COPD rates to see significant growth in next decade

Planet Earth with respiratory problems connected with an oxygen mask

Diagnosed cases of COPD are expected to jump by more than four million over the next 10 years in seven major markets, with an annual growth rate of 1.27%.

That’s according to the latest forecast from GlobalData. The report, “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Epidemiology Analysis and Forecast to 2033,” is predicting the United States will have the highest number of cases by 2033, at a total of 17.88 million. Spain, meanwhile, will have the lowest number at 1.15 million.

Antara Bhattacharya, associate project manager of epidemiology for GlobalData, said in a news release the increase in cases will affect everyone, but certain populations will be more impacted than others.

“Both men and women can be affected,” Bhattacharya said. “However, COPD is more prevalent among women and in the elderly population.”

Adults in the 60 years and above age group have accounted for nearly 70% of diagnosed prevalent cases of COPD in the seven major markets included in the forecast. The remaining 30% were found in adults between the ages of 35 and 59.

Although this potential increase in cases could present a significant burden in terms of mortality and morbidity, Bhattacharya saidthere are things medical professionals and researchers can be doing now to help alleviate that burden.

“Adequate utilization of spirometry, identifying the initial symptoms and recognizing risk factors beyond smoking and advanced age are critical for early detection of COPD,” she said. “Epidemiological studies focusing on early stages of COPD can improve the case detection criteria and treatment outcomes. Moreover, treatment of COPD requires a multifaceted approach that integrates medical interventions, lifestyle modifications, ongoing support, patient compliance with inhaled therapy, timely alterations of medicine dosage and proper inhaler technique.”

Chart shows forecast of diagnosed prevalent cases of COPD in 2033 compared to 2023.Chart shows forecast of diagnosed prevalent cases of COPD in 2033 compared to 2023, for adults 35 years of age or older, both male and female. The United States is predicted to have the highest number of new cases, for a total of 17.88 million.

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