What is the main goal of pulmonary rehabilitation?

The main goal of pulmonary rehabilitation is to improve quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases. This comprehensive program is designed to help patients enhance their physical functioning, reduce symptoms, increase exercise tolerance, and foster emotional well-being. It generally includes a combination of education, physical training, nutritional counseling, and psychological support tailored to the specific needs of individuals with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or other pulmonary disorders. By focusing on these areas, pulmonary rehabilitation helps patients achieve better overall health, enhances their ability to engage in daily activities, and ultimately leads to a more fulfilling life despite their respiratory limitations.

While curing respiratory diseases is an important area of medical research, pulmonary rehabilitation does not aim for a complete cure but rather for symptom management and improved functioning. Prevention of lung cancer predominantly involves lifestyle modifications and risk factor management, while promotion of medication adherence is a component of treatment strategies but not the primary focus of rehabilitation programs.