These podcasts are produced for educational discussions only. Reference to any specific product, treatment, or entity does not constitute an endorsement. The views expressed by speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the view of GOLD in entirety.

The aim of the GOLD Report is to provide a non-biased review of the current evidence for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of people with COPD. One of the strengths of GOLD reports is the treatment objectives. These have stood the test of time, and are organized into two groups: objectives tha ... t are directed towards relieving and reducing the impact of symptoms, and objectives that reduce the risk of adverse health events that may affect the patient at some point in the future (exacerbations are an example of such events). This emphasizes the need for clinicians to focus on both the short-term and long-term impact of COPD on their patients. more

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is now one of the top three causes of death worldwide and 90% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). More than 3 million people died of COPD in 2012 accounting for 6% of all deaths globally. COPD represents an important public ... health challenge that is both preventable and treatable. COPD is a major cause of chronic morbidity and mortality throughout the world; many people suffer from this disease for years and die prematurely from it or its complications. Globally, the COPD burden is projected to increase incoming decades because of continued exposure to COPD risk factors and aging of thepopulation. more