Yes, and it makes it seem like all we have to do is use an inhaler and then go back to our normal life. They show people dancing, fishing, playing with grandkids, all the things we USED to be able to do. I think they are doing folks with COPD a disservice. People see those ads and can't figure out what our big problem is. That is the perception most people have of COPD, no big deal, just use the inhaler and everything is fine. And as @A MyCOPDTeam Member pointed out, none of them are using oxygen. I wish they would make the commercials more realistic.

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A MyCOPDT...

There are over 24 million people in the US with COPD. About half have been diagnosed. Of the 12 million who have been diagnosed, only about 15% have been prescribed O2 and fewer than that actually use it, especially in public. That leaves 85% who are not on O2 and who probably look a lot like the people in those pictures. The ads are not accurate for you, and don't accurately reflect you, but they do pretty accurately reflect a large percentage of people with COPD in this country. When you think about it from that point of view, it changes your perceptions a tad. For many people, those inhalers make it possible for them to continue to work, to play with their kids and grandkids, to do all sorts of things.

The fact that you're not one of them is unfortunate, and it's particularly unfortunate that your kids and friends don't understand that you're way beyond that in the progression of your disease. Perhaps if you share the figures above and get them to think about the typical bell curve and where you fit on the low end of it, they'll begin to get the idea.

Jean

The thing is, the pharmaceutical companies don't care where they make their money. Look how expensive these new inhalers are. The copays are ridiculous, and half the insurance companies won't cover them. What's the co pay on Advair and spiriva now? Ridiculous. People on fixed incomes just can't keep up, and I'm talking pretty much all the meds that are made for really bad or terminal diseases. Makes me furious. I'm in hospice, so most of my copd and heart are covered, I'll get off my soap box now. Just venting because I saw an ad for dulera a while ago. The people in the ads look so content and happy....bull... Have a good Sunday everyone.

You are so right. If enough of us joined together, it may Make a dent, though very small. Unfortunately, television here is regulated by those whose basic interest is making money. These companies pay millions of dollars to get their messages across to the general public. We could not win. The almighty dollar is more important. These particular ads make copd sound like a headache ...just take an aspirin and you'll be able to breathe and carry on as if it's a minor annoyance. Makes me furious. By te way, ranting can be a good thing. Thank you for standing up for what is right. Hugs to you.

They should use real people with COPD, not actors who know nothing about it. Or little cartoon figures, kids think it is something for them, but don't know what is being advertised. Oh, I am getting aggravated again. Who has the bricks.