Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is one progressive respiratory disease that is featured with the progressive airflow limitation that significantly impacts the cardiovascular health. Among its most severe cardiac complications is chronic cor pulmonale, which features structural and functional modification of the right ventricle due to pulmonary hypertension. The knowledge of the prevalence in affected patients is vital in informing the earlier detection and management approaches in areas with limited healthcare coverage. Objective: To determine the frequency of chronic cor pulmonale in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Duration and Place of Study: The study was conducted from December 2024 to May 2025 at the Department of Pulmonology, Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Swat. Methodology: A total of 149 patients aged 40–75 years with confirmed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were enrolled. Diagnosis was established through clinical evaluation and spirometry showing a post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second to forced vital capacity ratio below 0.70. Chronic cor pulmonale was confirmed by echocardiography demonstrating right ventricular wall thickness greater than 0.6 cm and right ventricular diastolic diameter exceeding 26 mm. Results: The mean age of participants was 57.64 years, and 70.5% were male. Chronic cor pulmonale was identified in 68.5% of patients. Significant associations were found with socioeconomic status, residence, and education level, while other factors showed no meaningful relationship. Conclusion: Chronic cor pulmonale is highly prevalent among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphasizing the need for early detection and management to reduce morbidity.
Wahab et al. (2025) studied this question.