Mortality and illness JSNA

Respiratory illness

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the borough of Rochdale is 2.4 per cent of the population (Quality Outcomes Framework, 2021/22). This is above the national rate of 1.9 per cent. The prevalence of asthma in the borough is 7.4 per cent.

What are respiratory diseases?

Respiratory diseases are conditions that affect the respiratory system and include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia and respiratory infections amongst others. Collectively they are one of the top causes of death in the country with smoking a key risk factor in contracting the diseases.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties. The breathing problems tend to get gradually worse over time and can limit your normal activities, although treatment can help keep the condition under control. It is largely a preventable condition and you can significantly reduce your chances of developing it if you avoid smoking.

Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory condition that is caused by inflammation of the air passages in the lungs. The main symptoms are wheezing, breathlessness, a tight chest and coughing. Asthma is the most common long term condition in children and one of the biggest causes of hospital admissions amongst young people.

Statistics on respiratory disease

Guidance and information on respiratory disease

There are also a number of NICE guidance documents on specific respiratory illnesses such as: