Visualizing Three Decades of COPD and Airway Mucus Hypersecretion Research: A Bibliometric Analysis (1994--2024)

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition with high prevalence and mortality, causing a substantial disease burden. Airway mucus hypersecretion (AMH) is clinically associated with impaired pulmonary function, diminished quality of life, and increased mortality in COPD patients. The purpose of this bibliometric research was to identify research developments and emerging hotspots within the field of AMH and COPD by providing a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape. METHODS: The Web of Science core (WOSCC) database was searched for publications addressing COPD and AMH from January 1, 1994, to December 31, 2024. A total of 1,405 publications were retrieved and subjected to bibliometric and visual analyses using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and R software. RESULTS: From 1994 to 2024, both publication output and citation frequency in this field demonstrated a sustained upward trajectory. The United States of America (USA) occupies a prominent position in this domain, characterized by substantial collaborative networks and research productivity. While extensive inter-country and inter-institutional collaborations were evident, researcher-level collaborations remained relatively fragmented. Notably, Boucher, Richard C. received substantial recognition owing to his exceptional research productivity and citation impact. Keywords including exacerbations, autophagy, and mucus plugs exhibited the strongest citation bursts during 2023--2024. Conclusions: This research illustrates the present landscape, focal points, and future directions in the fields of COPD and AMH. Researchers may benefit from obtaining a rapid synopsis, along with citations and innovative concepts, to facilitate and inform subsequent investigations.