Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its′ comorbidities

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airway obstruction. Comorbidities are frequent in COPD and significantly impact on patients' quality of life, acute exacerbation frequency and survival. But they are often under-recognized and under-treated. This article reviews several common complications including cardiovascular disease, anxiety and depression, osteoporosis and lung cancer so as to improve the recognition and management of patients with COPD. Key words: Pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive; Comorbidity; Review