Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting more 390 million people. Effective management is critical for improving patient outcomes, yet challenges such as underdiagnosis, limited access to spirometry, and suboptimal use of established therapies persist. We have seen many exciting developments in recent years including increased attention to the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation, improved awareness of unmet needs of those needing oxygen delivery and in 2024, after years of no new treatments, the approval of the first biologic therapy for COPD and, in the US, approval of a novel nebulized treatment.

GAAPP is committed to sharing information that enhances healthcare professional awareness of care delivery excellence.

We are pleased to introduce two new educational fact sheets:

Nebulization Use in the Treatment of COPD (English) Nebulization Use in the Treatment of COPD (Arabic) COPD in Gulf Countries (English) COPD in Gulf Countries (Arabic)
  1. Nebulization Use in the Treatment of COPD: A Practical Guide

    Nebulization remains a crucial therapeutic option for COPD patients, particularly those with severe disease or difficulty using handheld inhalers. This fact sheet outlines:
    • The types of inhalation devices available, including metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs), soft mist inhalers, and nebulizers.
    • Benefits of nebulized therapy, including improved drug delivery, ease of use, and symptom relief.
    • The role of nebulization in COPD exacerbations, ensuring optimal absorption of bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
    • The importance of choosing the right nebulizer type based on individual patient needs and preferences.
    • Best practices for nebulizer use, including proper technique, cleaning, and patient education.


  2. COPD in Gulf Countries: Addressing Regional Challenges

    This second fact sheet provides an in-depth overview of the prevalence and risk factors associated with COPD in the Gulf region. Key highlights include:
    • COPD prevalence in Gulf countries, with rates higher among males (5.2%) when compared to females (1.8%).
    • Major risk factors, including smoking (31.2%), air pollution, and occupational exposures.
    • Challenges such as underdiagnosis, lack of spirometry access, and low medication adherence (<5% use of inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators).
    • Evidence-based treatment recommendations from the Saudi Thoracic Society, categorizing patients based on symptom severity and exacerbation risk.
    • The role of nebulizers in ensuring effective medication delivery, especially for patients with cognitive, motor, or neuromuscular limitations.

For more information on this topic, we refer you to a recent publication by Tashkin DP et al. titled, Prevalence and Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Gulf Countries with a Focus on Inhaled Pharmacotherapy. You can read the full article here.


GAAPP hopes to bring you more region- and country-based educational content about COPD in your part of the world.

Download the fact sheets here:

Nebulization Use in the Treatment of COPD (English)
Nebulization Use in the Treatment of COPD (Arabic)
COPD in Gulf Countries (English)
COPD in Gulf Countries (Arabic)

This education was supported by a grant from Viatris.