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Published: 12 July 2017

Authors: Associate Professor Robert Young

In this publication:

This publication follows on from the 2016 publication discussing the management of COPD in general practice and provides an update on the latest international recommendations for the treatment of this condition. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) recently released their 2017 report on the diagnosis, management and prevention of COPD. This is the 4GOLD update based on a comprehensive review of new and relevant information published on COPD from 2015 to 2016. Spirometry remains necessary for accurate diagnosis and subsequent progression. The GOLD 2017 update gives greater focus to symptoms through the use of quality of life assessment tools and the effect of symptom burden on the life of COPD patients.