Pocket Science - COPD 2nd edition
Dr Rupert Jones
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease of the lungs which is characterised by airflow obstruction and lung parenchymal damage.
- In addition to clinical features, a diagnosis is confirmed by a post bronchodilator FEV1: FVC ratio of less than 70%.
- Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of COPD and occupational exposures to tobacco smoke are important.
- COPD is a potentially fatal, slowly progressive disease of the lungs. However, it is a preventable and treatable condition.
- COPD is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and the burden is rising.
- The onset of COPD most commonly occurs from middle age onwards.
- In the UK, the majority of people with COPD go undiagnosed.
- The cost of caring for patients with COPD is high and disease exacerbations are a major component of the costs.
- People from poor socioeconomic backgrounds are at higher risk of having COPD.
- COPD can profoundly impair quality of life and reduce overall health status.
- Identifying patients with COPD earlier in the course of the disease can minimise progression and relieve symptoms.
Appropriate treatment with drugs, education and rehabilitation is vital to improving their quality of life and overall outcomes.