COPD exacerbations: finally, a more than ACCEPTable risk score

Abstract

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with substantial respiratory morbidity, including major deterioration in functional status, accelerated decline of lung function, and mortality. Prevention of these exacerbations is imperative. To date, the strongest identified risk factor for future exacerbations seems to be history of previous exacerbations. However, this information does not provide any warning of a first exacerbation, which in many individuals can be a sentinel event in their disease course.