Abstract
Introduction
In the 2011 GOLD update1, important changes in the severity classification have been introduced determining a possible positive implication in the disease management. The aim of this study is to better understand and characterize patient (pts) pharmacologic treatment pathways, with a particular focus on GOLD 2011 guideline in two different cohorts defined according to the rate of exacerbations (frequent [FE] ≥2 and non-frequent [NFE] up to 1 exacerbation).
Methods
This observational, longitudinal, multicenter study includes two cohorts (FE and NFE [1:1 ratio]) of pts (aged ≥ 40 yrs) with COPD and smoking history of ≥ 10 pack-yrs followed 3 yrs period. The primary objective is to describe the therapeutic approach in the 2 cohorts of pts with COPD during 3-yrs. Secondary outcomes are to evaluate, changes in COPD treatment management, clinical outcomes (CAT questionnaire, respiratory function and exacerbations, treatment persistence).
Results
The first 217 out of 1500 pts enrolled in the first 6 months with recorded e-CRF data 39% were FE and 61% were NFE. Characteristics of the two cohorts are presented (see table)
.
Conclusion
The preliminary results showed that FE have twice COPD duration, lower FEV1 and relatively younger as compared to NFE. The majority of pts are symptomatic, especially in the FE group in line with the expectations that exacerbations reduce quality of life.
- © 2014 ERS