[Is the patient with respiratory failure adequately cared for these days?]

Pulmonary function studies in 20,000 non-clinical probands throughout Austria showed abnormal findings in 20%. This is further evidence that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is epidemiologically similar to coronary heart disease. A staging classification of COPD has been proposed to facilitate a strategy for the prevention of the disease and to permit coordination among general practitioners, specialists and pulmonary function laboratories. This initiative aims to reduce the prevalence of advanced (stage IV) COPD. In the meantime long-term oxygen therapy and respirator therapy should be used increasingly to improve the quality of life of patients with advanced COPD.