Epidemiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a descriptive study in the mid-western region of Nepal

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to analyze the distribution of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in terms of time, place, and person among inpatients at the Mid Western Regional Hospital (MWRH) in Nepal. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out by analyzing trends using secondary data for the fiscal years 2006–2009 in the inpatient department of the MWRH. RESULTS: The majority of patients admitted for treatment of COPD were women (60%) and from higher ethnic groups (having a comparative advantage in terms of social and economic status), with a greater prevalence among those aged 60–69 years (37% of overall cases). The incidence of COPD increased in consecutive years, with the highest load during the winter months. The cases were most concentrated in places with easiest access to the hospital. CONCLUSION: COPD was found in higher proportions among women, those aged 60–69 years, and upper caste groups, during the cold months, and among residents of areas near the hospital in the mid-western region of Nepal. It is recommended that further detailed research and health education regarding COPD be carried out to reduce its burden and associated losses.