title: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations: latest evidence and clinical implications.
abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and results in an economic and social burden that is both substantial and increasing. The natural history of COPD is punctuated by exacerbations which have major short- and long-term implications on the patient and healthcare system. Evidence-based guidelines stipulate that early detection and prompt treatment of exacerbations are essential to ensure optimal outcomes and to reduce the burden of COPD. Several factors can identify populations at risk of exacerbations. Implementing prevention measures in patients at risk is a major goal in the management of COPD.
authors.affiliation: Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
authors.forename: Hammad
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Qureshi
authors.affiliation: Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Medical Care Line, Michael E. DeBaKey VA Medical Center; and Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
authors.forename: Amir
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sharafkhaneh
authors.affiliation: Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, 1504 Taub Loop, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
authors.forename: Nicola A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Hanania
keywords: bronchodilators; chronic bronchitis; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; emphysema; exacerbation; prevention; treatment