Smoking and socioeconomic factors linked to acute exacerbations of COPD: analysis from an Asthma + Lung UK survey

Background Understanding the factors driving acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is key to reducing their impact on human health and well-being. Methods 5997 people with COPD, mean 66 years, 64% female, completed an online survey between December 2020 and May 2021 about living with COPD, developed by the charity Asthma + Lung UK. Results The 3731 (62.2%) survey participants reporting frequent (≥2/year) exacerbations were more likely to smoke (adjusted OR (AOR) 1.70, 95% CI 1.470 to 1.98), have lower annual household income (≤£20 000 (AOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.36 to 2.17), live in a cold and damp home (AOR 1.78, 95% CI 1.50 to 2.11) and report previous occupational exposure to dust, fumes and chemicals. Smokers were more likely to report attending hospital to manage their most recent acute exacerbation of COPD compared with ex-smokers (AOR 1.25, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.59). Discussion Strategies to improve COPD outcomes must address issues of deprivation and social justice.