Which treatment has been shown to improve mortality in COPD patients?

In patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), supplemental oxygen has been demonstrated to significantly improve mortality rates, particularly in those who have chronic hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood). Long-term oxygen therapy has been shown to prolong survival and improve the quality of life in patients with severe COPD who are at risk for respiratory failure or have a history of hypoxemia. It is specifically indicated for patients with resting arterial blood oxygen tensions of 55 mmHg or less, or those with oxygen saturations less than 88% while at rest or during exertion.

While inhaled corticosteroids, beta agonists, and corticosteroid injections can provide symptomatic relief and improve lung function by reducing inflammation or dilating airways, they do not demonstrate the same direct impact on mortality associated with supplemental oxygen. Inhaled corticosteroids can reduce the frequency of exacerbations but do not improve survival rates. Beta agonists primarily help in symptom relief and improving airflow but lack evidence for mortality benefit. Corticosteroid injections are not typically a standard treatment option for COPD and are more relevant in other contexts. Thus, supplemental oxygen stands out as the treatment with a proven effect on improving mortality in COPD patients.