A new study published in the Journal of the COPD Foundation suggests that women with a shorter reproductive lifespan are at greater risk of developing bronchiectasis. The study of nearly 97,000 postmenopausal women found that hormone therapy use was associated with a 19% greater risk of bronchiectasis.
The BEST-BE observational study will track the incidence of pulmonary exacerbations, health-related quality of life changes, and adverse events in adults with non-CF bronchiectasis. The study aims to deepen evidence on brensocatib's long-term efficacy and safety profile.
A new study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that nearly one-third of COPD patients demonstrate unacceptable inhaler technique, leading to smaller lung function improvements. Instructing patients to hold their breath for 5-10 seconds improves acute bronchodilation.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association leveraged registry data for improved research and clinical practice, benefiting patients with bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial disease. The Registry supports collaborative research and planning of multi-center trials, aiming to elevate patient outcomes.
Research suggests that inhaled vitamin D can protect against dust, pollution, and pathogens in the lungs, potentially improving outcomes for those with chronic lung disease. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and explore the therapeutic benefits of direct lung delivery.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 25, 2026
A new study reveals gaps in wildfire smoke education among people living with COPD. Researchers found that many individuals rely on smartphone apps and online information for air quality updates, but lack knowledge on mitigation strategies and real-time guidance from healthcare teams.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network now spans 62 centers across the US, offering specialized care and support for individuals with bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease. The network aims to improve quality of life for those affected by these conditions.
A phone-based teach-to-goal program improved correct inhaler use in Medicare Advantage beneficiaries with COPD. The study found that nearly 40% of participants used their inhaler incorrectly initially, but after the program, only about 7% were incorrect, resulting in a significant reduction.
A recent study found that people with higher isoflavone consumption experienced fewer breathing-related symptoms and improved lung health. Isoflavones, commonly found in legumes and soy-based foods, may play a key role in reducing COPD symptoms.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2026
New studies reveal that medication nonadherence in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is often caused by affordability and limited understanding of medications. This can lead to quicker lung function decline, more frequent exacerbations, and a higher symptom burden.
A new study reveals that neighborhood characteristics, including poverty and lower educational attainment, are associated with higher COPD-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Community-level interventions targeting these risk factors can help improve quality of life and reduce acute care use.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026
Two abstracts using Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry data were presented at CHEST 2025, focusing on advancing excellence in pulmonary medicine. The registry provides a national database for collaborative research and multi-center clinical trials.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network has accepted 25 new sites, expanding access to high-quality, specialized patient care for bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. The network aims to enhance care and improve quality of life for patients living with these conditions.
Two abstracts using Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry data were presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress, highlighting advances in respiratory medicine and science. The Registry collects clinical data from individuals with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease.
A new study shows that implementing a COPD care pathway can lead to shorter hospital stays, more referrals to pulmonary rehabilitation, and improved standardization of care. The study found that patients treated with the pathway had better outcomes, including being discharged home rather than to a facility.
People with schizophrenia are more likely to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to shared genetic, socioeconomic, and environmental factors. The lack of adequate medical care also contributes to the under-diagnosis of COPD in this population.
A study found that patients who communicate with their providers have better disease management, reducing exacerbations and hospital visits. The study suggests increasing conversations about disease education and self-management strategies can improve quality of life.
Four abstracts using Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry data were presented at the World Bronchiectasis Conference, highlighting the importance of collaborative research and planning for multi-center clinical trials. The registry provides valuable clinical data from individuals with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and nontuber...
More than 1 million people worldwide are diagnosed with bronchiectasis, a chronic lung disease characterized by enlarged airways. Global partners unite for World Bronchiectasis Day to share resources on self-management, mental health, and nutrition to improve care and quality of life for those affected.
A new study found significant variation in COPD prevalence and burden across states and insurance types, with West Virginia topping the list at 143 cases per 1,000 insured individuals and Utah ranking last at 44. The study also revealed high mortality rates among people with COPD in several states.
A new report published in the COPD Foundation's journal found virtual pulmonary rehabilitation to be a safe and effective alternative for people with COPD who require supplemental oxygen. The program improved clinical outcomes and quality of life for participants, demonstrating its potential to increase access to care.
A new study found that increased perceived stress can lead to worsened respiratory symptoms and decreased quality of life in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study also examined the association between stress and platelet activation, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateApr 29, 2025
A new study suggests that statins can reduce chest muscle loss in smokers, while aspirin may contribute to increased muscle loss. The study examined data from 4,191 participants and found that statins protected pectoralis muscle area and density, whereas aspirin led to decreased muscle mass.
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network facilitates access to specialized care and support for hundreds of thousands of people with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. The network aims to improve quality of life and advance a cure for these conditions.
A new study found that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and arthritis have a significantly increased risk of death compared to those with only arthritis. The research analyzed data from over 11,000 individuals in the US and discovered a strong association between COPD and mortality rates in people with arthritis.
A new study highlights the importance of diagnosing depression and anxiety in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to address gaps in care. The study found that fewer than half of those meeting the criteria for a depression or anxiety diagnosis were receiving mental health counseling or using antidepressants.
According to the CDC's latest report, COPD ranks as the sixth leading cause of death in the US, claiming over 30 million Americans. The disease affects women more than men, with a higher burden of deaths among females.
A new study published in the COPD Foundation journal found that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at a higher risk of falls and related injuries when taking commonly prescribed medications. The likelihood of falls increases relative to the number of fall-risk increasing drugs used.
Additional research is required to explore the relationship between COPD and metabolic syndrome, focusing on outcomes, intervention trials, and health services research. This will help shift from a COPD-focused approach to an integrated care approach considering all comorbidities.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 9, 2025
A recent study published in the Journal of the COPD Foundation found that childhood smoking before age 15 significantly increases a person's risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) later in life. The research examined a nationally representative sample of adults and accounted for secondhand smoke exposure, highl...
The COPD Foundation's PIVOT initiative aims to integrate patient-inspired health concepts into clinical trials for COPD. This framework improves research study design, enhances treatment benefit communication, and accelerates access to new therapies.
Researchers are conducting a multi-year study to understand small airway abnormalities and their role in emphysema development. The SPIROMICS Study of Early Disease Progression (SOURCE) aims to provide novel insights into COPD progression and inform the development of new therapies.
A new editorial suggests using syndemic theory approach to address disparities in COPD treatment, emphasizing the importance of considering comorbidities and socioeconomic factors. The authors aim to promote holistic care and increase research participation from minority populations.
A recent study found that approximately two-thirds of inhalers used by patients hospitalized with COPD were misused, leading to inadequate medication delivery and increased exacerbations. Regular therapeutic education and proper inhaler technique can improve health outcomes.
A new perspective article highlights the impact of wildfires on individuals with COPD and asthma. The five-part Population Health Approach, developed by the University of California, Davis Health, identifies high-risk patients and provides interventions to mitigate poor air quality's negative effects.
The COPD Foundation's new Lung Health Check platform offers a quick assessment of breathing problems and provides personalized reports with suggestions for prevention and management. The resource aims to inform, educate, and empower individuals to take control of their lung health.