Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, yet it remains significantly under-researched and under-prioritised. This chronic lung condition, which causes irreversible damage to the airways, impedes airflow and leads to breathing difficulties. While often associated with smoking, COPD can also be triggered by factors like air pollution, a concern for an estimated 99% of the global population.
Despite its prevalence and substantial impact on individuals, families, and healthcare systems, COPD has historically been overshadowed by other prominent diseases. A 2024 global study highlighted the disparity in funding, with COPD receiving less than 2% of the research funding allocated to cancer. The financial burden of COPD is equally alarming, with a projected global cost of £3.3 trillion between 2020 and 2050.
This lack of attention can be attributed to several factors, including a misconception that COPD is solely a consequence of smoking. This perception often leads to self-blame and stigma, hindering early diagnosis and intervention. Moreover, the varied nature of symptoms, including persistent cough, excessive mucus production, and shortness of breath, can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
"Many people don't realise their cough is a serious problem," explains Dr Nicola Hanania, Professor of Medicine-Pulmonary at Baylor College of Medicine. "They think their exercise limitations are just part of ageing."
The consequences of underdiagnosis extend beyond the individual. The progressive nature of COPD can lead to a downward spiral of declining lung function, recurrent exacerbations, hospitalisations, and ultimately, increased mortality. This cycle also significantly burdens healthcare systems, with nearly 70% of COPD-related healthcare costs linked to hospital admissions and readmissions.
Dr Yamo Deniz, Vice President, Global Medical Affairs & Head of Immunology and Inflammation Global Medical Franchise at Regeneron, highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of COPD: "We are now realising that COPD is a heterogeneous disease... not everybody will have the same disease process."
Dr Deniz underscores the limitations of current standard-of-care therapies, which primarily address symptoms but fail to tackle the underlying inflammation. This, in turn, contributes to the high incidence of recurrent exacerbations.
Manuela Buxo, Global Head of Immunology at Sanofi, emphasizes the broader societal impact: "COPD progressively drains the welfare and resources of patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems across the world."
Recognising the critical need for increased research and awareness, global healthcare companies Sanofi and Regeneron are collaborating to investigate the multifaceted implications of COPD and develop solutions to improve patient outcomes. This collaborative effort signifies a growing commitment to addressing this often-overlooked public health crisis.
Moving forward, the future of COPD research hinges on a more comprehensive understanding of the disease, its variations, and the development of targeted treatments. As Dr Hanania highlights, "We have a new outlook on this old disease."
This renewed focus holds promise for those living with COPD, offering hope for improved symptom management, reduced exacerbations, and ultimately, a better quality of life. With increased awareness, research, and collaboration, the global burden of COPD can be effectively addressed, ensuring that this debilitating disease receives the attention it deserves.
