Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable condition characterized by progressive airflow limitation and chronic inflammation in the airways. It is the fourth leading cause of death globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality with substantial economic and social impacts. The prevalence of COPD is closely linked to tobacco smoking, and it is more common in men over 40 years old. The Global Burden of Disease Study projects that COPD will become the third leading cause of death by 2020. The disease involves both small airway disease (obstructive bronchiolitis) and parenchymal destruction (emphysema), resulting from chronic inflammation caused by inhalation of cigarette smoke and other noxious particles. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) was established in 1998 to provide healthcare professionals with a strategy for effective management based on the best available scientific information. GOLD has released several reports and updates to guide early detection, prevention, and management of COPD.Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable condition characterized by progressive airflow limitation and chronic inflammation in the airways. It is the fourth leading cause of death globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality with substantial economic and social impacts. The prevalence of COPD is closely linked to tobacco smoking, and it is more common in men over 40 years old. The Global Burden of Disease Study projects that COPD will become the third leading cause of death by 2020. The disease involves both small airway disease (obstructive bronchiolitis) and parenchymal destruction (emphysema), resulting from chronic inflammation caused by inhalation of cigarette smoke and other noxious particles. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) was established in 1998 to provide healthcare professionals with a strategy for effective management based on the best available scientific information. GOLD has released several reports and updates to guide early detection, prevention, and management of COPD.