Exploring the Treatment Types and Challenges in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: World Health Organisation (WHO) indicates Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to be emerging as the third leading cause of mortality by 2030. COPD not only affects the healthcare system of a country, but also the quality of life of patients and their families. Prevalence of COPD among Pakistani adults aged 40+ was found to be 2.1%; however, the research on patient’s perspectives regarding the challenges faced in the diagnosis and management of COPD in Pakistan is still lacking. Therefore, the authors in this study aim to explore and document the barriers affecting the management of COPD by the patients and their families/care takers. Methods: It is a qualitative study conducted within the boundaries of Islamabad capital territory and district Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The data was collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews conducted with the respondents who included patients of COPD (n=8) as well as their treatment supporter(s) (n=7), recruited from the OPD wards of three hospitals (two public and one private hospital). Conclusion: The study shows that COPD patients not only face challenges in their physical health, but also in socio-economic and psychological domains that are equally harmful. It highlights varying notions of the respondents as to how treatment-seeking of COPD posed challenges in their lifestyles, at both, household and individual levels. Patients with COPD need high levels of input from healthcare facilities; hence, health care professionals should be trained in case management of COPD. Key words: Non-communicable diseases, chronic diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, patient’s perspective