Jenevieve Roper, MS
Jenevieve Roper, MS, is a doctoral student in exercise science at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. Her research interests include running mechanics and injury prevention. She is a recreational sand volleyball player, a runner and a fitness enthusiast.Article Archive
?Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, blocks the airways of the lungs, causing shortness of breath. Research shows that exercise can help people who suffer from COPD, so it’s a good idea for fitness professionals to understand the disease (ALA 2011).
COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States: Approximately 12 million people are diagnosed with this incurable disease, and an estimated 12 million more may have it and not know it (NHLBI 2013). Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two major forms of COPD.