20 April 2026
The WHO Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) Report is a landmark publication, the first of its kind dedicated entirely to CRDs in the European Region. Developed in collaboration with the European Respiratory Society (ERS), it shines a long overdue spotlight on conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Despite affecting 81.7 million people, being the sixth leading cause of death in the region, and costing an estimated $20.7 billion annually in lost productivity, CRDs have historically received far less attention than diseases such as cancer or cardiovascular conditions. This report arrives at a critical moment, as COPD cases are projected to rise by 23% globally by 2050, with the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacting trends, and climate change continuing to worsen respiratory risks. By bringing together data, country case studies and clear policy recommendations, the CRD report provides a much-needed, clear evidence base and call for action.
What the report reveals is striking. Across the WHO European Region, there is a clear East–West divide. Western European countries report higher prevalence of CRDs, but this is largely due to stronger diagnostic systems and better reporting. In contrast, many Eastern European countries show lower recorded prevalence but significantly higher mortality and hospitalisation rates. This paradox points to widespread underdiagnosis and late presentation, where patients are only identified once disease has progressed.
Within countries these disparities and health inequalities are just as stark. People in lower income groups and with lower levels of education carry a disproportionate burden of disease. Vulnerable populations including migrants, rural communities, Roma communities and prisoners face compounded risks from tobacco exposure, poor air quality, occupational hazards and limited access to care. The message is clear: where you live and your socioeconomic status strongly determine both your risk of developing CRDs and your chances of receiving timely care.
Encouragingly, the report also shows that progress is achievable. Case studies from Finland, Hungary, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal and the United Kingdom highlight what works. Finland’s long-term, prevention-focused lung health programme demonstrates the power of embedding respiratory care within primary care systems. Georgia’s work in this area shows how strong tobacco control policies can drive behavioural change, even in resource-constrained settings.
Kyrgyzstan underscores the importance of prevention in high-pollution environments, while Portugal and the UK illustrate the impact and value of structured national programmes with clear targets and investment in primary care. Across all examples, a common thread emerges: success comes from integrating CRD care into broader health systems, supported by sustainable financing that reduces out-of-pocket costs for patients.
For national coalitions and policy advocates this report is more than just a publication, it is a practical tool for change. It translates the burden of CRDs into economic terms that should resonate with governments, showing that every dollar invested in prevention can yield a $7 return. It provides a framework for accountability through six “key questions” every country should answer, alongside a set of WHO “best buys”-proven, cost-effective interventions such as tobacco taxation, graphic health warnings and integrating CRD care into universal health coverage.
Crucially, it also offers real-world examples and patient stories that bring the data to life. Perhaps most importantly, it creates an opportunity to push for an achievement that has been missing until now: clear, measurable global and national targets for chronic respiratory diseases.
This report doesn’t just describe and provide evidence for the problems, it equips us with the tools to address them.