Exploring the journey of people with COPD to identify how COPD diagnosis is impacting and shaping the day-to-day real-life experiences.

<bold>Introduction/Aims:</bold> COPD significantly impacts the lives of those affected, shaping their daily experiences in many ways. This study <bold>aims:</bold> to explore the impact of COPD on people’s lives, utilising qualitative research methodology, to allow in-depth understanding and provide the opportunity for participants to communicate the most burdensome issues and concerns. <bold>Methods:</bold> People with COPD over 18 years of age were invited to participate in qualitative semi-structured interviews investigating their experiences living with COPD. People were recruited from the community pharmacy, specialists’ rooms and volunteer database. Interviews were conducted via telephone, teleconference or face-to-face. Interview recordings were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. <bold>Results:</bold> Twenty-five participants completed the study with recruitment ongoing. Participants noted that before diagnosis, they often attributed COPD symptoms to ageing with minimal impact on their lives, but post-diagnosis, they observed a progressive and noticeable increase in the effects of COPD. Most people mentioned that they had to adapt to “new norms”, e.g. quit working or limit social interactions. Such changes often impact their ability to cope with the disease and mental health status. Some individuals reported that a COPD diagnosis positively influenced their lives, motivating lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation or initiating physical activity. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> The study's findings underscore the profound impact of COPD on individuals' daily lives, highlighting the need for adaptation to new norms and lifestyle adjustments, seeking ways to ease the burden.