Predictive factors of acute exacerbation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Wang Nam Yen Hospital, Sakaeo Province

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health concern both globally and in Thailand. Acute exacerbations in COPD patients significantly increase the risk of hospitalization and mortality. At Wang Nam Yen Hospital, an upward trend in COPD cases has been observed annually. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with acute exacerbations among COPD patients. The study population comprised 250 COPD patients who received treatment at Wang Nam Yen Hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2024. Of these, 106 patients experiencing acute exacerbations formed the case group, while 144 patients without exacerbations served as the control group. Data were collected using medical record forms of COPD patients treated at Wang Nam Yen Hospital, Sakaeo Province. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Factors significantly associated with acute exacerbations in COPD patients included comorbid hypertension (adjusted OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.12–4.75, p < 0.05), congestive heart failure (adjusted OR = 2.94, 95% CI = 1.02–8.45, p < 0.05), and a history of two or more acute exacerbations per year (adjusted OR = 35.74, 95% CI = 12.67–67.80, p < 0.001). In conclusion, factors associated with acute exacerbations in COPD patients include hypertension, congestive heart failure (CHF), and a history of frequent exacerbations. Therefore, it is essential to implement screening and close monitoring for patients with these risk factors. Additionally, enhancing the capacity of healthcare personnel in the management of COPD is crucial to accommodate the increasing trend of COPD cases in the future.