Reducing the Burden of COPD Through Policy

Advocates discussed disease burden, management and policy solutions on Capitol Hill WASHINGTON , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of World COPD Day, the COPD Action Alliance held a Capitol Hill Briefing on Nov. 20, focusing on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a debilitating illness that ranks as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States .

This briefing offered valuable insights into the evolving landscape of COPD. Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12) kicked off the event with a heartfelt video greeting followed by a panel of patient advocates and experts discussing: Barriers to effective treatment Educational gaps limiting understanding Policies to better support COPD patients In addition, Rep.

Young Kim (CA-40) delivered a powerful floor speech recognizing November as COPD Awareness Month. Urgency for Reform The fight for 30 million Americans living with COPD continues, with only 17 million diagnosed. Reform is needed not only to improve patient health but also to reduce the economic burden on patients and the health care system.

The projected medical costs attributable to COPD care will increase to $60.5 billion in 2029. STATEMENT FROM JOSIE COOPER , EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALLIANCE FOR PATIENT ACCESS: "We're honored to host this Capitol Hill briefing alongside Right2Breathe, CHEST, and COPD Foundation to spotlight COPD on World COPD Day.

By championing patient-centered reforms, we can reshape COPD care and improve the quality of life for millions of Amer.