[Treating COPD in chronic patients in a primary-care setting].
The aging of the populations in Western countries entails an increase in chronic diseases, which becomes evident with the triad of age, comorbidities and polymedication. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease represents one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality, with a prevalence in Spain of 10.2% in the population aged 40 to 80. In recent years, it has come to be defined not only as an obstructive pulmonary disease, but also as a systemic disease. Some aspects stand out in its management: smoking, the main risk factor, even though avoidable, is an important health problem; very important levels of underdiagnosis and little diagnostic accuracy, with inadequate use of spirometry; chronic patient profile; exacerbations that affect survival and cause repeated hospitalizations; mobilization of numerous health-care resources; need to propose integral care (health-care education, rehabilitation, promotion of self-care and patient involvement in decision-making).
EAP Encants, SAP Muntanya-Dreta de Barcelona, ICS, España.
Maria Antònia
MA
Llauger Roselló
Maria Antònia
MA
Pou
Leandra
L
Domínguez
Montse
M
Freixas
Pepi
P
Valverde
Carles
C
Valero
D017677:Age Distribution; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000453:epidemiology; D015897:Comorbidity; D003245:Consensus Statements as Topic; D006760:Hospitalization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D009313:National Health Programs; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011320:Primary Health Care; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D011788:Quality of Life; D013030:Spain / Q000453:epidemiology; D013147:Spirometry