Psychological characteristics of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a review.

Objective: The aim of this study was to review research on psychological characteristics in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and to summarize the findings of associations between psychological variables and various aspects of life, illness, and health in COPD patients.

Methods: The following databases were searched: Medline, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library.

Results: A total of 81 studies, published between 1968 and 2004, was identified.