Assessment of Sociodemographic Status of COPD Patients Admitted in a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable disease but there is not yet a cure, and responsible for early mortality, high death rates and significant cost to health systems. Not only in Bangladesh but also around the globe, the incidence of COPD is increasing and becoming an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Sociodemographic status is very influential for its aetiopathogenesis, disease progression, acute exacerbation, need for rescue therapy, management and prognosis of disease. So by assessing and observing the socioeconomic status, it is possible to improve the quality of life as well as the reduction of mortality and morbidity of COPD patients. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Faridpur Medical College Hospital (FMCH) over 6 months. Sample size was 100 and all were above 40 years of age of both gender. Results: The maximum (34%) were in the age group of 51-60 years, next 28% were in 61-70 years group and 12% were above 70 years. The mean ± SD age was (58.13 ± 9.96) years. Male were 84% of study population; male and female ratio was 5.25:1. The largest number were farmers (39%), then 22% were daily workers, 10% were businessmen, 9% were service holders and most of the female respondents were housewives. Maximum patients (42%) lived in villages, 30% in district and 28% in thana. Regarding income- 60% respondents earn between 10,000 to 14,999 Tk per month, 22% earn 15000 to 20,000, 10% earn more than 20,000 and 8% were below 10,000. In this study 91% patients were smoker and most of them were male. These factors related to sociodemographic status have an important influence for disease course and outcome. Conclusions: Smoking habits, poor socioeconomic condition, increasing age and use of biomass fuels for cooking in females, are important predisposing factors for COPD in our country