The BEACH data confirmed that patients managed for COPD were significantly more likely than average to be male. Male patients were managed for COPD at a rate of 10 per 1000 encounters, significantly higher than the rate for females (7 per 1000). They were also more likely to be older than the average general practice patient; three-quarters of COPD patients were aged 65 years or more. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was managed at a rate of 21 per 1000 encounters with patients in that age group.