GOLD COPD DOCUMENT 2023: a brief update for practicing cardiologists

COPD is the elephant in the room for many patients with CVDs. It is a prevalent, preventable, and treatable condition, but most often it has not been diagnosed and, hence, not treated appropriately [2]. Importantly for cardiology practice, optimal management of COPD is associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes [66]. Yet, such clinical management requires, to begin with, a high level of suspicion and appropriate confirmation of diagnosis by spirometry. Initial treatment should focus on smoking abstinence and use of one or two long-acting bronchodilators. Referral to specialized pulmonary care is advised if response to treatment is not satisfactory.