DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
A chronic inflammatory lung disease causing obstructed airflow from the lungs. Includes emphysema (destruction of lung air sacs) and chronic bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes). Progressive disease that makes breathing increasingly difficult over time. Primarily caused by smoking.
384.0M
97
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Spirometry (gold standard)
- 2Chest X-ray
- 3CT scan
- 4Arterial blood gas
- 5Pulse oximetry
- 6Alpha-1 antitrypsin testing
- 76-minute walk test
Prognosis
Progressive disease with no cure. Life expectancy reduced, especially with continued smoking. GOLD classification guides prognosis. Frequent exacerbations worsen prognosis. Respiratory failure common in end-stage. Third leading cause of death worldwide. Early detection and smoking cessation improve outcomes significantly.
Prevention
- Smoking cessation (most important)
- Avoid secondhand smoke
- Minimize occupational exposures
- Air pollution reduction
- Vaccinations
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin screening (if family history)
- Early treatment of respiratory infections
Research Status
Smoking cessation is most effective intervention. Long-acting bronchodilators (LABA, LAMA) cornerstone of maintenance therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids for frequent exacerbations. Triple therapy (ICS/LABA/LAMA) for advanced disease. Pulmonary rehabilitation improves quality of life. Lung volume reduction surgery and lung transplant for end-stage. Biologics (duplumab) for COPD with type 2 inflammation.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.