Opportunistic screening for COPD among socially marginalized patients

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Public Health
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of premature death, with tobacco use as the primary risk factor.
• Socially marginalized individuals, including those experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, and mental illness, face elevated COPD risks and healthcare access barriers.
• Hospitalized patients interacting with social nurses represent a vulnerable group with high comorbidity and social challenges, warranting targeted health assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of COPD in a hospitalized population served by social nurses.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of opportunistic COPD screening in this high-risk group.
• To assess the impact of screening on patient outcomes, including survival rates.

Main Methods:

• Prospective longitudinal study design with baseline clinical examination and spirometry.
• Data collection includes interviews on risk factors, socioeconomic status, and respiratory symptoms.
• Five-year follow-up using baseline data and national registers for morbidity, medication use, healthcare contacts, mortality, and socioeconomic factors.

Main Results:

• Opportunistic screening is anticipated to identify undiagnosed COPD cases within this vulnerable population.
• Referral for diagnostic work-up and management, including smoking cessation, is expected to enhance survival.
• The study is currently enrolling patients, with ongoing data collection.

Conclusions:

• Opportunistic screening for COPD among socially marginalized hospitalized patients can facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.
• Targeted screening and management strategies are crucial for improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations.
• Further results are pending as the study continues enrollment and follow-up.