Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Part 1: Disease State Review

In 2018, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was estimated to affect 16.4 million people, or 6.6% of adults in the United States alone. In older people, the estimated prevalence is even higher with reported rates as high as 14.2% in adults older than 65 years of age. COPD is a preventable disease caused by repetitive exposure to noxious particles, especially inhaled toxins from cigarette smoke. It is associated with decreased quality of life, increased hospitalization, increased mortality, and significant financial burden to patients and health care systems. Senior care pharmacists are well-suited to provide assessment, treatment, and patient education related to COPD and smoking cessation. Early and frequent interventions can decrease symptom burden, reduce costs, and improve the lives of those with COPD.