“Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex respiratory disorder characterised by chronic airflow limitation and an increased inflammatory response of the lung. COPD is associated with many comorbidities and can be one of multiple chronic or acute diseases and medical conditions present within one person. In particular, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and COPD share similar risk factors such as ageing, history of cigarette smoking (or other exposures) and a sedentary lifestyle, and frequently coexist.”

European Respiratory Journal/The Respiratory Professionals Update on Medicine, Science and Surgery