The need for COPD case finding

It is estimated that two million people are currently living with undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the UK, with one in five of these having a severe or very severe form of the disease.¹ However, it is likely there are even more people living with undiagnosed COPD than we realise, with evidence to suggest that the true prevalence of the condition is underestimated.² Working with patients in Hull, an area where COPD and its associated mortality rate is particularly high, we are reminded daily of the true impact COPD can have on people’s lives.³ Patients can often feel isolated because of the difficulties of living with their symptoms, affecting both themselves and their families. A recent survey of COPD patients in four high-prevalence regions revealed that 61.5% of respondents have been unable to take part in social activities as a result of their condition.⁴