Modifications of the strategy for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Abstract
The document Global Strategy for the Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention of COPD was published in April 2001. In view of the dynamic development of new knowledge on COPD the authors decided that the original document should be revised.
The experts, who prepared the international concensus published in 2001, met again. The most significant changes pertain to five areas: 1. new terms for the stages of stable COPD; 2. the position of long- and short-acting bronchodilators, including the introduction into tresiment of the new long-acting anticholinergic thiotropium; 3. the position of inhalation corticosteroids in therapy; 4. duration of rehabilitation programmes; 5.the pros and cons of home and hospital care of patients presenting COPD exacerbation.