Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – from Pathophysiology to Effective Management Overview

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are two chronic conditions with significant global impact and high incidence, frequently occurring as comorbidities. This article analyzes the particularities of pathophysiological, genetic, and epigenetic interactions, as well as the therapeutic implications in patients with both conditions. Additionally, the clinical management of these patients is investigated in correlation with updated international guidelines, such as the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2026 and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2026. The importance of rigorous monitoring, personalized treatment, and the use of modern therapies with proven benefits-including sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists-is highlighted. The conclusion emphasizes the necessity of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach aimed at preventing complications, reducing cardiovascular risk, and improving the quality of life in comorbid patients.