Lung Health in the Solomon Islands: A Mixed Methods Study.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Global Health

Background:

• Limited data exists on lung disease prevalence in the Solomon Islands, a nation of 600,000 people across 900 islands.
• Obstructive lung disease (OLD) poses a significant, understudied health burden in the region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of obstructive lung disease (OLD) in Gizo, Solomon Islands.
• To identify risk factors for respiratory diseases within this population.
• To review current respiratory disease management through an emergency department (ED) audit.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study combining a population-based, cross-sectional survey with spirometry and an ED record audit.
• 104 randomly selected individuals in Gizo underwent questionnaires and spirometry.
• Gizo Hospital ED records were audited for respiratory presentations and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was 3.2%, with an additional 9.7% showing bronchodilator responsiveness suggestive of asthma.
• High rates of current smoking (24.0%) and regular indoor wood fire smoke exposure (51.5%) were observed.
• Respiratory conditions were common ED presentations, yet spirometry was unavailable, and inhaled asthma medications were rarely prescribed.

Conclusions:

• A substantial burden of obstructive lung disease exists in the Solomon Islands, associated with high smoking and indoor smoke exposure.
• Respiratory symptoms frequently lead to ED visits, indicating a need for improved diagnostic and management strategies.
• Inpatient and outpatient asthma treatment, particularly inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, is underutilized in Gizo.