Risk Factors of Acute Exacerbation in COPD Patients visiting Emergency Ward

A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide with an economic and social burden that is both substantial and increasing. Chronic respiratory diseases are ranked as the second highest cause of death (10%), among the total mortality cause due to non-communicable diseases in Nepal. This study mainly aimed at evaluating the patients visiting at emergency ward for the risk factors associated with acute exacerbation of COPD. This will help plan for appropriate interventions to reduce the cases of exacerbation among COPD patients.

Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study which was carried out after taking approval from the institutional review board of National Academy of Medical Sciences. Using a structured proforma, this study evaluated the risk factors of acute exacerbation of COPD in patients who visited emergency department of Bir Hospital. Data was entered in excel sheet and analyzed.

Results: Out of 265 study participants, 63% were female and 36% were male. The proportion of participants aged older than 70 years and 61-70 years was 48% each. It was found that 11% had active smoking, 15 percent had ongoing alcohol consumption, and 43% had history of previous hospital admission. Nearly 40% of the patients were non-adherent to the prescribed previous medications.

Conclusion: There are multiple risk factors that contribute to acute exacerbation of COPD. There should be appropriate interventions such as proper patient counseling, behavior modification strategies and holistic management plan to minimize further exacerbation of COPD.