Colder temperature is associated with increased COPD morbidity

Due to global climate change, climatologists anticipate not only a rise in mean yearly ambient temperature, but also an increase in the frequency and intensity of variable weather patterns, including extreme hot and cold weather events [1, 2]. Overall mortality is higher during winter months [3, 4] and half of excessive deaths in the cold season are respiratory in nature [5]. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide and is linked to high healthcare-associated financial burden [6, 7]. Identifying environmental factors that contribute to COPD morbidity is crucial to define adaptive strategies to improve outcomes. Cold temperatures lead to worse outcomes in those with COPD, even after accounting for other environmental factors <http://ow.ly/ltCG30bRWnT>