AB 76. The contribution of spirometry in early diagnosis of COPD in the region of Echinos Xanthi

Background: COPD is a gradually progressive disease, which may be prevented and treated. It appears in 8.9% of the general population and is responsible for 2.75 million deaths annually. Aim of the study was to investigate the underdiagnosis of COPD of general population in the region of Echinos Xanthi.

Patients and methods: Spirometry was conducted on 50 people of the general population in Echinos Xanthi (39 males and 11 females), aged 32-82, who had no previous history of COPD. Diagnosis and staging of COPD was established according to GOLD, while diagnosis of smallairway disease (as a precursor form of COPD) was determined in individuals having FEF 25-75% <70%, who had normal range of FEV1, FVC and FEV1%.

Results: There were four cases (8%) in which COPD was established, two of which had stage II and two had stage III of the disease. There were another nine cases (18%) with small-airway disease, while two people (4%) had symptoms of chronic bronchitis, without however spirometric findings consistent with obstruction. More than half of the people examined (64%) had never consulted a lung specialist. 8 out of 13 (61.5%) in whom the diagnosis of COPD or small-airway disease was established, had sought specialized medical care in the past (particularly 5 of 8 during the last year), without however being diagnosed with the disease or its precursor forms.

Conclusions: Τhe significant role of spirometry is confirmed in the diagnosis of COPD and small-airway disease along with the necessity for increased awareness on behalf of patients and medical body alike for early diagnosis. The data also confirms the role of primary and preventive care, in curtailing the progression of COPD.