Polish and World spirometry days – Three years of research experience on causes and consequences of obstructive diseases in Poland

Abstract

Background: There is still no sufficient knowledge on causes, symptoms and consequences of obstructive diseases in Polish society. Spirometry Days are some of the methods to enhance the awareness of these diseases. Material: 18245 people were examined. Medical interview and pulmonary function test were completed. Information on occurrence of respiratory diseases symptoms, allergies, smoking and detailed data on the place of residence were collected. Final analyses encompassed the results of 3181 people. Results: We identified 704 cases of obstruction (234 in 2013, 187 in 2014, 283 in 2015) which is 22.1% of the analysed group. For 1902 people (59.8% of the whole group) it was the first spirometry test in their life. Among them 351 cases of obstruction were found. Amid people who have not previously been diagnosed with asthma or COPD (N=2795), obstruction was diagnosed in 547 individuals (19.6% of this group). Generally mean values of FEV 1 , FVC and FEV 1 /FVC met the GOLD guidelines. Decreasing pulmonary function was however observed in smokers, but also in non-smokers living in cities (FEV 1 lower by 4.5-9.8% as compared to rural areas inhabitants) and closer to roads with high traffic density (FEV 1 lower by 5.4% in people living 150m from road). Conclusion: Screening tests (similar to those conducted during Spirometry Days) and promotion of appropriate knowledge are of great importance. They may increase awareness on chronic respiratory diseases and their relationship with smoking and quality of the environment Otherwise significant part of the Polish population will still be unknowingly living with obstructive disease.