ABC of COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive,largely irreversible lung condition characterised by airflowobstruction. Although cigarette smoking is the single mostimportant risk factor in its development, other associations andrisk factors are thought to have increasing relevance throughoutthe world. COPD is usually managed in primary care, although it iscommonly under-diagnosed, and is one of the most common medicalconditions necessitating admission to hospital.
The second edition of the ABC of COPD provides the entiremultidisciplinary team with a reliable, up-to-date and accessibleaccount of COPD. Extensively updated by experienced clinicians -including new chapters on spirometry, inhalers, oxygen, death,dying and end of life issues - this ABC is an authoritativeand practical guide for general practitioners, practice nurses,specialist nurses, medical students, paramedical staff, juniordoctors, non-specialist doctors and all other health professionalsworking in both primary and secondary care.