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Only 3% worried about lung disease, despite it being
a leading cause of death. Data released by the Forum
of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) has
revealed a worrying lack of understanding and
concern among the public about the world’s biggest
killer, lung disease, which now claims the lives of
almost 4 million people a year.
PRM images can help distinguish healthy lung areas (green) from those with early-stage damage (yellow) and emphysema (red). Image courtesy of University of Michigan Center for Molecular Imaging.
Research conducted by YouGov among over 2000 adults
in Europe revealed that, despite the high incidence
of lung disease, people are far more worried about
cancer, heart disease and stroke. This lack of
concern is even more striking as data shows that
while the other major diseases have been decreasing
as a cause of death in the last three decades, death
due to COPD has doubled in the same period.
As well as underestimating the impact of lung
disease, the research reveals a lack of
understanding about how to manage it. Despite the
fact that simple lung tests like spirometry can help
detect conditions such as COPD and asthma before the
onset of debilitating symptoms, the survey revealed
that the majority, 60%, of respondents have never
had their lungs tested.
The research also revealed that 80% thought that
those with lung disease were unable to undertake
even moderate exercise like swimming or going to the
gym. However, in reality, physical activity can help
to manage and improve the symptoms of lung disease
such as breathlessness, even in the most severe
cases.
With only 27% of those already suffering from a lung
disease claiming to have discussed the importance of
physical activity with their doctor, FIRS is
encouraging current patients to approach healthcare
practitioners to talk about the benefits of exercise.
President of the European Respiratory Society (ERS)
which is a founding member of FIRS, Klaus Rabe, said:
“Respiratory physicians understand more and more
about the importance of exercise but our research
confirms ignorance is still out there. Even gentle
walking for those with severe disease can help in
improving lung capacity and general well being and
we must get this message through to patients”.
The research was conducted on behalf of the ELF by
YouGov. YouGov spoke to 2072 UK adults from 18th -
21st May 2012.
For more information
ERS
(MDN)
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