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Liverpool ranks top for quitting smoking amongst Merseyside locations
IN the UK, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is estimated to affect almost 3 million people within the UK, of which 900,00 of them are undiagnosed. It is the second most common cause of emergency hospitalisations and contributes to one in eight (12.5%) UK hospital admissions.
Despite many nationwide anti-smoking initiatives such as Stoptober, smoking remains the primary cause of developing COPD; a condition which can lead to long-term damage to the lungs and airways from exposure to toxins in cigarette smoke. With up to 6 million smokers in the UK and an ageing population, COPD has become increasingly common, posing significant health challenges to individuals and a heavy strain on our healthcare system. COPD: Key statistics:-
According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), in 2016 smoking rates were notably higher among residents in the most deprived areas of England, with rates being more than four times higher compared to those living in more affluent areas.
Individuals living in rented accommodation were over three times more likely to smoke than non-renters, while people in routine and manual jobs were three times more likely to smoke than those in managerial and professional positions. Additionally, factors such as lack of qualifications, receiving benefits, and severe health problems that limit physical activity also contributed to higher smoking rates. Using data from GOV.UK, areas in Merseyside (with 100,000+ residents) with the highest smoking rates include:-
The impact of smoking on health is evident from statistics, with 85% of lung cancer cases being attributed to smoking. Lung cancer mortality rates were approximately twice as high in England's most deprived areas compared to the least deprived areas.
Smoking was also estimated to be responsible for nine out of ten cases of COPD, and COPD-related deaths were more than twice as common in the most deprived areas. According to research conducted by NHS Digital nearly 400,000 people set quitting dates through NHS Stop Smoking Services in 2015-2016. Among the areas analysed, Liverpool topped the quit list with a 50% success rate, as did Wirral with 50%. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COPD is predicted to be the third highest cause of death worldwide by 2030 and continues to affect millions of people every single year, specifically those are aged over 40. In response to the increase in smoking-related diseases such as COPD, MAC Clinical Research, is leading a trial to test a potential new treatment for exacerbations in people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This condition is due to lung inflammation and damage, leading to symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, and sputum production, which can worsen over time. Dr Sandy Connell, Medical Director, and lead on the COPD clinical trial at MAC Clinical Research, said:- "The trial aims to evaluate an investigational medicine as a treatment for moderate to very severe COPD, associated with elevated blood eosinophils (one of several white blood cells that support your immune system) and frequent exacerbations. The investigational medicine may offer hope for COPD patients with eosinophilic inflammation who are at risk of exacerbations by providing a potential complementary maintenance treatment to prevent the exacerbations. Addressing smoking habits and providing adequate support for quitting is paramount in improving public health outcomes, particularly in areas with higher smoking rates. Continued research through clinical trials is vital in developing more effective treatments for smoking-related diseases like COPD. By prioritising these efforts, we can strive towards a healthier, smoke-free future.” With a shift in generational habits from smoking cigarettes to other possible replacements, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, our fight against respiratory diseases will only continue, with extra research needed around the new alternatives. For those tobacco smokers and ex-smokers who are diagnosed and living with COPD, clinical trials to develop and test new and improved medications are crucial for improved quality of life. If you are interested in participating in the COPD clinical trial, you can view the criteria and register your interest by visiting the MAC Clinical Research website. COMMENTS (0)
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