It kills more men than prostate cancer and more women than breast cancer — but many people with chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD) don't even realise that they have it.

Now, the Bermuda Hospitals Board is joining in the fight against the disease with an open house today to mark World COPD Day.

COPD is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, according to Debbie Barboza, from the BHB's asthma education centre.

She said some sufferers assume their symptoms are a natural part of the ageing process. "However, COPD is a life-threatening disease that will get worse if not treated."

Symptoms include: a cough that won't go away, bringing up phlegm or mucus when you cough and easily getting out of breath when doing physical activities like going up stairs or walking the dog.

There is no cure for COPD but, according to Ms Barboza, healthy lifestyle changes and treatments can slow the disease's progress and help sufferers feel better.

"It is important for people to realise that COPD can be prevented," she said. "If you are a smoker, quitting is the best way to prevent COPD or stop its progression. It is never too late to stop smoking. You may be breathless but you are not helpless."

The open house will be held in the lobby of the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital from 8.30 a.m to 2.30 p.m. Health care professionals will be there to administer screenings and give information on the disease.