Nearly two-thirds of Australian ex-smokers over 45 are unaware of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to research released today to coincide with World COPD Day.
The research found that awareness of the disease is lower in smokers and ex-smokers and that 60 per cent of those with a smoking history were not concerned about experiencing the common symptoms of COPD.
One in three ex-smokers aged 45 or over would not be worried if they experienced a persistent cough on most days. Around 20 per cent said they would not be concerned if they developed an ongoing productive cough with phlegm, and 16 per cent stated they would not be concerned about experiencing shortness of breath more quickly than others their age.
"These findings are significant for health care professionals working with people with a history of smoking, because they illustrate that such patients are often unlikely to proactively raise worrying health issues," said Professor Peter Firth, chair of the ALF's COPD national program.
"It is important for health care professionals to be proactive in identifying early symptoms of COPD such as breathlessness or an ongoing cough, as ex-smokers are at a higher risk of developing COPD than people who have never smoked, even if they may not recognise it.
"While giving up smoking is the best step that Australians can take to reduce their risk of developing COPD, it is important for ex-smokers to realise that they are still at risk as a result of their smoking history. So it is important for them to remain vigilant and recognise symptoms should they develop," he said.
Prof Firth said COPD usually affects those who have previously smoked or who continue to smoke, but if the condition is identified early, people are able to take steps to help them breathe easier and improve their quality of life.
"It is important that health care professionals recommend a spirometry test to assess patient risk and encourage their patients with COPD to take the necessary steps to effectively manage the disease - such as undertaking pulmonary rehabilitation or via access to medication."
COPD is Australia's fifth biggest killer, with one in six Australians over 45 affected.