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Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory condition and
the fourth leading cause of death in Canada. However, little is known about the impact
of COPD on the lives and attitudes of individuals living with this condition. The
purpose of this study was to determine whether Canadians with COPD are properly educated
and supported, and to recommend solutions to any care gaps identified.
A total of 389 Canadians were surveyed who were 40 years of age and older, physician
diagnosed with COPD, and current or former smokers. The telephone survey contained
68 items and took 35 min to complete. COPD severity was classified according to symptom
severity using the Medical Research Council (MRC) score.
Respondents tended to overestimate their disease severity and reported substantial
symptom burden and psychosocial impact of living with COPD. Most individuals claimed
to be well informed about COPD; however, their knowledge was poor in several domains
including the causes of COPD, the consequences of inadequate therapy and the management
of exacerbations. Family physicians were the main health care providers. A minority
of respondents had seen a lung health educator. Only 34% had ever received a written
action plan and only 33% had been told how to prevent an exacerbation.
The symptom burden and psychosocial impact of living with COPD is substantial. There
are significant gaps in patients' knowledge about the management of COPD and little
contact with lung health educators. Increased use of COPD-specific, self-management
education programs may help rectify these care gaps.