PGA Newsletter Vol.1 No.19,21st September2011

The Australian Lung Foundation has released the latest version of the COPD-X Guidelines, which are used to guide the diagnosis and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

 

The most recent research on COPD is now reflected in the newly updated version of The COPD-X Plan: Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for the Management of Chronic ObstructivePulmonary Disease.

The key recommendations of theCOPD-X Plan are included in the sections  Confirm diagnosis, Optimise function,Prevent deterioration, Develop support network and self-management and Manage eXacerbations.

 

Data from a randomised double-blind trial (Vestbo et al, 2009) shows little evidence existed about adherence to inhaled medication in COPD and the impact on mortality and morbidity. Data on drug adherence from a randomised double-blind trial comparing inhaled salmeterol 50 microgram fluticasone propionate 500 microgram twice daily with placebo and each drug individually in 6112 patients with moderate to severe COPD over three years in the TORCH (TOwards a Revolution in COPD Health) study were used.

 

For Full content,please refer to: PGA Newsletter Vol.1 No.19,21st September2011