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 and a major contributor to chronic morbidity and mortality, with significant economic and social burdens. The prevalence of COPD is closely linked to tobacco smoking, and global data show that less than 6% of adults are affected. The Global Burden of Disease Study predicts that COPD will become the third leading cause of death by 2020. In the United States, COPD costs over $49.9 billion annually, including both direct and indirect costs. In developing countries, the economic impact is also substantial, affecting workplace and home productivity. COPD results from a combination of small airway disease and emphysema, caused by exposure to noxious particles like cigarette smoke. Chronic inflammation leads to tissue destruction and impaired repair mechanisms, resulting in symptoms such as breathlessness. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) was established in 1998 to provide healthcare professionals with a strategy for managing COPD based on the best available scientific evidence. The first GOLD report was published in 2001, with subsequent revisions in 2006 and 2011, and updated reports in 2013, 2014, and 2015. The initiative aims to raise awareness of COPD's burden and promote early detection, prevention, and effective management through collaboration with national leaders and healthcare professionals.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 and a major contributor to chronic morbidity and mortality, with significant economic and social burdens. The prevalence of COPD is closely linked to tobacco smoking, and global data show that less than 6% of adults are affected. The Global Burden of Disease Study predicts that COPD will become the third leading cause of death by 2020. In the United States, COPD costs over $49.9 billion annually, including both direct and indirect costs. In developing countries, the economic impact is also substantial, affecting workplace and home productivity. COPD results from a combination of small airway disease and emphysema, caused by exposure to noxious particles like cigarette smoke. Chronic inflammation leads to tissue destruction and impaired repair mechanisms, resulting in symptoms such as breathlessness. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) was established in 1998 to provide healthcare professionals with a strategy for managing COPD based on the best available scientific evidence. The first GOLD report was published in 2001, with subsequent revisions in 2006 and 2011, and updated reports in 2013, 2014, and 2015. The initiative aims to raise awareness of COPD's burden and promote early detection, prevention, and effective management through collaboration with national leaders and healthcare professionals.