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Review
. 2006 Feb;61(2):164-8.
doi: 10.1136/thx.2005.041806.

COPD exacerbations .1: Epidemiology

G C Donaldson  1 , J A Wedzicha
Affiliations
Review

COPD exacerbations .1: Epidemiology

G C Donaldson et al. Thorax. 2006 Feb.

Abstract

The epidemiology of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is reviewed with particular reference to the definition, frequency, time course, natural history and seasonality, and their relationship with decline in lung function, disease severity and mortality. The importance of distinguishing between recurrent and relapsed exacerbations is discussed.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: JAW is Editor in Chief of Thorax.

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