TY  -  JOUR
AU  -  Foschino Barbaro, Maria Pia
AU  -  Carpagnano, Elisiana
AU  -  Rogliani, Paola
AU  -  Barbaglia, Simona
AU  -  Bernardi, Lara
AU  -  Stabile, Carmen
AU  -  Arpinelli, Fabio
T1  -  Gender differences in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease perception and management: insights from an Italian advisory board
PY  -  2026
Y1  -  2026-05-01
DO  -  10.1723/4737.47522
JO  -  Journal of Sex- and Gender-Specific Medicine
JA  -  J Sex Gender Specif Med
VL  -  12
IS  -  2
SP  -  61
EP  -  66
PB  -  Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore
SN  -  2974-8623
Y2  -  2026/07/26
UR  -  http://dx.doi.org/10.1723/4737.47522
N2  -  Summary. The impact of sex on the presentation and outcomes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is attracting increasing attention. While COPD affects both men and women, its prevalence is rising more rapidly among women. To better understand the experiences and expectations of women living with COPD, the role of patient associations, and how pulmonologists perceive the disease in female patients, we convened a virtual advisory board on the topic. Women with COPD reported delays in diagnosis, often having been initially misdiagnosed with asthma. Coming to terms with the disease and developing a desire to improve their health were identified as crucial steps in their journey. The president of a patient association highlighted limited awareness and training on COPD among general practitioners as a major contributor to diagnostic delays, particularly in female patients. This may be partly due to the fact that women are often less likely to seek help, being more accustomed to providing care and support to their families. From both emotional and social standpoints, sex-related differences emerged in how symptoms are perceived, how patients communicate with physicians, and how they accept and cope with symptoms, especially dyspnea.
ER  -