Abstract
COPD is a common and under-diagnosed disease which is increasing in prevalence worldwide. A more aggressive and optimistic approach must be adopted towards its management in primary care. This IPCRG Guideline on the management of COPD in primary care is fully consistent with GOLD guidelines. It highlights the goals of COPD treatment and the need for spirometric testing to make the diagnosis. It covers the classification of the disease according to disease severity, non-pharmacologic therapy including smoking cessation, avoidance of risk factors, patient education, pharmacologic therapy including the use of oxygen treatment, the management of exacerbations, the role of pulmonary rehabilitation, and the need for monitoring and ongoing care for COPD patients.
Similar content being viewed by others
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Bellamy, D., Bouchard, J., Henrichsen, S. et al. International Primary Care Respiratory Group (IPCRG) Guidelines: Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Prim Care Respir J 15, 48–57 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcrj.2005.11.003
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcrj.2005.11.003
This article is cited by
-
Cost-effectiveness of integrated disease management for high risk, exacerbation prone, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a primary care setting
Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation (2022)
-
Targeting exertional breathlessness to improve physical activity: the role of primary care
npj Primary Care Respiratory Medicine (2021)
-
Effects of the Spirometry Learning Module on the knowledge, confidence, and experience of spirometry operators
npj Primary Care Respiratory Medicine (2019)
-
GP utilisation by education level among adults with COPD or asthma: a cross-sectional register-based study
npj Primary Care Respiratory Medicine (2016)
-
Appropriate use of inhaled corticosteroids in COPD: the candidates for safe withdrawal
npj Primary Care Respiratory Medicine (2016)