CPD module: COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the collective term for several lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties. Two key conditions in COPD are emphysema where air sacs in the lungs fail, and chronic bronchitis with inflammation affecting the airways or bronchi.[1,2]

Around 1.2 million people in the UK have a COPD diagnosis, but it is estimated that a further 2 million people have COPD which is undiagnosed. There are around 115,000 new diagnoses each year, although most people with COPD do not get a diagnosis until they are in their 50s, when symptoms become more apparent.[3,4,5]

Population prevalence overall is estimated at around 2%, but more than 4.5% of all people aged over 40 are diagnosed with COPD. Levels are increasing, having been at around 1.6% of the total population around 15 years ago. The increase may be due to better diagnosis, changes in record keeping and/or more people developing COPD.[2]

People with COPD are at higher risk of developing other health problems, such as:[5]

• lung infections like flu or pneumonia;
• lung cancer;
• heart problems;
• weak muscles and brittle bones;
• depression and anxiety.