HIGH PREVALENCE OF COPD SYMTOMS IN THE TUNISIAN POPULATION CONTRASTING WITH LOW AWARENESS OF THE DISEASE

Abstract

TYPE: Abstract TOPIC: Obstructive Lung Diseases PURPOSE: In Tunisia, the estimated prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was low compared with America and Europe and the disease is certainly under diagnosed. We have estimated the prevalence of COPD in the city of Sousse, following the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) protocol. METHODS: We surveyed a representative random sample of 807 adults aged 40 years+ selected from the general population and have collected information on respiratory history and symptoms, risk factors for COPD and health status. Post-bronchodilator spirometry was performed for assessment of COPD. COPD and its stages were defined according to GOLD guidelines. Population weighted prevalence of COPD were computed allowing for survey design. RESULTS: The estimated population prevalence of GOLD Stage 1 and stage 2 or higher COPD were 7.8% and 4.2%, respectively (LLN modified stage 1 and stage 2 or higher COPD prevalence were 5.3% and 3.8%, respectively). COPD was far more common in men, increased with age and exposure to tobacco smoke. Prevalence of stage 1+ COPD was 2.3% in <10 pack years smoked and 16.1% in 20+ pack years smoked. Only 3.5% of participants reported doctor-diagnosed COPD. CONCLUSIONS: In this Tunisian population, the prevalence of COPD is higher than reported before and higher than self-reported doctor-diagnosed COPD. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The implications for disease diagnosis and management in clinical practices might have a public health impact. In subjects with COPD, age seems to be a much more powerful predictor of lung function than smoking. LLN _ Lower Limit of Normal; BOLD. DISCLOSURE: Nothing to declare. KEYWORD: Respiratory diseases