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Obstructive lung disease among the urban homeless
Laurie D Snyder1, Mark D Eisner
1Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA.
Chest
|May 12, 2004
Summary
Obstructive lung disease (OLD) is more common in homeless individuals than the general population. Early identification and intervention are crucial for this vulnerable group.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Homelessness is a growing public health concern in the U.S.
- Homeless individuals face increased risks for respiratory issues due to smoking, poor nutrition, and environmental exposures.
- The prevalence of obstructive lung disease (OLD) among the homeless population is largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically assess the prevalence of obstructive lung disease (OLD) in an urban homeless population.
- To understand the respiratory health status of individuals experiencing homelessness.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in a San Francisco homeless shelter.
- 68 adults participated in surveys and spirometry assessments.
- OLD was assessed using respiratory symptoms, self-reported diagnoses (asthma, COPD), and spirometry (FEV1/FVC ratio < 0.70).
Main Results:
- The study found a high prevalence of current smokers (68%) and symptoms suggestive of OLD.
- 15% of homeless participants had spirometry-confirmed obstructive lung disease (OLD), more than double the expected rate in the general population.
- Significant proportions reported prior diagnoses of asthma (24%), chronic bronchitis (19%), and COPD (4%).
Conclusions:
- Homeless individuals exhibit a higher-than-expected prevalence of obstructive lung disease (OLD).
- Early identification and treatment of OLD are critical, as it is a leading cause of death.
- Public health initiatives should prioritize prevention and treatment of OLD in the homeless population.