Lung Foundation

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The term Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) covers those long term lung conditions which are characterised by shortness of breath, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.  Whilst each condition can occur on its own, many people have a mixture of the two problems.  COPD usually occurs in people who have smoked or continue to smoke cigarettes.  Exposure to irritants like dust and fumes can also increase the risk of developing COPD, but are not usually the primary cause.

A very small proportion of emphysema cases are caused by an inherited problem called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. 

A hidden disease

Research shows that there are many people living with COPD who are not aware they have the condition.  Estimates indicate that up to 1 in 5 people over 40 are affected by COPD.  Of those, about three out of four might not be aware they have COPD and are therefore not taking the important steps to stem the progress of their condition.  They could mistakenly be receiving treatment for asthma (symptoms for COPD and asthma are similar) or they could just think their symptoms, such as breathlessness, are a natural sign of ageing. 

Take control

Although there is no cure for COPD, symptoms can be controlled to improve your quality of life.  The lung and airway damage cannot be repaired, but all of the symptoms of COPD can be reduced if you take action.  Your quality of life can be improved and the length of your life can be extended. 

You can live well with COPD.  It's up to you to take control.

The following information can help you understand COPD and important steps to take to help you Sail on with COPD.

Find out more about COPD

What is COPD

• Risks and symptoms of COPD
• How do the lungs work?
• How is COPD diagnosed?
• What is spirometry?
• Living with COPD

Content updated July 11, 2008