COPD, a chronic respiratory disease that remains largely unknown, is claiming more and more victims. Early diagnosis, a major challenge, was highlighted at the 29th French-Language Pulmonology Congress, because there are solutions to limit its progression!
A disease that progresses silently
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, causes more than 10,000 deaths per year and affects more than 3 million people. But at least two-thirds of them are undiagnosed. The disease, caused in 8 out of 10 cases by smoking, along with environmental factors such as pollution and secondhand smoke, is characterized by a progressive obstruction of the airways and develops silently.
The symptoms—cough, phlegm, recurrent bronchitis, and even shortness of breath—are often dismissed by patients who adapt their lifestyles. The disease will then progress and worsen, potentially leading to chronic respiratory failure, which can become debilitating and severely impact daily life.
Early detection is key! So, if you smoke, cough, spit up phlegm, are short of breath, or tired, don't take it lightly and talk to your doctor. To help you determine if you are potentially at risk, take the first step on Ameli.fr, the French National Health Insurance website, as advised by Professor Nicolas Roche, head of the pulmonology department at Cochin Hospital.
It's very simple The COPD Test and its 6 questions will help you determine if you are at risk or already affected. The goal? To encourage you to see your doctor as soon as possible. A spirometry test will allow for early diagnosis of COPD, followed by measures to slow the progression of the disease, its impact, and its complications: smoking cessation support, regular physical activity, vaccinations, and medication.
Think you might be affected? Get tested as soon as possible and consult your doctor based on the results!
 Pascale Pommier de Santi
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04/02/2025 | 
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