Overview
- Asthma + Lung UK says about 1.7 million people in the UK live with COPD, with an estimated 600,000 likely undiagnosed.
- People are advised to seek medical evaluation for a cough that persists or recurs, heavy phlegm, frequent chest infections, wheeze or breathlessness.
- COPD is progressive and incurable, with care focused on pulmonary rehabilitation, inhalers, oxygen or non‑invasive ventilation, and, in select cases, lung procedures or transplants.
- Experts report rising COPD prevalence among women, including more cases in non‑smokers and earlier onset with more frequent or severe symptoms.
- Occupational and environmental exposures are significant drivers, with NIOSH flagging higher risks in jobs such as auto work, housecleaning and farm work.