Back

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that is characterized by a persistent reduction of airflow. The symptoms of COPD are progressively worsening and persistent breathlessness on exertion, eventually leading to breathlessness at rest. It tends to be under­diagnosed and can be life­threatening. The more familiar terms “chronic bronchitis” and “emphysema” have often been used as labels for the condition.

Source: World Health Organization

» Course Glossary