Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease that makes it difficult for air to move into and out of your lungs. It causes the airways of your lungs to be inflamed and become blocked or “obstructed”. People with COPD suffer from chronic bronchitis, emphysema or both, making breathing difficult.1

Although there are other causes of COPD, cigarette smoking is the major known risk factor.1

Over 1.5 million Canadians have been diagnosed with COPD. However, a recent report shows that 1.6 million Canadians may have COPD but remain undiagnosed.1

Studies estimate that only half of patients with COPD have been diagnosed.2