaching out to the contact center at 1-866-262-5342 with any questions. 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Guide

icon: medical

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) occurs when the airways in your lungs are blocked. Symptoms include frequent coughing/wheezing, excessive mucus production, and shortness of breath. The most common types of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Affecting 16 million Americans, tobacco smoke is a key factor in COPD. To avoid getting COPD, avoid inhaling tobacco smoke, home and workplace air pollutants, and developing respiratory infections. Early detection of COPD may change its course and progress.

Learn more about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

icon: checkmark

COPD treatment can relieve symptoms and increase exercise tolerance. Common treatment options include:

  • Quit smoking. For people who smoke, the most important part of treatment is to quit smoking. 
  • Take medication. Talk to your doctor about medications that can treat your symptoms such as coughing or wheezing.
  • Avoid lung infections. Lung infections can cause serious problems in people with COPD. Certain vaccines, such as flu and pneumococcal vaccines, can help. Talk to your doctor about vaccination recommendations. Practice good handwashing techniques.  
  • Use supplemental oxygen. If your blood oxygen levels are low, you may need to use a portable oxygen tank. Ask your doctor about your options.
icon: resources

  • American Lung Association: The American Lung Association has a COPD Resource Library that provides videos, worksheets, and other tools for navigating your condition.
  • COPD Foundation: The COPD Foundation is a patient-centered organization committed to preventing COPD, bronchiectasis, and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease, and to seeking cures while improving lives and advocating for all affected.
  • Krames Online Library: Visit the Krames Health Library to access thousands of health sheets on medications, conditions and more.