Abstract

ARAUJO, António Manuel S. Duarte de. Does our current treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease represent the state of the art?. Rev Port Med Geral Fam [online]. 2016, vol.32, n.3, pp.222-226. ISSN 2182-5173.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the most common chronic respiratory disease in adults, with an estimated prevalence from 7.6 to 8.9% of the adult population. It is the fourth most common cause of death worldwide. The high mortality from COPD is mainly due to exacerbations requiring hospitalization. We lack robust knowledge allowing us to predict exacerbations of COPD and when and in whom they will occur. Correct treatment, based on the best medical available evidence and knowledge of the reasons for non-adherence, can improve adherence and promote correct inhaler technique. These goals represent the best way to treat patients with COPD and should be the physician's first concern.

Keywords : COPD; Treatment; Guidelines.

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