Survey Uncovers Hidden COPD Epidemic and Urgent Gaps in Care

COPD Action Alliance calls for policy reform as survey reveals gaps in care, coverage and education

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new national survey released by the COPD Action Alliance reveals that patients who are diagnosed with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) face serious challenges accessing treatment due to insurance barriers, high out‑of‑pocket costs and limited availability of care.

The survey, which gathered insights from 250 individuals diagnosed with or suspecting they have COPD, underscores the urgent need for improved screening, expanded treatment access and comprehensive policy change.

"Too many Americans are living with COPD in the dark—undiagnosed, unsupported and underserved," said Sarah Hoffman, Coalition Director for the COPD Action Alliance. "This survey should be a wake‑up call for policymakers. Patients want action—better coverage, better access and better awareness. We owe it to the 30 million Americans with COPD to listen and act."

Key findings include:

• 42 percent of respondents suspect they have COPD but have never been formally diagnosed.
  
  
• Nearly 1 in 3 patients reported facing insurance‑related barriers to getting the medications or treatments they need.
  
  
• 79 percent said navigating the health care system is difficult.
  
  
• Only 40 percent correctly identified COPD as a leading cause of death, underscoring the need for stronger public awareness and education.
  
  
• Patients ranked top policy priorities as strengthening health care coverage, ensuring access to treatment, increasing research funding and expanding pulmonary rehabilitation.

"These responses paint a clear picture," said Hoffman. "Patients are telling us where the system is failing—and where we must improve. Now it's time for lawmakers and health leaders to step up."

The COPD Action Alliance urges decision‑makers at every level to prioritize COPD policy solutions, including improved education campaigns, affordable access to medications and oxygen and eliminating unnecessary insurance delays.

To read the full report, visit https://copdactionalliance.org.

About the COPD Action Alliance

The COPD Action Alliance is an advocacy coalition that helps to increase awareness, support grassroots advocacy and improve COPD policy.

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SOURCE COPD Action Alliance