At Global Asthma and COPD Outreach (GACO), we are committed to reducing the burden of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by bringing respiratory health education, advocacy, and community-based solutions to underserved populations worldwide.
While our work is global, our primary focus is on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where the burden of respiratory disease is greatest and access to education and care is often limited.
Through four interconnected program areas, we empower communities, strengthen local capacity, and promote healthier lives, one community at a time.
Program Area 01
Community Outreach
Taking respiratory health education directly to the communities that need it most.
GACO brings respiratory health education directly into communities through schools, churches, mosques, community centers, workplaces, and other local settings. Our outreach programs are designed to increase awareness, promote early recognition of respiratory symptoms, reduce stigma, and empower individuals to better understand asthma and COPD.
Our goal is to meet people where they are and equip them with practical knowledge that can improve respiratory health within their families and communities.
Every outreach emphasizes
Asthma awareness
COPD awareness
Biomass and environmental exposures
Inhaler education
Symptom recognition
Stigma reduction
Healthy lungs and prevention
Referral to healthcare facilities when appropriate
Community Outreach in Action
These new outreach photographs are included alongside the existing in-person outreach collection.
View Earlier In-Person Outreach Photos
Program Area 02
Respiratory Health Education
Education Beyond the Outreach
Respiratory health education should not end when an outreach concludes. GACO provides ongoing educational opportunities that help individuals, caregivers, and communities continue learning wherever they are.
GACO Digital Health Education
Questions from the Field
Real questions from community outreach, answered through accessible respiratory health videos. Browse topics or find a video by keyword.
Showing 4 videos
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Maha on Asthma Stigma
Addressing stigma and misconceptions about asthma.
Respiratory EducationFrench
Mahamat — Respiratory Education
French-language respiratory health education from Chad.
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MaryPeace on Asthma Stigma
Helping communities recognize and challenge asthma stigma.
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World Asthma Day 2026 — SW Team
GACO's Southwest Nigeria team marks World Asthma Day 2026.
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World Asthma Day 2026
Addressing Questions from the Field
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Videos are for health education and do not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Virtual Respiratory Health Education
Some individuals and caregivers need additional support beyond what can be provided during a community outreach or healthcare visit.
GACO offers virtual respiratory health education sessions for individuals living with asthma or COPD, caregivers, and anyone seeking a better understanding of respiratory health. These one-on-one educational sessions provide an opportunity to ask questions, receive personalized guidance, and build confidence in managing respiratory conditions.
Sessions may include
Understanding asthma and COPD
Recognizing symptoms and triggers
Correct inhaler technique
Medication education
Self-management strategies
Lifestyle and environmental risk reduction
Answers to respiratory health questions
Please note: These sessions are educational in nature and are not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, or emergency care.
Program Area 03
Advocacy & Partnerships
Improving respiratory health requires collaboration.
GACO works alongside healthcare professionals, community organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, academic institutions, and global partners to strengthen respiratory health systems and improve awareness of asthma and COPD.
Our advocacy focuses on
Respiratory health awareness
Community engagement
Professional collaboration
Health equity
Global partnerships
Public education
Together, we can reach more communities than any one organization could alone.
GACO supports research, program evaluation, volunteer development, and community capacity building to ensure that respiratory health education continues long after an outreach event.
Our work includes
Volunteer training
Community educator development
Healthcare professional engagement
Student mentorship
Program evaluation
Community needs assessments
Educational resource development
By strengthening local knowledge and leadership, we build sustainable respiratory health programs that communities can continue to grow.
Global Reach
Where We Work
GACO is building a global network of volunteers and partners committed to improving respiratory health in underserved communities, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Whether through education, partnerships, volunteering, or support, you can help us expand respiratory health education to communities that need it most.
