Which guideline is widely used for the management of COPD?

The GOLD guidelines, which stand for Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease, are the most widely recognized and utilized guidelines specifically for the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). These guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for diagnosing, managing, and preventing COPD, emphasizing a range of treatment options from pharmacological interventions like bronchodilators to lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation. The GOLD guidelines are updated regularly to reflect the latest research and clinical practices, ensuring that healthcare providers have access to the most effective strategies for managing COPD.

In contrast, the ATS/ERS guidelines focus on various respiratory diseases, including asthma and lung diseases, but they are not exclusively dedicated to COPD. NICE guidelines cover a broader scope that includes multiple diseases and public health recommendations and may not emphasize COPD management specifically. GINA guidelines primarily address asthma care and management, rather than COPD, making them less relevant in this context. Therefore, the GOLD guidelines stand out as the authoritative source for COPD management.