Consensus: Challenges and opportunities

In light of the increasing prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the associated morbidity and mortality, attention should be focused on prevention and treatment optimization. Physicians must remain proactive in recognizing patients at risk for COPD and encouraging lifestyle changes that may help prevent progression of disease. Once disease is present, pharmacologic treatment should begin. It is essential that such treatment be aggressive and aimed at reducing symptoms, slowing lung function decline, improving compliance, and improving quality of life.