The Journal of Practical Medicine ›› 2025, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (16): 2441-2446.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-5725.2025.16.001

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Addressing the challenge of early COPD diagnosis at the primary care level: Reflections from public health policies to healthcare system development

Zhaoqian GONG,Wenqu ZHAO,Yaoxin CHEN,Haijin. ZHAO()   

  1. Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine,Nanfang Hospital,Southern Medical University,Guangzhou 510080,Guangdong,China
  • Received:2025-05-18 Online:2025-08-25 Published:2025-08-28
  • Contact: Haijin. ZHAO E-mail:zhjin@smu.edu.cn

Abstract:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a widespread chronic inflammatory respiratory condition characterized by high morbidity, affecting approximately 100 million individuals in China. It represents a significant public health concern and imposes considerable socioeconomic costs. Historically, the rate of early diagnosis for COPD has been low, presenting a persistent challenge in clinical practice. Enhancing early detection therefore remains a critical and urgent priority. This study provides a comprehensive review of existing national-level policies aimed at improving early COPD diagnosis within primary healthcare settings, as well as their regional implementation status. The dual objectives of this analysis are to support the enhancement of early diagnosis rates and to contribute to the optimization of COPD clinical management frameworks.

Key words: COPD, early diagnosis, grassroots level, clinical management frameworks

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