The changing face of COPD.

摘要

Chrome obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is very different today, in both magnitude and character, than a mere two decades ago. The clinical presentation of COPD has evolved, and the prevalence of this syndrome has grown substantially. COPD was not among the leading causes of death a generation ago, but it is now ranked fourth. Fortunately, the means for physicians to help their patients with COPD also have improved significantly in recent years. With the new face of COPD, there is also an opportunity to make a fresh start at controlling this condition.