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Prevalence of COPD in Greece
Nikolaos Tzanakis1, Urania Anagnostopoulou, Vassiliki Filaditaki
1Department of Thoracic Medicine, University of Crete, Medical School, Greece.
Chest
|March 10, 2004
Summary
The prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Greece among adults over 35 with a smoking history is 8.4%. Men have a higher prevalence (11.6%) than women (4.8%), with smoking intensity and age being significant factors.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant global health concern.
- The prevalence of COPD in Greece was previously undetermined.
- High smoking rates in Greece suggested a potentially high COPD burden.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of COPD among adults in Greece.
- To investigate trends and demographic variations in COPD prevalence.
- To assess the association of risk factors with COPD in the Greek population.
Main Methods:
- A population-based, multiregional, cross-sectional descriptive study.
- 888 adults aged over 35 with a history of smoking ≥100 cigarettes were randomly identified.
- COPD diagnosis utilized clinical assessment, spirometry, and a reversibility test (DeltaFEV(1) < 15%).
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of COPD in the target population was 8.4%.
- Gender-standardized prevalence was 11.6% for men and 4.8% for women.
- Prevalence varied by community setting (Athens 6%, urban 10.1%, semi-urban 8.5%, rural 9.1%), with smoking intensity and age significantly associated with higher COPD rates.
Conclusions:
- COPD represents a substantial health issue in Greece, with prevalence rates lower than anticipated given high smoking rates.
- A significant proportion of individuals with mild COPD remain undiagnosed.
- There is a critical need to enhance public awareness regarding COPD in Greece.