On World COPD Day (November 19, 2014), the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) is mobilizing its members to raise awareness of the disease and help prevent the risk factors that cause it.

210 million people have COPD worldwide, causing the death of at least 2.9 million people each year. It is the sixth major cause of death and disability in low- and middle-income countries and is projected to be the third most common cause of death by 2020.

World COPD Day, which is observed in November each year, is an opportunity to highlight the impact of COPD to governments, politicians, funding agencies, clinicians, public health personnel and also the general public.

The Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease and on World COPD Day, the alliance hopes to highlight some of key risk factors, diagnosis, and essential management components of the disease.

ATS President Tom Ferkol, MD said: “COPD is a global killer. It is a major cause of death and disability in low- and middle-income countries and is projected to be the third-leading cause of death by 2020. We have joined together with other members of the Forum to highlight the impact of COPD to the public and policymakers.

“Understanding the risk factors for COPD, raising awareness of the importance of spirometry, and increasing access to available treatments are just some of the ways we can tackle COPD and improve the outlook for future generations.”