Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, often underdiagnosed, and debilitating disease.  It is fourth leading cause of death worldwide and is estimated to be the third leading cause by 2020¹, and yet, there is still a lack of awareness and a social stigma associated with the disease. In fact, only about half of the estimated 210 million people with the disease have been officially diagnosed. Overall costs of COPD to an economy amounts to approximately $2.4 billion.²

Philips is committed to sustaining the education and moral support of patients, families and care givers impacted by COPD. Recently Philips joined forces with the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) to support World COPD Day.

Each year, World COPD Day is organized by GOLD in collaboration with healthcare professionals and COPD patient groups throughout the world. Since 2002, World COPD has promoted education and awareness about COPD to help enhance care across the globe.