Mortality of patients with COPD

INTRODUCTION: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third most common cause of death worldwide and 24% of the patients die within 5 years of diagnosis. AREAS COVERED: century. The smoking epidemic temporarily reversed this trend.Older age, worse lung function and exacerbations are risk factors for death. Single inhaler triple therapy; smoking cessation; pulmonary rehabilitation; oxygen therapy; noninvasive ventilation; and surgery reduce mortality in selected patients. EXPERT OPINION: The importance of addressing the global burden of mortality from COPD must be recognized. Steps must be taken to reduce it, by reducing exposure to risk factors, assessing individual patients' risk of death and using treatments that reduce the risk of death. Mortality rates are falling in countries that have adopted a comprehensive approach to COPD prevention and treatment.