Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the impact occurs earlier than we think

Abstract

Objective: To determine the socioeconomic, demographic, and clinical utilization characteristics of the "typical" patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Study design: Retrospective analysis of a large dataset of patients enrolled in a disease management program for COPD.

Patients and methods: Patients were 2129 individuals with a diagnosis of COPD. Information was collected at the time these individuals entered the National Jewish Medical and Research Center disease management program for COPD.

Results: The data show that the typical stereotype of a COPD patient (ie, elderly and unemployed) may not apply to a large proportion of patients already diagnosed with COPD. Almost half (49.7%) were less than 65 years old. In addition, 46.1% were employed and missed an average of 4.6 days of work in the previous 6 months.

Conclusions: The cost of COPD to individuals and to society is increasing. Yet it is a potentially preventable and treatable disease. Early detection and intervention are essential.