Navigating COPD in Rural America

1 in 5 Americans live in a rural area. Rural Americans face more health challenges than people living in cities and difficulties getting healthcare because of: Clinician shortages Hospital closings Long distances to get to hospitals, specialists and pharmacies Lack of public transportation These factors make it harder to live with COPD.What Is COPD? COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive lung condition that causes inflammation of the airways, making it hard to breathe. COPD is the 5th leading cause of death in the U.S. COPD in Rural Areas 1 in 12 of people in rural areas have COPD compared to 1 in 20 in urban areas. Compared to people who live in cities, people in rural areas are: 2x as likely to have COPD More likely to go to the hospital for COPD More likely to die from COPD Why COPD Is Worse in Rural Areas People in rural areas: Are more likely to smoke Have fewer stop-smoking programs Are more likely to work in industries that expose them to pollutants Live with more indoor pollution from burning wood or coal for heating or cooking Have more medical problems that can make COPD worse Have less money to afford medications to treat COPD Are more likely to...