Trends in the Prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years - United States, 2011-2021

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death in the United States. Overall COPD prevalence declined during 1999-2011. Trends in COPD prevalence during the previous decade have not been reported. CDC analyzed 2011-2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data to assess trends and differences in self-reported physician-diagnosed COPD prevalence among U.S. adults aged ≥18 years. Age-standardized prevalence of COPD did not change significantly from 2011 (6.1%) to 2021 (6.0%). Prevalence was stable for most states and subgroups; however, it decreased significantly among adults aged 18-44 years (average annual percent change [AAPC] = -2.0%) and increased significantly among those aged ≥75 years (AAPC = 1.3%), those living in micropolitan counties (0.8%), and among current (1.5%) or former (1.2%) smokers. COPD prevalence remained elevated in the following groups: women, adults aged ≥65 years, those with a lower education level, unable to work, living in rural areas, and who ever smoked. Evidence-based strategies, especially those tailored for adults disproportionately affected, can reduce COPD prevalence, and address the continued need for prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and management.

FIGURE

Prevalence* of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among adults aged ≥18 years, by selected characteristics — Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, United States, 2011–2021 Abbreviation: GED = general educational development certificate. *Estimates were calculated using sampling weights and estimates by education level, urban-rural status, and smoking status were age-standardized using the 2000 Census Bureau projected U.S. adult population with five age groups (18–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–64, and ≥65 years) Distribution #9. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/statnt/statnt20.pdf