Implementation of the WHO Strategy for Prevention and Control of Chronic Respiratory Diseases

HCS & Chronic Respiratory Diseases: specific aspects

Among the problems listed above, two are of major and specific relevance for CRDs: proper training and equipment of Health Care Teams dedicated to CRDs and education of the patient with CRDs. Specific solutions have been identified.

Prepared and Equipped Health Care Teams requires:

1. Integration of public policies into the medical and nursing curricula and training
   a)    Education in the prevention and management of tobacco related diseases with particular attention given to CRD patients and pregnant women
   b)    Education on Diet and Nutrition over the life cycle

2. Adaptation of management guidelines for various CRDs appropriate for local services

3. Training in the use of management guidelines such as:
   a)    algorithms or symptom based guidelines at the level of first contact
   b)    specialist use of individual guidelines
   ¨    Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)
   ¨    Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)
   ¨    Recommendations for the Prevention of Allergy and Asthma (PAA)
   ¨    Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA)

4. Availability, affordability and regular maintenance of diagnostic equipment and emergency equipment and services

Motivated and Informed Patients

Adherence to long-term care notably in stable conditions is the weak link of CRDs.

Improvement in adherence requires that:

1. Patients are informed and trained to monitor and manage their own daily care via self-management guidelines

2. Treatment options are accessible and affordable, including:
   ¨    Pharmaceuticals
   ¨    Domiciliary oxygen for use in the home and
   ¨    Portable oxygen for use whilst exercising
   ¨    Counselling services
   ¨    Acute care emergency services (including appropriate availability of non-invasive ventilatory support)

Points for future Action by WHO: