Integrated care for COPD and cardiovascular comorbidities: A multidisciplinary approach for the cardiopulmonary patient Atención integral de la EPOC y comorbilidades cardiovasculares: un enfoque multidisciplinar para el paciente con riesgo cardiopulmonar

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) frequently coexist, each increasing the prevalence of the other and worsening their clinical manifestations and prognosis. The common pathophysiological mechanisms, as well as the overlap of certain symptoms and findings in complementary tests, make diagnosis and follow-up of these patients difficult. Therefore, a comprehensive approach to cardiopulmonary risk requires a multidisciplinary approach that prioritises prevention and coordinated care between the different clinical specialties involved. This document, jointly developed by several specialists in pulmonology, cardiology, internal medicine, emergency medicine, and Primary Care belonging to seven medical societies in Spain, with extensive clinical experience in the management of COPD and CVD, proposes practical recommendations and shared care pathways based on an analysis of the available scientific evidence and the clinical experience of the authors, aimed at facilitating decision-making and optimising the management of these patients.