Cardiovascular disease and COPD

Hafidz Abdul Hadi
National Heart Institute, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently coexist and share common risk factors such as smoking, aging, and systemic inflammation. COPD is not only a lung disease but also a systemic condition that increases the risk of heart-related complications like ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.

The presence of CVD in COPD patients leads to worse clinical outcomes, including higher rates of hospitalization and mortality. Diagnosing CVD in COPD is often challenging because both conditions present with overlapping symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue. This overlap can lead to underdiagnosis or delayed treatment of heart disease in COPD patients.

Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach. Screening for cardiovascular disease should be part of routine COPD care, and medications like beta-blockers can often be used safely. Addressing both diseases together improves patient quality of life and reduces healthcare burden.

In summary, recognizing and managing the strong link between COPD and cardiovascular disease is crucial for improving outcomes in this high-risk population.