Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable lung disease which occurs when airflow in and out of the lungs is limited [27302]. COPD can occur when parts of the lung are damaged, mucus blocks the airways, so the airway lining becomes inflamed or swollen [44721]. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are types of COPD, and cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness and tiredness [27302][44721].

COPD develops gradually over time and can be a result of:

• genetic factors and early life events that affect the growth of the lung
• infections causing lung damage
• tobacco use including passive smoking (secondary)
• environmental pollution (e.g. dust, gas smoke).

As a leading respiratory disease among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, COPD is a major cause of illness and mortality among this population [42101][50170]. Although COPD is not curable, there are many strategies to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life [49186]. These strategies should include culturally safe care from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander context and perspective; increased funding for early detection, management and rehabilitation; the involvement of families in the management of COPD and the implementation of health promotion programs to increase the awareness of COPD [49568].