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COPD statistics paint a grim picture of its impact:
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Recent research shows that up to 1 in 6 people over 45 have COPD,5 affecting over 1 million Australians
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COPD is the fifth biggest killer of Australians6
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COPD is the 3rd7 leading cause of human and economic burden of disease (following coronary heart disease and stroke).
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Disability of COPD is viewed as similar to paraplegia and AIDS.
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The estimated direct and indirect costs of COPD are $800-900million annually.8
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COPD goes largely unrecognised and under-diagnosed. Less than 25% of the study participants who were found to have COPD had been diagnosed by a doctor.
References
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5.
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Abramson MJ. Respiratory symptoms and lung function in older people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. MJA 4 July 2005; 183(1):S23-S25
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6.
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AIHW. Chronic Diseases Mortality.
Found at: http://aihw.gov.au/cdarf/data_pages/mortality/index.cfm
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7.
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Mathers C, Vos T, Stephenson C. 1999 The Burden of Disease and Injury in Australia. ISBN 1-74024-019-7. AIHW Cat. No. PHE-17
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8.
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Crockett AJ, Cranston JM, Moss JR. Economic Case Statement. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Australian Lung Foundation, Sept 2002
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Content updated March 10, 2008
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 02 August 2008 )
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COPD 
