Lung Advocates are Speaking Up

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is the third leading cause of death worldwide, causing around 3 million deaths across the globe every year. Despite impacting more than 390 million people across the globe, COPD is still an often underrecognized and under prioritized condition.

This November 15, on World COPD Day, patients, advocates and other stakeholders are coming together to raise awareness about this debilitating disease.

About COPD

COPD refers to a group of lung diseases, such as chronic bronchitis, that block airflow and cause breathing-related problems. It is related to a number of different risk factors like air quality and non-tobacco-free environments. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, frequent respiratory infections, and chest tightness. As COPD progresses, people struggle with daily activities and may experience stigma and shame.

In addition to the physical and emotional cost to patients, COPD also levies a significant impact on the global health care system. Expenses associated with COPD will cost the world economy an estimated $4.8 trillion by 2030. That’s up from the $2.1 trillion in 2010.

The Need to Raise Awareness

Although these statistics are alarming, the public is largely unaware of the impact of COPD. It keeps causing large economic disparities both in developed and developing countries and gravely reduces quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

The disease remains under-recognized on the global policy agenda compared to other noncommunicable diseases. Ensuring early access to detection and improved disease management for COPD patients should be a priority across the globe, and it can only happen through collective action among policy makers, healthcare providers, patient advocates and patients.

World COPD Day is a chance to show those who struggle with this debilitating disease that they aren’t alone. Advocates from across the world can unite to raise awareness and collectively #SpeakUpforCOPD.

To learn more, visit www.speakupforcopd.com and join the conversation on social media by using #SpeakUpforCOPD and #WorldCOPDDay.