Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading respiratory health challenge globally, with a sharp rise in cases in Saudi Arabia. By 2019, COPD cases exceeded 430,000, a 330% increase since 1990. Contributing factors include smoking, air pollution, and occupational hazards. Notably, Saudi Arabia has introduced new biologic therapies and established over 70 smoking cessation clinics. The Ministry of Health’s efforts focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and modern treatments to reduce COPD’s impact and improve patient quality of life.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) remains one of the most serious respiratory health challenges globally, affecting millions of people and ranking among the leading causes of illness and death. This progressive disease is marked by a persistent narrowing of the airways, which hinders airflow to and from the lungs. It typically develops over time due to prolonged exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke and environmental pollutants.
In Saudi Arabia, the burden of COPD has grown significantly in recent decades. According to data, the number of COPD cases exceeded 430,000 by 2019, a dramatic 330% increase compared to 1990. The age-standardized prevalence rate rose from approximately 1,380 per 100,000 people to over 2,050 during the same period, signaling a worsening public health concern.
Mortality rates tell a similar story. In 2019 alone, more than 2,000 deaths in the Kingdom were linked to COPD — a 48% increase over the past thirty years. The disease now accounts for approximately 1.65% of all annual deaths in the country.
Several factors contribute to the rising incidence of COPD, with smoking—across all its forms—remaining the leading cause. Other major contributors include air pollution (both outdoor and indoor) and occupational exposure to dust and harmful chemicals in certain work environments.
Dr. Mohammed Omar Zeitouni a leading pulmonologist in Saudi Arabia, emphasized the severity of the condition: “Smoking is a major culprit behind COPD, as it gradually narrows the airways and damages the alveoli and lungs. Key symptoms include shortness of breath during physical activity, wheezing, and chronic coughing with phlegm. When patients catch a viral infection, recovery takes longer and fatigue becomes more pronounced. Many people mistakenly attribute these symptoms to aging, especially since the disease is more common in older adults,” he explained.
“For years, we believed COPD was incurable and focused mainly on bronchodilators and medications to relieve symptoms. However, recent breakthroughs show that up to 40% of patients suffer from chronic airway inflammation — a treatable condition. This could significantly reduce hospital admissions and improve patients’ quality of life,” he added.
Preeti Futnani – GCC Region Lead & GM for Specialty Care Saudi & Gulf, Sanofi, highlighted a key milestone in treatment: “Sanofi has launched the world’s first biologic therapy for COPD, now available in Saudi Arabia. This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s strategic health priorities and our ongoing partnership with the Ministry of Health.”
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To curb the spread of the disease, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has rolled out a series of initiatives, including the establishment of more than 70 dedicated clinics to support smoking cessation and the enforcement of strict no-smoking regulations in public areas. Regular awareness campaigns have been launched to educate the public on the risks of COPD and the importance of prevention. Additionally, medical professionals across the country are being trained in early diagnosis and modern treatment approaches.
COPD remains a growing health challenge in the Kingdom, requiring a comprehensive response that integrates public education, stronger preventive programs, and advanced diagnostic and treatment services. These efforts are key to easing the burden of the disease and helping patients lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
