How much does COPD cost?: Socio-economic aspects of

COPD is expected to be the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2020, after heart disease and stroke. Experts point out that the number of people with COPD who have not yet received treatment is significantly higher than that of patients currently being treated for the condition. Studies demonstrate the enormous costs associated with COPD treatment, which naturally rise dramatically as the severity of the disease increases. There is also a discernible trend towards patients requiring treatment becoming increasingly younger, meaning they are, at least temporarily, unable to work. A large number of authors have addressed these issues. This book is a compilation of their findings, as well as an attempt to clarify whether potential savings can be expected through changes to health policy. This work was produced as part of my studies at the Vienna University of Economics and Business, within the Health Care Management programme, supported by the Vienna Hospital Association.