The role of social support in improving chronic obstructive pulmonary disease self-management

1. Introduction

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition with distressing exacerbations – i.e. acute deteriorations in respiratory health – as a key characteristic. Its societal impact is significant as exacerbations contribute to impaired quality of life, and increased hospitalizations, mortality and healthcare costs [1]. The main COPD symptoms are dyspnea, fatigue, and cough, which seriously impact on activities of daily living, psychological distress, and social isolation [2].