Critical appraisal of clinical practice guidelines targeting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

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Abstract
CHRONIC obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is widely prevalent in developed and developing countries.1 From the National Health Interview Survey conducted in the United States in 1993,2 the prevalence of COPD approximated 5%. A Canadian health survey reflected that, in 1994-1995, 6% of the population aged 55 years and older acknowledged the diagnosis of COPD having been made by a health professional.3 Similarly, European studies4 have indicated that 4% to 6% of the adult population has clinically relevant COPD. As COPD is so prevalent, treatment approaches recommended by professional organizations are likely to affect the attitudes and behaviors of health care professionals and the use of health care resources associated with its management.