The partnership-based self-management programme had benefits concerning perception of the intrusiveness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its treatment on lifestyles, activities and interests for young patients with the disease in its early stages. High satisfaction in control group, low family attendance and the relatively short treatment period may explain the less than expected benefits of the programme.

Complex and comprehensive health needs of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their families may be effectively addressed in partnership centred on dialogue together with efficient intra-and interdisciplinary collaboration.