Inflammatory status, hypertension and chronic cor pulmonale (CCP) are independently associated with length of hospital stay (LHS) in patients with acute exacerbation in COPD (AECOPD). Recent research carried out by a team of researchers from several hospitals and universities across China analysed 598 AECOPD patients to find that the rates of hypertension and chronic cor pulmonale (CCP), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were independent predictors of prolonged LHS in AECOPD patients. The researchers stressed on the importance of their findings as it indicates the need for early and appropriate administration of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs is essential for reducing LHS.