Chronic obstructive lung disease kills one person every 10 seconds globally, according to international studies.

This year, people are being encouraged to test themselves for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, COPD, the lung killer that affects some 210 million people worldwide.

Today, to mark World COPD Day, a series of public seminars on the disease will be organised at Mater Dei Hospital.

COPD can be diagnosed by this simple test, called spirometry, which measures how much air a person can inhale and exhale.

It is projected that in 2030, COPD will be the third biggest killer worldwide. COPD is the overall term used to describe a variety of illnesses, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic obstructive airway disease. The lung damage is permanent, with patients finding it increasingly tough to breathe. The condition is closely linked to smoking in most cases.

Symptoms include early morning cough, wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty to breathe.

Places for the seminars can be reserved by calling 2545 6600.