This session will be presented by Anne Rodman.
This session will cover the importance of empowering patients to self-manage their COPD. Key factors that can affect self-management will be explored, including health literacy, health beliefs and behaviour change theories. Understanding patient education needs is vital: these could include the benefits of tobacco reduction, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy BMI in COPD and coping with breathlessness. Another key aspect of successful self-management is recognition of flare-ups and positive actions to take, alongside goal setting to encourage positive health behaviours.