As World COPD Day approaches on 19 November, there is growing concern that many Western Australians may be living with undiagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD); one of the state's most under-recognised respiratory health challenges - which is 2.2 times more likely to impact Indigenous people.

Nationally, about 638,000 Australians - 2.5 per cent of the population - were estimated to be living with COPD in 2022.

For First Nations people, self-reported prevalence was more than five per cent, making them about 2.2 times more likely to report COPD than non-Indigenous Australians.

In Western Australia, Respiratory Care WA is working together with Arche Health via the Wangen Murduin Integrated Team Care (ITC) Program, providing culturally safe outreach and lung-function screening for First Nations people.

Geoffrey, a proud Noongar man, was diagnosed with COPD after undergoing a lung function test conducted by Respiratory Care WA's community outreach team through program.

"I had never heard of the condition until my GP sent me for chest X-rays and diagnosed me with emphysema," the 72 year-old said.

"Since receiving a COPD diagnosis and help from Respiratory Care WA, I've been able to stay active and involved in my community, something I struggled with before.

"For anyone living with a respiratory condition, my advice is: don't give up, keep pushing for the right diagnosis, and remember that support is always available."

This year's World COPD Day theme, 'Short of Breath? Think COPD', urges everyone to step into the shoes of those living with COPD and pay attention to the early warning signs.

Respiratory Care WA Acting chief executive Rael Rivers said early awareness and diagnosis are vital, particularly in First Nations communities, where the prevalence of COPD is around twice that of non-Indigenous Australians.

"Many people don't understand what COPD is, how it develops, or how it can be managed," she said.

"COPD can develop from long-term exposure to dust, fumes, tobacco smoke, or other pollutants. While there is currently no cure, early diagnosis and treatment give people the best chance to slow disease progression, prevent other health issues, and continue living life to the fullest."

Although COPD is most common in people aged 45 and over, there is growing recognition of diagnoses in younger adults.

In 2021-22 there were approximately 53,000 hospitalisations in Australia for people aged 45+ where COPD was the principal diagnosis; roughly 500 hospitalisations per 100,000 population.

Common symptoms of COPD include: Shortness of breath; wheezing; persistent cough; and fatigue.

Ms Rivers encouraged anyone experiencing shortness of breath, especially those with long-term exposure to pollutants to speak with their GP and request a referral for testing.

Respiratory Care WA offers bulk-billed spirometry, a simple, non-invasive lung function test that is essential for an accurate COPD diagnosis.

More information about the condition and its treatment is available online.