Module 1: Introduction to COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of death and disability in the United States that imposes a particularly large burden on rural populations. This module provides an overview of COPD and the unique challenges of COPD prevention and management in rural settings. This module will provide important information needed before implementing a program to prevent and/or manage COPD in a rural community.

For general information on what to consider as you start your program, see Creating a Program: Where to Begin in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.

In this module:

• Overview of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rural Areas
• Challenges to Addressing Rural COPD
• The National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's COPD National Action Plan