It’s time to address this leading cause of death: COPD – POLITICO

As a global patient advocate, I would say yes. But the reality is that it’s not. At least not today. I’m talking about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. And it’s time to make it a global priority.

COPD kills more people yearly than lung and breast cancer combined and is predicted to cost the global economy $4.3 trillion between 2020 and 2050. Yet only 5% of health policymakers surveyed in 2020 considered it a priority.

Equally important is the impact that COPD has on an individual human level. It’s a debilitating disease that can place an incredible strain on patients, their families and health systems.

Those living with advanced COPD can experience chronic cough, difficulty breathing and reduced lung function. The disease can also impact patients’ freedom – they may need help dressing and bathing, and sometimes may have to rely on friends and family for other basic tasks. That is assuming they have loved ones close by. In addition, around 40% of people with COPD have to reduce or stop working altogether. This strain is even greater for those of lower socioeconomic status.

A new report, The Global State of COPD, produced by The Speak Up for COPD Coalition, shines a light on the challenges associated with addressing COPD and the health inequities that characterize this debilitating disease. It also offers best practices and policy solutions from around the world. We believe strongly in three things: COPD is undertreated, underfunded and under-prioritised on the world stage as a public health threat. But more importantly, we, the Speak Up for COPD Coalition, are united in our belief that policy action can change this.

All COPD patients deserve the best care, regardless of their socioeconomic background