Lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease association: epidemiology, diagnostic and treatment aspects

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer (LC) occupy first place among diseases with high incidence and mortality and become a genuine health problem through costs for the medical system. COPD is considered an independent risk factor for LC, in addition to smoking and occupational exposure. Prevention policies and early diagnosis and treatment may contribute to the decrease in the incidence of both diseases. This article reviews the epidemiological overlaps between the two diseases and the particular features of the diagnosis and treatment of LC in COPD patients.