A microsimulation model for the development and progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The simulation model provides us with valuable information on current and future trends in COPD in Great Britain. It was developed primarily to enable easy extension to evaluate the effects of occupational and environmental exposures on lung function and the prevalence of COPD and to allow evaluation of interventions, such as introducing health surveillance or policy changes. As longitudinal studies for investigating COPD are difficult due to the lengthy follow-up time required and the potentially large number of drop-outs, we anticipate that the model will provide a valuable tool for health impact assessment. An extended model for occupational exposures is under development and will be presented in a subsequent paper.