Abstract
OPD continues to be one of the commonest causes of increasing morbidity and mortality globally.While cardiovacular (CVD) and cerebrovascular diseases are decreasing over the years,COPD is the fourth leading cause of death,thanks to continuing smoking habits,atmospheric and industrial pollution. Lack of awareness and late diagnosis add insult to injury. Associated comorbidities such as CVD musculoskeletal disorders and infective exacerbations are not often recognised. (Chabra SK et al.Indian J Chest Dis Allied Sci 2010;52:225-238). Recognition of comorbidities associated withCOPD and concurrent management will go a long way in reducing morbidity and even mortality. The situation is worse in developing countries where diabetes,alcoholic liver diseases and human immunodeficient diseases are rampant and hence this communication. All patients with recurrent cough,dyspnea and chest pain exposed to smoking habits and/or other pollutants were screened, They were subjected to spirometry,imaging studies,metabolic/biochemical lab evaluation, and EKG. Diagnosis was established by the GOLD criteria and comorbidities by relevent clinical evaluation and relevat lab studies.
Results: There were 110 patients in the age group 35-75 years. The majority were males and smokers (95%). Commonest comorbidities were musculoskeletal (30%) and CVD (37%). Infective exacerbations contributed to 20%. More than one was present in few cases.The overall course of the disease was related to patient age,smoking pack year,genetic susceptibility,diabetes and above all treatment compliance.
Mortality in COPD is more often cardiac rather than respiratory causes. Regular physician/community medical education is recommended at regional levels.
- © 2011 ERS