Opened the debate
Georganas argued that lung health is often overlooked until compromised, affecting millions of Australians daily. Georganas cited statistics from his electorate, noting that over 1,900 people died from COPD between 2018 and 2022, with more than 3,000 potentially preventable hospitalisations in a single year. Georganas shared his personal experience with smoking and subsequent asthma to illustrate that lung disease affects people regardless of smoking history, urging the removal of stigma. Georganas stressed that early detection significantly improves outcomes, allowing for better care, independence, and reduced hospitalisations. Georganas highlighted the vital role of Lung Foundation Australia in providing support and advocacy. Georganas concluded by calling for national action to ensure accessible prevention, diagnosis, and care for all Australians.