How common is COPD?
COPD is the nation’s fourth leading cause of death, affecting at least 16 million Americans. It is the only leading cause of death that is rising in prevalence in the United States, death rates for heart disease and stroke are both declining. The number of Americans with COPD has increased by 60% since 1982. A recent comprehensive survey (“Confronting COPD in America”) documents the severe limitations the disease causes to routine daily activities. Nearly half of patients get short of breath dressing and a third get short of breath just talking. Yet the survey also showed patients drastically underestimate the severity of their condition. This leads to the common problem of patients waiting to seek medical advice until late stages of an irreversible disease. Where can you get more information? If you are currently a smoker see your physician about a smoking cessation program immediately, the only cure for this disease is prevention. If you have respiratory symptoms or you are an asympt
