Thousands in Lothian with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease going undiagnosed

Miles Briggs MSP has tabled a motion in recognition of World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day today (21 November 2018).

Miles Briggs, Scottish Conservative Lothian MSP, said: “I was very glad when I found out that the theme for this year’s COPD day is diagnosis.

“COPD affects thousands of people in Lothian and with up to two thirds of people with COPD undiagnosed there will be thousand more who have it and do not know.

“Screening and early diagnosis mean that the optimal treatment can be provided and can significantly improve a person’s quality of life.

“I strongly encourage anyone in Lothian who has any trouble with their breathing to go to their GP to be checked for COPD.

Joseph Carter, Head of British Lung Foundation Scotland, said: “The British Lung Foundation are grateful to Miles Briggs MSP for his support for early diagnosis for COPD on World COPD Day.

“For people living with COPD, day-to-day tasks like walking to the shops and making a cup of tea become a major struggle. With COPD accounting for 6% of deaths annually in Scotland, spotting the early warning signs of COPD is vital to improving quality of life for patients.

“Feeling breathless doing everyday tasks is not normal and a sign that your lungs may be affected by COPD. If you regularly find yourself out of breath, make an appointment to see your GP – it only takes a few minutes and it could change your life.”

6% of deaths annually in Scotland figure is taken from the latest available statistics from the National Registers for Scotland on leading causes of death in Scotland:https://www.nrscotland.gov.uk/statistics-and-data/statistics/scotlands-facts/leading-causes-of-death-in-scotland.

Motion Number: S5M-14815
Lodged By: Miles Briggs
Date Lodged: 19/11/2018

Title: World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day, 21 November 2018

Motion Text:

That the Parliament recognises World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day on 21 November 2018; notes that this year’s world COPD day theme is diagnosis; notes that COPD is a progressive and long-term lung condition without a cure, which currently affects a recorded 136,200 people in Scotland, with many more people who are undiagnosed; understands that up to two-thirds of people with COPD remain undiagnosed and, without optimal treatment, progressive lung disease reduces their quality of life; recognises the need for early diagnosis and screening to ensure that those affected by COPD receive the treatment that they need; notes that, with the right support, it is possible to live well and self-manage the condition, and commends the British Lung Foundation for the work that it does to raise awareness of COPD and helping to ensure that people across Scotland get the treatment and support that they deserve.