Respiratory

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a common chronic condition which is responsible for early mortality and places significant demand on NHS services. It is characterised by a progressive decline in lung function and in health status, accompanied by repeated acute exacerbations where there is a sustained worsening of symptoms, commonly increased breathlessness, coughing or sputum production (NICE, 2023). These exacerbations can often be treated in primary care however some may need more intensive management in hospital. Frequent exacerbations are a risk factor for faster decline in lung function and poorer quality of life outcomes. The main risk factors are smoking and repeated exposure to poor quality air (NICE, 2023).

COPD is the second most common lung disease in the UK, affecting around 2% of the whole population and 4.5% of those aged over 40 (British Lung Foundation, 2023). Prevalence of COPD has been increasing steadily in England as well as Kent and Medway over the last 20 years. Your chances of being diagnosed with COPD increase with age, if you are male, and if you live in a more deprived area (British Lung Foundation, 2023).