COPD is the fifth most common cause of death in North America today and is the only leading cause of death that is rising in prevalence. This means that it not only impacts on many lives of individuals and their families, but also has an astounding impact on health care costs and services.

In 1990-91, $62.2 million dollars were spent on hospital costs in Canada due to emphysema and chronic bronchitis; approx. 6,000 people died of COPD over the same time period.

Based on 1988-89 data, the direct medical costs of adult asthma in Canada are estimated at $393 million annually. When we add in indirect costs due to time lost at work, and short and long term disability, the costs rise t o $591 million annually. An average of 58 asthma-related deaths per year occurred during the 1980s.

Introduction Index

Definition of COPD