While heart disease and cancer deaths are actually dropping in Canada, another cause of death is on the rise: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
But comedian Mary Walsh has taken up the cause with the Lung Association, raising awareness of the disease and how to prevent it.
Ron James told The Telegram he is always surprised at his audience in St. John's.
"I don't know why Newfound-landers pay to see comedy when the whole province is funnier than a lot of people in my profession," said James, in the lead-up to two nights of stand-up in the city.
The two shows are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday at the Arts and Culture Centre.
Originally scheduled for just one performance, James agreed to a second show following the high demand for tickets to the first.
