Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Report

Every 30 minutes an Australian dies from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a lung disease affecting 2.1 million Australians, which will escalate to 4.5 million by 20501, with catastrophic repercussions on the Australian health care system and economy.

The Australian Lung Foundation has launched a new Access Economics report, detailing the growing problem of COPD, including its economic impact upon Australians, and cost effective solutions to reduce the burden of this disease.

COPD is a long term disease of the lungs, which causes shortness of breath and includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

It is one of the leading causes of death and preventable hospitalisation in Australia, and places a heavy burden on patients and the health care system.

While there is no cure, the disease can be managed to help people breathe easier, stay out of hospital and improve their quality of life, particularly if the disease is identified and managed early.

The Economic impact of COPD and cost effective solutions report estimates that COPD, a disease which is more common in any year than most types of cancer, heart disease and diabetes, will cost Australians and the economy nearly $100 billion in 2008.

The report shows COPD is a growing health concern for women, who account for 57% of people living with COPD in Australia today.

It also found that 876,000 Australians have early stage COPD, and if left unrecognised, many of these will go on to develop moderate or severe COPD.

Of concern, past evidence indicates that up to one in three Australians with spirometry-proven COPD were not aware that they had the disease, which means they are not taking the important steps to manage the condition.

Within the report cost effective solutions have been identified, including diagnosis and early intervention and improved access to treatment, which will help cost effectively manage COPD in Australia.

People with COPD and their carers can contact The Australian Lung Foundation for information to help them understand and best manage their condition, as well as to put them in contact with local support groups.

For further information, help and support, please call for free on 1800 654 301 or visit The Australian Lung Foundation.