JEFFERSON CITY — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 140,000 Americans died from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in 2023, making COPD the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States.
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“COPD is a progressive lung condition that affects millions of people in the United States and around the world,” said Dr. Blake King, a Pulmonary and Critical Medicine Physician at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital. “Despite its prevalence, many individuals remain unaware of its symptoms, risk factors and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.”
Chronic airway damage and irritation can lead to narrowing airways, which makes it difficult to get air out of the lungs. While family history can lead to a COPD diagnosis, smoking easily remains the top risk factor.
“Symptoms include wheezing, chronic productive cough and shortness of breath,” Dr. King said. “Symptoms can range from very mild to severe and debilitating.”
Dr. King says treatment is based on symptoms and individual goals. He says quitting smoking should be the first step.
“I tell my patients all the time that quitting smoking is one of the top things you can do for overall health, not just from a COPD perspective,” Dr. King said.
Inhalers are also commonly used to treat COPD. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and proper nutrition can also help.
Dr. King also encourages people to keep up with vaccines. COPD can increase the risk of complications from viral infections like the flu and COVID-19.
There is no cure for COPD. Dr. King says while it may be a lifelong condition, it does not have to define your life.
“The goal I want for a lot of my patients is to be able to do what they want to do during the day without their breathing keeping them from doing it,” Dr. King said.
“With early intervention, ongoing care and a commitment to healthy habits, individuals with COPD can breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.”