COPD care programme can reduce readmissions and in-patient bed days.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common disease worldwide with significant morbidity and mortality.

Aim: To investigate the effect of a comprehensive COPD management programme in decreasing COPD readmissions 1 year before and 1 year after the programme.

Method: 185 (166 males) patients admitted for acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) were recruited between September 2010 and December 2012.

Evaluation of the asthma control test: a reliable determinant of disease stability and a predictor of future exacerbations.

Background And Objective: This study assessed the asthma control test (ACT) cut-off values for asthma control according to the Global Initiative for Asthma guideline in adults and the effectiveness of ACT scores in predicting exacerbations and serial changes in ACT scores over time in relation to treatment decisions.

Methods: Subjects completed ACT together with same-day spirometry and fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement at baseline and at 3 months. Physicians, blinded to the ACT scores and FeNO values, assessed the patient's asthma control in the past month and adjusted the asthma medications according to management guidelines.