History of Pulmonary Rehabilitation: An International Perspective

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) are a group of conditions affecting the respiratory system that includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, interstitial lung diseases, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and lung cancer. These diseases commonly present with dyspnea on exertion, fatigue, exercise intolerance, poor quality of life, and frequent exacerbations. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an evidence-based, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary therapy encompassing thorough evaluation and tailored management for people with CRD.