THE number of people in Wyre Forest with a chronic lung condition could be double the number health chiefs are already aware of.

A total of 1,331 district residents are known to have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - COPD - which takes various forms, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma.

Symptoms are breathlessness, persistent coughing and wheezing. The disease is the only major cause of death which is increasing in the UK.

This year COPD is set to kill more women than breast cancer if current trends continue. Women are more susceptible to developing the disease than men because their airways are more sensitive, especially to smoke, possibly because they are smaller.

An estimated 2.1 million people nationally are thought to have an undiagnosed case of the condition.

Wyre Forest Primary Care Trust - PCT - has warned it is vital residents at risk get their lungs tested so they can be treated to relieve the symptoms and given tips on how to stay healthy, particularly with winter approaching.

Smokers and former smokers are particularly at risk of developing the disease, especially if they are 35 or over and have smoked at least 20 cigarettes a day for 20 years or more.

Over time, the damage caused produces irreversible changes to the structure of the lungs and airways.

Sally-Anne Osborne, intermediate care facilitator at the PCT, said: "We are keen to raise awareness of COPD to people in Wyre Forest.

"Early detection using a simple test to measure how well your lungs are functioning, called a spirometry test, stopping smoking, staying as active as possible and eating a good diet can make all the difference."

People who want to be better prepared to cope with the condition can participate in an Expert Patients Programme that will be run in Stourport from January 24. Details are available from the PCT on 01562 826329.