Abstract
<jats:p>This chapter describes the clinical presentations of two respiratory diseases that are commonly associated with a particularly high prevalence of undernutrition, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and tuberculosis (TB). It includes the mechanisms by which they are associated with undernutrition, the evidence for nutritional assessment, and support at various stages of the diseases. As COPD patients readily pass between primary and secondary care, routine nutritional screening should be performed in all patients across both settings. Dietary intake studies demonstrate that stable patients with COPD consume close to recommended daily amounts for both energy and protein whilst at home. The most common dietetic diagnosis is likely to be related to undernutrition. Nutritional assessment and intervention are critical in the holistic management of acute and chronic respiratory disease.</jats:p>