Family physicians’ approach to COPD according to GOLD guidelines 2013

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd) is a preventable disease state, characterized by progressive airflow limitation. copd is a major health problem, causing a progressive rise in health care spending in both developed and developing countries. according to 2020 projection of the world health organization (who), copd is expected to be the 5th cause of illness and disability, and the 6th leading cause of death worldwide. although smoking is accepted as the most important risk factor for copd according to the gold (global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease) 2013 report, different entities such as occupational exposure, socio-economic status and genetic predisposition may also play an important role in varying contributions. therefore, efficient and accurate approach of family physicians to copd in primary care is very important.