WHO fact sheet on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) provides key facts and information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, risk factors and WHO response. GOLD defines COPD as a heterogeneous lung condition characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms (shortness of breath, cough, sputum production or exacerbations) due to abnormalities of the airways (bronchitis, bronchiolitis) or alveoli (emphysema) that cause persistent, often progressive, airflow obstruction. [10] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. Here you'll find information, resources and tools to help you understand COPD, manage treatment and lifestyle changes, find support and take action. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an ongoing lung condition caused by damage to the lungs. The damage results in swelling and irritation, also called inflammation, inside the airways that limit airflow into and out of the lungs.
