Resolution of the Expert Council on current issues in early diagnosis and management of COPD by primary care physicians. Tiotropium bromide role in baseline therapy

Abstract

Expert Council on current issues in early diagnosis and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by primary care physicians held in St. Petersburg on June 6, 2025. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains the most prevalent chronic respiratory disease worldwide. Despite active coverage and ongoing implementation of both global and national clinical guidelines for COPD into routine practice, a range of issues surrounding early diagnosis and timely, effective management of COPD remain unresolved. These challenges are partly due to significant knowledge gaps among primary care physicians. Further scientific discussions at professional forums, along with broader involvement of general practitioners, internists, and primary care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, and exacerbation prevention of COPD, could have a positive impact on the quality of care and reduce mortality among patients with COPD. The availability of tiotropium bromide as a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (200-dose), newly introduced to the pharmaceutical market in the Russian Federation, offers an accessible option for initial maintenance therapy in COPD, with the potential to decrease the financial burden on patients, improve adherence to therapy and quality of life, and reduce the frequency of disease exacerbations.