The Zimbabwe NCDs Action Network says the global burden of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is too significant to ignore, urging policymakers to prioritize its diagnosis and management.
Speaking as Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating World COPD Day; a health advocate with the Zimbabwe NCDs Action Network, Jacob Ngwenya emphasized the importance of taking decisive action.
“The global cost of COPD is expected to reach $4.8 trillion by 2050, yet it remains underfunded and under-prioritized. Zimbabwe must ensure standardized care and support for everyone affected,” Ngwenya said.
World COPD Day is commemorated annually on the third Wednesday of November. Organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), it raises awareness about COPD and advocates for better healthcare strategies globally.
