The aim of today's programme is to increase awareness of the both impact of respiratory illness on the patient, their family and relative and develop a greater understanding of the development and management of these illness in both the acute and chronic stages.

We hope to create and promote keen interest in the sharing of knowledge and experience which we hope will be of benefit to those in attendance.

Respiratory illness awareness week explained

This is the first Respiratory Awareness week, which NICHSA have organised. We feel it was extremely important to highlight the illnesses, which bring so much misery to their sufferer.

We realise Respiratory illnesses are not always visible therefore the general public may not always be aware of what the sufferer experiences of not being able to breathe normally. We in northern Ireland are privileged to have may excellent chest physicians and dedicated nursing staff specialists and welcome the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise at this seminar with a wide and varied audience.

We intend to make Respiratory Awareness Week and Annual Event.