As a respiratory and mental health specialist with over  22 years of experience, I see the "vicious cycle" daily. In Gloucestershire, over 12,286 people are officially diagnosed with COPD. However, current health data reveals a "Hidden 8,000"—an estimated 8,640 neighbors living with the disease undiagnosed and untreated. This isn't just a local issue; it is a global emergency. By 2050, the number of COPD cases worldwide is projected to increase by 23%, reaching nearly 600 million people.

For many, the physical struggle of breathing is only half the battle. "Emotional breathlessness"—the paralyzing panic that accompanies gasping for air—is being ignored by our current healthcare system.

My Proposal: I am calling on Gloucestershire Health Authorities to implement three lifesaving changes:

Mandatory Mental Health Screenings: Integrate psychological checks into every routine COPD assessment at GP centers.

Find the "Hidden 8,000": Launch an aggressive public awareness campaign to reach undiagnosed residents before they hit crisis point.

Comprehensive Comorbidity Care: Screen COPD patients for diabetes and heart disease as a standard part of respiratory care.