Gender Differences in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Using the Lung Information Needs Questionnaire

Aim: To investigate gender-related information needs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using the Lung Information Needs Questionnaire (LINQ). Design: Cross-sectional, prospective cohort study. Methods: Patients with COPD receiving standardized self-management education including information regarding disease knowledge, medications, avoidance of exacerbation, smoking cessation, exercise, and nutrition were included. Gender differences were assessed by pulmonary function tests, 6-minute walking test, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, and LINQ. Results: A total of 122 patients were enrolled. Females displayed significantly higher information needs for total LINQ score (p < .001), avoidance of exacerbation (p < .03), and nutrition (p < .006). Significant correlations were seen between total LINQ score and gender (p = .001), forced expiratory volume in 1 second, % predicted (p = .003), and Mini-Mental State Examination (p = .002) for male patients. In females, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale was correlated with the total LINQ score (p = .04).