Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes are now a fundamental part of the clinical management of patients with chronic respiratory diseases. This comprehensive reference book places pulmonary rehabilitation within the wider framework of respiratory disease, and the health burden that this now poses worldwide. Part one of the book examines the evidence supporting the use of pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, new trends and socio-economic implications, and the scientific bases of techniques used. In part two, the reader is given important guidance on assessing patients for rehabilitation and what the cost implications are for patients and the health care system. The last part of the book provides a general overview and discusses specific problems of delivering pulmonary rehabilitation. Throughout the book, contributions drawn from a broad range of countries compare and contrast practice around the world where differences have developed, and discuss the clinical evidence that supports current thinking.