Comparison of the health-related quality of life of community dwelling patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the general population

Abstract

Background The goal of care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not only diagnosis and treatment, but also improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study compared the HRQoL of community dwelling patients with COPD and the general population, using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Methods We defined COPD groups among patients with less than 70% of forced expiratory volume in 1 second value (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio in a pulmonary function test. To control for covariates that affect HRQoL, we used propensity score matching with a 1:1 ratio. Finally, 2,230 people were analyzed in both the COPD and non-COPD groups. Results There were no significant differences between COPD and matched non-COPD groups on the EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), after adjusting for clinico-socioeconomic status (e.g., age, sex, education, household income level, marital status, BMI, current smoking, drinking and comorbidities). However, according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria, as the severity of COPD increased, HRQoL decreased. In particular, this difference was prominent in the domain related to physical health. Conclusion Proper community support and financial stability might be important for the maintenance of HRQoL of persons with COPD, in addition to early detection and treatment.