Primary Care Reports – November 1, 2023
November 1, 2023
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Update for Primary Care Providers
The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease 2023 report defines chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a heterogeneous lung condition characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms (dyspnea, cough, sputum production, and/or exacerbations) caused by abnormalities of the airways (bronchitis, bronchiolitis) and/or alveoli (emphysema) that result in persistent, often progressive, airflow obstruction. COPD was the fourth leading cause of death in the United States in 2018 and is estimated to be responsible for 3 million deaths annually around the world, with expected increases to 5.4 million annual deaths from COPD and related conditions by 2060.