Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and abdominal aortic aneurysms

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Pulmonology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Chronic obstructive airways disease (COPD) is a common condition in older adults.
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious vascular condition with significant morbidity and mortality.
• Screening for AAA in at-risk populations can aid early detection and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in elderly patients with chronic obstructive airways disease (COPD).
• To investigate the association between COPD severity, smoking, and other risk factors with AAA prevalence.

Main Methods:

• Prospective screening of 362 outpatients aged over 65 with COPD using ultrasonography.
• Collection of data on pulmonary function tests, cardiovascular risk factors, and medication use.
• Statistical analysis to compare AAA prevalence based on COPD severity and risk factors.

Main Results:

• A prevalence of 9.9% for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) (diameter >= 30 mm) was observed in the COPD patient cohort.
• Patients with severe emphysema (FEV/VC < 55%) showed a significantly higher prevalence of AAA compared to those with mild/moderate COPD.
• A significantly higher proportion of smokers were identified in the group with AAA compared to those without.

Conclusions:

• Elderly patients with COPD have a notable prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
• Severe emphysema and a history of smoking are associated with an increased risk of AAA in COPD patients.
• Ultrasonographic screening for AAA in COPD patients, particularly those with severe emphysema and smoking history, is warranted.