Chronic respiratory diseases refer to the group of diseases that affect the airways or structures of the lungs. Among the most common ones are asthma and the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Risk factors for the development of these conditions include exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, and frequent respiratory infections, among others. Treatment options focus on the appropriate management of the inflammatory dimension of the disease and, when necessary, the dilation of airways in order to improve respiratory capacity and ultimately quality of life.

Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to provide evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic recommendations, educate on the correct use of inhalation devices and provide general advice on how to promote nasal and respiratory hygiene and mitigate the impact of risk factors through smoking cessation services and others.