OLR Report 2015-R-0127 answers a series of questions on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) that address (1) screening and diagnostic methods, (2) its prevalence and associated health care costs in Connecticut, and (3) local and national advocacy organizations.
COPD generally refers to a group of diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow limitation and breathing-related issues. The disease is progressive, and impairs a person’s breathing ability over time. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, and often cause a decrease in a person’s productivity and quality of life.
Click here to read the full report.
