COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The damage caused by COPD reduces the ability to move air in and out of the lungs. Over time, as the disease worsens it becomes harder and harder to breathe. These reductions in lung function can disrupt sleep, reduce concentration and alertness, cause activity limitations, and reduce quality of life.

It is important to prevent and slow the progression of COPD.

Approximately 38,000 Vermonters (or 7% adults) have COPD, with rates increasing since 2013 (BRFSS 2013-2022).

Vermonters with COPD were three times more likely to have their activities limited compared to those without COPD (57% vs. 19%), (BRFSS, 2014).

Additionally, in Vermont, there were over 3,000 visits to Vermont Emergency Departments where COPD was the main complaint (BRFSS, 2014). 

COPD is the fifth most common cause of death in Vermont with a rate of 55.4 deaths per 100,000 residents (Vermont 2020 Vital Statistics Report).
 

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People with a History of Respiratory Conditions: Individuals with uncontrolled asthma or a history of respiratory illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia have a 3 times higher risk of developing COPD. Vermont has among the highest rates for adult asthma in the country with 12% of adults affected, and over 60% report having “uncontrolled” asthma, meaning many Vermonters at are at high risk for developing COPD. Among Vermonters with asthma, 21% have already been diagnosed with COPD.

Smokers: Smoking is another leading cause of COPD in Vermont, and the number one cause across the nation. Approximately 20% of Vermonters who smoke have COPD. Additionally, growing up in a household with a family history of smoking and vaping with long term exposure to secondhand smoke and vapors puts many Vermonters at an even higher risk of developing COPD. Smoking is responsible for 80% of COPD-related deaths. Given 52% of Vermonters with COPD currently smoke, this risk of COPD-related death remains high. 

Quitting smoking can greatly reduce the risks of developing COPD. Of those who ever smoked – but are not currently smoking (42% of Vermont adults), 13% have COPD, versus the 52% of those with COPD and continue to smoke.  

Low Socioeconomic and Education Status: People with less education and lower incomes are almost three times more likely to have COPD. Additionally, those who struggle with food insecurity also have higher rates of COPD.

People with Disabilities: Vermont adults living with a disability are more than twice as likely to have COPD as those without a disability.

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People in Certain Occupations: Some occupations may put Vermonters at higher risks of developing COPD, including those with heavy exposure to dust at work, chemicals, and other indoor or outdoor air pollution. For instance, Vermont has military veterans, National Guard members, firefighters, industrial and construction workers, quarry or marble workers, farmers, and certain artisans all particularly vulnerable to harmful exposures.

Older Vermonters: COPD is more common among older adults. Vermont has the fourth largest share of population in the 65+ age group when compared to other U.S. states and the third oldest median age of 43 years old (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019), suggesting an elevated concern for COPD in Vermont.

Rural Residents: Rural residents show signs of being at higher risk of COPD in Vermont possibly related to agriculture and farming, and lower access to healthcare. Vermont has the highest percentage of older adults in rural areas, with about 65% of people aged 65 and older living in rural areas intensifying this risk category. 

Injuries and Genetic Conditions: Individuals with certain genetic conditions, and brain or spinal cord injuries may also be at risk of developing COPD. These conditions may reduce lung function like a stroke can reduce body movement.

Individuals with Other Chronic Conditions: Vermonters with other chronic conditions are at higher risk of also developing COPD. For example, many individuals with arthritis, depression, asthma or cardiovascular disease (CVD), among other conditions have also developed COPD in Vermont.

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Unknown causes: Some people with none of these exposures or prior conditions may still get COPD. 

•    Shortness of breath
•    Activity limitation 
•    Lingering cough that brings up mucus
•    Missed workdays due to colds or bronchitis
•    Urgent care and emergency department visits due to difficulty breathing
•    Being in any one or more of the high-risk groups for COPD above

If you have any of the above Early Signs and Risk Factors for COPD AND you're in any of the risk groups, talk with your medical provider about periodic lung function testing to screen for COPD. An early diagnosis and reducing risk factors are key to empowering you and your family members to prevent COPD and slow its progression to ensure sustained quality of life and easy breathing. Visit this web page for more information: Vermonters and Families Impacted by COPD.