Variation in COPD Prevalence and Disease Impact Across US States

Recent research highlights significant differences in the prevalence and burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) across various U.S. states. This comprehensive study examined insurance claims data from Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers to analyze how COPD impacts populations differently depending on geographic location and insurance type. In 2021, around 11.7 million insured individuals had diagnosed COPD, with notable variation in prevalence rates—from West Virginia, with the highest rate of 143 per 1,000 insured persons, to Utah, with the lowest at 44 per 1,000. The analysis further revealed that there were approximately 1.8 million hospitalizations and 1.4 million emergency visits related to COPD nationwide within the same year.

The study also explored mortality rates among Medicare-insured individuals with COPD, finding that 12 states, along with the District of Columbia, experience higher than average all-cause mortality but tend to have lower average ages. These insights underscore the uneven distribution of COPD’s impact, emphasizing the need for targeted public health strategies.

COPD, an inflammatory lung disease that includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can be caused by genetics, smoking, pollution, and other environmental irritants. The COPD Foundation estimates that over 30 million Americans live with the disease, making it the fourth leading cause of death globally. Recognizing regional differences in disease prevalence and healthcare utilization can help shape interventions to reduce the burden on both patients and the healthcare system.

This study, published in the March 2025 issue of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, aims to fill gaps in understanding COPD’s distribution across states and insurance types, providing a foundation for more effective public health responses.

For more details, please see the original study by Carol Bazell et al. source.