This article enables the reader to understand the newest scientific concepts and advances in
the field of self-management in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, recognize the
importance of self-management education and what might be needed to enhance behavior
modification, and translate these advances into strategies and specific interventions in
clinical practice.

The individual patient's needs, own preferences and personal goals should inform the
design of any intervention with a behavioral component. A continuous loop process has to
be implemented to constantly assess what work and does not work, aiming at achieving the
desired outcomes for a given patient.