Table 1.

Classification of severity of airflow limitation in COPD based on post-bronchodilator spirometry

GOLD category	FEV1
In patients with FEV1/FVC <0.70
1. Mild	FEV1 ≥80% predicted
2. Moderate	50% ≤FEV1 <80% predicted
3. Severe	30% ≤FEV1 <50% predicted
4. Very severe	FEV1 <30% predicted

Note: Reproduced with permission from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD).³

Abbreviations: COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; FEV₁, forced expiratory volume in one second; FVC, forced vital capacity.