COPD, Depression and COVID-19 Pandemic: A Harrowing, Demoralizing and Deleterious Triad

Abstract

COPD is a highly incapacitating global public health problem, with pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations and usually associated with significant concomitant chronic diseases. With enhanced understanding, it has extensively been reported as a complex, heterogeneous and dynamic disease affecting patients’ health beyond pulmones. Depression, with prevalence of 322 million people, is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. In various epidemiological and clinical studies, its prevalence among patients with COPD varies from 18% to 80%. This deadly duo leads to excessive health care utilization rates and costs including increased rates of exacerbation, sub-optimal adherence to prescribed medications, increased hospital admissions, longer hospital stays and increased hospital readmissions. Moreover, there is increased risk of suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and suicidal drug overdose. It is a pity that, in significant cases, the co-morbidity remains under-recognized and under-treated. The impact of prevailing COVID 19 pandemic, on the dual burden of COPD and depression, and possible remedial measures including “The 6 ways to boost one’s well-being-by Mental Heath UK, “The Living with the Times” toolkit--by WHO” and innovative add-ons like Dance Movement Therapy and Musical Engagement Therapy have been discussed.