Physicians’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the use of glucocorticoids in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Objective This study aims to investigate physicians’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the use of glucocorticoids in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2024 in China, spearheaded by the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine. A self-designed structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and assess participants’ KAP scores. Results A total of 359 valid responses were included in the analysis. Of the participants, 211 (58.77%) were female, and 260 (72.42%) had attended relevant lectures or training. The mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 45.96 ± 7.80 (range: 11–55), 51.83 ± 5.14 (range: 12–60), and 32.39 ± 4.69 (range: 8–40), respectively. The Structural equation modeling showed that department ( β = −3.25, p < 0.001), involvement in teaching ( β = −2.93, p < 0.001), average number of COPD patients consulted ( β = 1.28, p < 0.001), and training attendance ( β = −3.42, p < 0.001) had a direct impact on knowledge. Knowledge ( β = 0.29, p < 0.001) directly influenced attitude, while both knowledge ( β = 0.29, p < 0.001) and attitude ( β = 0.30, p = 0.014), along with training attendance ( β = −1.52, p < 0.001), directly affected practice. Conclusion Physicians demonstrated adequate knowledge, positive attitude, and proactive practice regarding glucocorticoid use in COPD management. Targeted educational programs, particularly for specific departments and teaching staff, are recommended to enhance knowledge and optimize glucocorticoid use in COPD treatment.