COPD Awareness Month: A look at the facts about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

November is COPD Awareness Month. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of diseases that causes airflow blockage and lung-related problems. COPD covers several lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma.

In 2011, COPD was the third leading cause of death in the United States, with 15 million Americans reporting that they have been diagnosed with some form of COPD. More than 50% of adults with low pulmonary function were not aware that they had COPD, thus the actual number may be higher. There are a number of groups that are more likely to report having COPD. These groups include people aged 65–74 years; non-Hispanic whites; women; individuals who were unemployed, retired, or unable to work; individuals with less than a high school education; people with lower incomes; individuals who were divorced, widowed, or separated; current or former smokers; and those with a history of asthma.

Tobacco smoke is a key factor in the development and progression of COPD, although exposure to air pollutants in the home and workplace, genetic factors, and respiratory infections also play a role in the United States. In the developing world, indoor air quality plays a larger role in the development and progression of COPD than it does in the United States.

COPD can be prevented by avoiding inhaling tobacco smoke, home and workplace air pollutants, as well as avoiding respiratory infections. Early detection of COPD can change its course and progress. Diagnosis is achieved through the use of spirometry to measure lung function and detect COPD in anyone with breathing problems.

Treatment of COPD requires a careful and thorough physician evaluation. Treatment can alleviate COPD symptoms, decrease the frequency and severity of exacerbations, and increase exercise tolerance. For those who smoke, the most important aspect of treatment is smoking cessation. Avoiding tobacco smoke and removing other air pollutants from the patient’s home or workplace are also very important. Symptoms such as coughing or wheezing can be treated with medication. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an individualized treatment program that teaches COPD management strategies to increase quality of life. Plans may include breathing strategies, energy-conserving techniques, and nutritional counseling. Catching the flu can cause serious problems in people with COPD. Vaccination during flu season is recommended and respiratory infections should be treated with antibiotics, if appropriate. Patients who have low blood oxygen levels are often given supplemental oxygen.

There are a number of resources that physicians and patients can access to get more specific information on COPD. One important information source is the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). One of GOLD’s most important activities is to work with experts from around the world to produce resources about the diagnosis, prevention, and management of COPD. These materials incorporate the latest science to help improve the lives of COPD patients around the world.

TheAmerican Lung Associationalso has information about COPD. On this Website, you will find information, resources and tools to help you understand COPD, manage treatment and lifestyle changes, find support and take action.

Other COPD resources include the American Thoracic Society, the National Institutes of Health, and the World Health Organization.

For more information on COPD, go to the COPD Resource Center.