In recognition of World COPD Day today, Philips is embarking on a survey that will evaluate key issues affecting those living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The survey, which will be launched in its first phase in a number of countries, included the U.S., U.K. and Germany, aims to uncover some of the day-to-day physical, emotional and psychological challenges that people living with COPD face. The manufacturer will use this information to help develop its next-generation of disease management solutions.
Philips reports that it expects findings to be available in early 2015.
“COPD is highly prevalent, but few people know how serious the condition is or have information at their fingertips to make decisions about when they should talk to their doctor,” said Eli Diacopoulos, general manager of respiratory care for Philips Respironics. “Today, on World COPD Day, and every day, Philips is working to raise awareness of COPD among both patients and physicians and is committed to developing solutions to help better manage COPD across the entire health continuum.”
According to the World Health Organization, worldwide, chronic diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, cancers, diabetes and COPD account for more 63 percent of deaths annually. The World Economic Forum estimates the global economic impact of these chronic diseases could total $47 trillion over the next 20 years.
In the United States, more than 12 million adults have been diagnosed with COPD, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports as the country’s third leading cause of death. Furthermore, as of Oct. 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has begun to financially penalize hospitals if 30-day readmission rates for COPD are higher than expected – making proactive management of patients with COPD a critical issue for healthcare providers.
An annual event organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), World COPD Day aims to improve awareness and care of COPD around the world. The 2014 event is focusing on the theme “It’s Not Too Late.”
