Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Co-Morbidities and Systemic Consequences

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. By 2020, COPD is expected to be the fifth leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death. COPD is associated with significant co-morbid illnesses including cardiovascular disease, pulmonary vascular disease, osteoporosis, depression and thoracic malignancies. In addition, COPD patients often have systemic manifestations of their disease, including peripheral muscle dysfunction, decreased activity levels and nutritional abnormalities, all of which contribute to poor functional status, decreased quality of life and increased health care utilization. Lack of recognition and understanding of the complex interactions of these common co-morbid conditions and systemic effects often contributes to sub-optimal care for patients with COPD. Comprehensive in covering the range of co-morbidities that often accompany COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Co-Morbidities and Systemic Consequences provides a concise, evidence-based review of the problem and its systemic manifestations. All physicians interested in this growing disorder - from subspecialists to primary care providers -will find in this timely and informative title the practical, state-of-the art approaches needed to provide targeted, integrated care for patients with COPD.