Grant reports

Spotlight on lung health in Nepal, Colombia and Tanzania thanks to Healthy Lungs for Life grants

Events aimed at raising awareness of lung health have been held across Nepal, Colombia and Tanzania with support from grants from the Healthy Lungs for Life campaign.

In Nepal, a range of events included an information event and an online art competition. Over 800 face coverings and hand sanitisers were handed out on World Lung Day (25 September 2020). The events targeted different areas of the country and aimed at encouraging people to look after their lungs and sharing key messages from the Healthy Lungs for Life campaign.

Also on World Lung Day was an online Zumba class, which was streamed live from Colombia and encouraged people to join in from home. The aim was to put a spotlight on the importance of physical activity for lung health. It was run by professionals who held pulmonary rehabilitation classes for people with lung conditions. Throughout the session, healthcare professionals shared key messages about healthy lungs.

In Tanzania, activities were held to raise awareness of lung health among the people who work in mining and the general public. As well as being exposed to mining dust, a significant proportion of mine workers have a history of cigarette smoking, so educational sessions were held to inform the workers about the risk factors for lung conditions. Members of the public also engaged in talks and with materials that were provided at a stall.