A healthcare professional sitting on a stool speaksing with a parent holding a child in a medical examination room.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Burden of exacerbations

Every COPD exacerbation leads to a significant decline in lung function
and a higher risk of subsequent exacerbations, all-cause mortality and
COPD-related mortality.1,2

COPD exacerbations often go unreported or are misdiagnosed altogether,
leading to inappropriate treatment and poorer recovery.3–5

COPD management aims to minimise acute symptoms and prevent future exacerbations through maintenance and preventive strategies; however,
the prevalence of uncontrolled disease highlights the need for novel treatments, to improve outcomes.6

A healthcare professional reviews information on a tablet with a standing patient during a consultation.

The burden of COPD exacerbations

Dive into our visual narrative of the burden of COPD exacerbations, highlighting the added impact of hospitalisation and increased mortality risks for patients experiencing exacerbations and the best approaches for reducing exacerbation risk.

NX-GB-CPU-BTHC-260002 I May 2026

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Diagram detailing the morbidity and mortality associated with exacerbations in COPD Diagram detailing the morbidity and mortality associated with exacerbations in COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

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Overview of COPD

The burden of COPD and its impact on patients' lives.

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A healthcare professional reviews information on a tablet with a standing patient during a consultation.

Personalised care

The role of Treatable Traits and management strategies in delivering personalised COPD care.

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Two scientists in lab coats work together at a lab bench, examining samples and recording results.

Type 2 inflammation

The pathophysiological processes and cellular impact of type 2 inflammation in COPD.

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Community care

Integrated care for patient 
self-management in 
community settings.

Coming soon

Abbreviations

COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

References

  1. Halpin DMG, et al. Respir Med 2017:128:85–91;
  2. Whittaker H, et al. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2022;17:427–437;
  3. Calderazzo MA, et al. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2019;14:823–832;
  4. Hurst JR, et al. Eur J Intern Med 2020:73:1–6;
  5. Barnes N, et al. BMC Pulm Med 2013;13:54;
  6. Vogelmeier CF, et al. Respir Med 2020;166:105938.

Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or search for MHRA Yellowcard in the Google Play or Apple App store. Adverse events should also be reported to GSK on 0800 221 441 or UKSafety@gsk.com

May 2026 | NP-GB-CPU-WCNT-260004 (V1.0)