THREE-QUARTERS of people do not know what COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is even though it is the fourth leading cause of death here, a new survey revealed yesterday.

It is estimated that in excess of 110,000 people have COPD in Ireland. However, the exact figure is unknown as it continues to be an under-diagnosed condition. It accounts for one-in-20 deaths in Ireland.

COPD is a disease that causes the lungs' airways to become blocked, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It includes two major respiratory disorders -- chronic bronchitis and emphysema and is characterised by shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and increased phlegm.

Dr John Faul, respiratory consultant in Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown, said: "This research reveals that there is little understanding around Ireland's fourth-leading cause of death, and even when people have heard of COPD there is much confusion.

"While this is a very treatable condition, there is no cure and it can be extremely debilitating with symptoms such as breathlessness restricting a patient's ability to perform even normal everyday activities.

"A person with COPD can often complain of having difficulty 'catching their breath', which can be very distressing."

He added: "The main message is don't smoke -- it directly causes COPD among many other diseases. In addition I would advise people to ask their GP or healthcare provider about getting their lungs tested -- spirometry is a painless test and an excellent way to screen and diagnose the disease. COPD is not going away and prevalence will only increase."

- Eilish O'Regan