Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, and Evaluation

Conclusion

COPD is a common disease that is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, both in the United States and worldwide. Most cases of COPD are attributable to smoking. Although its incidence among men has plateaued, it continues to increase among women. COPD, particularly in its early stages, is under-diagnosed in the United States. An increased awareness among physicians of the prevalence of mild COPD and the importance of spirometry in diagnosing the disease is important in combating the disease.

Corresponding author: David M. Mannino, MD, Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, 111 Washington Avenue, Lexington, KY 40536, dmannino@uky.edu.

 Financial disclosures: Dr. Mannino has received fees from GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, AstraZeneca, Sunovion, and Boehringer Ingelheim for advisory board services.