Active screening for COPD among hospitalized smokers - a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Internal Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Spirometry is crucial for early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in at-risk individuals, particularly smokers.
• Hospitalized patients in pulmonary and cardiology departments represent a key demographic for COPD screening.
• Evaluating active screening strategies in this inpatient setting is essential for improving diagnostic rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of an active screening strategy for COPD among hospitalized smokers.
• To determine the prevalence of COPD in this specific patient population.
• To characterize newly diagnosed COPD patients within the inpatient setting.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study conducted in February-March 2019 involved hospitalized smokers aged 40 and above.
• Participants completed a questionnaire and underwent spirometry with a bronchial reversibility test.
• Medical students utilized portable spirometers for measurements.

Main Results:

• Out of 188 eligible patients, 116 were included after 37% declined participation.
• Spirometry was correctly performed by 94% of included patients.
• COPD was diagnosed in 32% of patients, with 28% being newly diagnosed, predominantly with mild-to-moderate airway obstruction.

Conclusions:

• The implemented diagnostic strategy effectively enhances COPD detection in hospitalized patients.
• Newly diagnosed COPD cases frequently present with mild-to-moderate airway obstruction.
• Ex-smokers with subtle respiratory symptoms are a priority group for COPD screening.