National and international guidelines for COPD: the need for evidence.

The introduction of guidelines for the management of asthma has led to standardization of management and better care of patients with the condition. Many national and international respiratory societies have developed guidelines for COPD. The World Health Organization and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute are jointly developing guidelines that will present evidence-based recommendations for the management of COPD. The guidelines will discuss the definition, epidemiology, natural history, risk factors, pathology, and diagnosis of COPD. There will be guidance on the management of chronic disease and acute exacerbations, education, prevention, and socioeconomics.