During the winter there is an increased work-load for GPs due to the diffusion of influenza virus and respiratory tract diseases. "Burn out syndrome" is increasing among the GPs. Territorial GPs' action is highly efficacious. Patients self-certification should be evaluated. Vaccine therapy could be more effective if done on a larger population. More research is needed.

No abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients have poor knowledge about the disease. Until now, it has not been possible to check the information needs of these patients. The Lung Information Needs Questionnaire (LINQ), however, could fill this particular need. The aims of this study were to identify patient perceptions about COPD, and what information patients need, and to verify whether the questionnaire is comprehensible. Data demonstrate that LINQ is easily understood: 82% answered all questions with "I have properly understood the question". LINQ is quick to apply (approx. 6 min to complete). Sixty-seven per cent of patients had incorrect knowledge about their prognosis. Thirty-six per cent did not know when to call an ambulance. Eight per cent of smokers said that no one had ever told them to stop smoking. Compliance with therapy results was not sufficient. Patients had poor knowledge of the causes of COPD, and they knew little about the whys and wherefores of COPD treatment. LINQ represents a valid means of investigating patients afflicted with COPD and managing pathology control by the doctor and by the patient. LINQ represents a fundamental means of investigating otherwise-unknown COPD issues.