ABSTRACT
Chronic respiratory diseases represent a challenge in both industrialized and developing countries because of their frequency and economic impact [1]. Understanding the burden of health care utilization and costs is important in developing strategies for prevention and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), due to the fact that health planners in these countries have limited resources. COPD is a disease state characterized by chronic, progressive airflow limitation that is not fully reversible,with aprecise definition varying from different management guidelines [2]. COPD refers to disorders including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and a combination of the two disorders [3].
