Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is
one of the most common and complex chronic
diseases. Defined by the Global Initiative for
Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), COPD is the irreversible obstruction of air ways. It involves progressive limitation of the airways associated with an abnormal inflammatory response against particles as well as irritating and often hazardous gas. According to GOLD, this disease is estimated to rise from sixth to third position in the leading causes of death by the year 2020. Roughly, 10% of the population is affected by COPD in Iran. This disease is reported to be more prevalent in men with higher mortality and morbidity in individuals of lower socioeconomic position. The disease usually occurs in
patients coming from urban areas, symptoms emerge in middle ages and it is associated with aging. Smoking plays a crucial role in the onset and development of COPD and although oxygen therapy, drug therapy, and rehabilitation cause relative improvements, cessation of smoking is very
important in the prevention of the disease.