In support of World COPD Day on November 19, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) is calling attention to the urgent need for early and accurate diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), highlighting this year’s theme: “Short of Breath, Think COPD.”
COPD is a preventable and treatable condition recognized by breathlessness, a chronic cough, and sputum production. It claims approximately three million lives globally each year—particularly in low-resource countries—and its prevalence is expected to rise due to aging populations and ongoing exposure to risk factors such as tobacco smoke and air pollution.
Although COPD is a common, preventable, and treatable disease, extensive under-diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and late-diagnosis lead to patients receiving no treatment, incorrect treatment, or less effective treatment. Studies from across the world suggest that up to 70% of adults with COPD remain undiagnosed, with rates even higher in low and middle-income countries.(1,2,3) Undiagnosed COPD can lead to greater symptom burden, poor quality of life, impaired work productivity, and poorer overall general health status.(4)
There are many factors that can lead to inappropriate or missed diagnosis, including patient-, healthcare system-, and provider-related factors. Patients may not recognize or report symptoms accurately, healthcare systems may not have resources to adequately train staff in respiratory health, or providers may have a poor understanding of COPD diagnostic criteria.
It’s important for health providers to look for the following risk factors:
- Age ≥ 35 years
- Exposure to risk factors (tobacco smoke, household and outdoor air pollutions, occupational exposures)
- Genetic factors
- Prematurity and early life disadvantage factors
- Respiratory symptoms
Accurate and timely diagnosis of COPD can improve quality of life and health outcomes. Based on currently available evidence, GOLD advocates for active case finding, including performing spirometry in individuals with symptoms and/or risk factors.(5)
Although there is currently no cure for COPD, steps to help improve diagnosis can have a positive impact on future health. Patients and families can help advocate for more research and better access to care, including routine spirometry screenings and telehealth access for patients in remote settings. In addition, providers and policy makers can work together to improve access to spirometry and advocate for its use as a general health marker in all stages of life. Health systems can work to increase academic training programs specializing in respiratory health, as well as improve training in COPD diagnostic criteria, including the use and interpretation of spirometry.
Learn more in the 2026 GOLD Report:
World COPD Day World COPD Day is an annual global initiative run by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), a member of FIRS. The goal of World COPD Day is to raise awareness and present new knowledge and therapeutic strategies for COPD worldwide. The 23rd annual World COPD Day will take place on November 20, 2024.
Be part of the global effort to improve the lives of people with COPD. Join World COPD Day events organized by GOLD and FIRS. Find out more here.