Global coalition urges governments to boost COPD care

A global coalition of patient advocates, industry and nonprofit organisations has called on governments to strengthen action on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The group points to widespread underdiagnosis and persistent inequalities in access to care as major obstacles to improving health outcomes for millions of people living with COPD.

COPD affects around 480 million people worldwide and ranks as the third leading cause of death on a global scale.

More than 70% of people living with COPD are estimated to remain undiagnosed, and the declaration highlights inequalities in outcomes, with people in the lowest socioeconomic groups at least twice as likely to experience poor outcomes such as hospitalisation and death.

The Speak Up for COPD coalition launched a Joint Declaration that outlines clear priorities for improving outcomes. These priorities include earlier diagnosis, equitable access to evidence-based treatment, integrated long-term management and proactive prevention measures.

Earlier diagnosis relies on raising awareness among primary-care providers and expanding the use of spirometry in community settings.

Equitable access focuses on removing financial barriers that prevent people from obtaining recommended treatments and ensuring that rural clinics are equipped with the tools needed for effective care.

Integrated long-term management combines pharmacologic therapy with education, exercise programmes and regular monitoring. Such a coordinated approach helps patients adhere to treatment plans, recognize exacerbations early and reduce the frequency of emergency visits.

Prevention strategies emphasize reduction of exposure to air pollution and occupational risks, and call for stronger vaccination programmes.

The declaration also notes that women in lower-income settings may face additional risk from household air pollution caused by biomass fuel used for cooking.