[Chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy. Epidemiologic aspects and balneotherapy potential]

The authors remember the epidemiological data of BPCO in Italy and in the world and stress the increasing incidence and prevalence of these disease, interesting above all industrial-urban areas, middle and old aged, males and smokers. The pathogenetic role of atmospheric pollution, caused by industries, heating system and motor vehicles, in exposed. At the end Auctors summarise the results of the inhalatory therapy by mineral waters in BPCO, especially of sulphureas and salso-jodic spas.