Chronic lower respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are a significant cause of death in the United States and around the world. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these diseases were the sixth leading cause of death in the United States in 2022, affecting millions of people.
COPD, the most well-known condition in this category, highlights the challenges of awareness, early detection, and effective management.
COPD is a group of conditions that include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These diseases primarily affect the lungs and make it hard to breathe. Common symptoms include persistent breathlessness, fatigue, and a chronic cough.
The primary causes of COPD are long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and even occupational hazards. Genetic factors can also play a role, particularly in cases where people develop the disease without clear environmental triggers.
Despite affecting more than 30 million Americans, about half of those living with COPD are unaware they have the disease. This lack of awareness poses a serious problem, as early diagnosis and management are critical to improving quality of life and slowing disease progression.
Unfortunately, awareness about COPD’s symptoms and risk factors remains low, making it a hidden health crisis.
In 2022, the number of deaths from chronic lower respiratory diseases increased by 3.5%, according to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics.
Women were slightly more affected, with 5% of all deaths among women attributed to these diseases, compared to 4% among men. These statistics underscore the growing burden of COPD and related conditions.
Globally, COPD is also a leading cause of death. Data from the World Health Organization in 2021 ranked it as the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. The disease’s prevalence and impact demonstrate the urgent need for better public awareness, preventive strategies, and access to care.
Dr. Jean Wright, CEO of the COPD Foundation, emphasizes the importance of increasing awareness and promoting early diagnosis. “Despite being a leading cause of death, many are unaware of the disease and its symptoms,” Dr. Wright says.
Efforts to educate the public about COPD could help more people recognize the warning signs and seek medical attention sooner, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.
The ten leading causes of death in the United States in 2022, as reported by the CDC, include:
- Diseases of the heart.
- Malignant neoplasms (cancers).
- Accidents (unintentional injuries).
- COVID-19.
- Cerebrovascular diseases (such as strokes).
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases.
- Alzheimer’s disease.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Kidney diseases (nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis).
- Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis.
These rankings highlight the major health challenges facing Americans and the importance of targeted health interventions.
The data for this report is derived from all death certificates filed in the United States in 2022 and follows the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). This comprehensive information provides valuable insights into health trends and the need for continued public health efforts.
COPD remains a critical public health issue. While treatments exist to help manage symptoms and slow disease progression, prevention remains key. Avoiding smoking and exposure to harmful pollutants, seeking regular medical check-ups, and improving air quality are essential steps to reducing the disease’s burden.
For those already affected, timely diagnosis and proper management can make a significant difference in living longer, healthier lives. Raising awareness and expanding access to care will be vital in combating this life-threatening condition.
If you care about lung health, please read studies about marijuana’s effects on lung health, and why some non-smokers get lung disease and some heavy smokers do not.
For more information about health, please see recent studies that olive oil may help you live longer, and vitamin D could help lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.
The research findings can be found here.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
