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As a leading cause of death, chronic lower respiratory diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), continue to claim lives. Yet, awareness and early diagnosis efforts remain inadequate. With rising death rates and a disproportionate impact on women, experts emphasize the urgent need for education and prevention.
Chronic Respiratory Diseases: A Leading Cause of Death
Chronic lower respiratory diseases, including COPD, rank as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics confirmed this ranking in its final “Deaths: Leading Causes for 2022” report.
COPD, which encompasses conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can develop due to genetic factors or prolonged exposure to irritants like smoke and pollution. Common symptoms include breathlessness, fatigue, and persistent coughing.
Millions Affected, Many Unaware
More than 30 million Americans suffer from COPD, yet nearly half remain undiagnosed. Awareness of symptoms, risk factors, and disease management remains low. On a global scale, COPD ranks as the fourth leading cause of death, according to 2021 data from the World Health Organization.
“COPD affects millions of people in the United States and worldwide. However, despite being a leading cause of death, many are unaware of the disease and its symptoms,” said Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO of the COPD Foundation. “We must continue to increase awareness of COPD and educate people about its symptoms and the importance of early diagnosis, helping individuals live longer, healthier lives.”
Rising Deaths and Gender Disparities
According to the CDC’s report, deaths from chronic lower respiratory diseases increased by 3.5% in 2022. Although the disease was the sixth leading cause of death for both men and women, the burden of mortality was higher among women (5.0%) compared to men (4.0%).
The ten leading causes of death in the United States in 2022 were:
- Diseases of the heart.
- Malignant neoplasms (cancer).
- Accidents (unintentional injuries).
- COVID-19.
- Cerebrovascular diseases (stroke).
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases.
- Alzheimer’s disease.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis (kidney disease).
- Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis.
The report’s data is derived from all death certificates filed in the U.S. in 2022. Cause of death statistics are classified according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision.
The Call for Action
Despite its significant impact, COPD remains dangerously underdiagnosed. Health experts urge increased screening, improved education, and enhanced access to healthcare services to identify and treat COPD earlier. Public health campaigns and healthcare providers must work together to improve early detection and management strategies.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
