Trends in COPD Treatment in Primary Care (2010–2021)
Author Information
Author(s): Guilherme Rodrigues, Joana Antão, Qichen Deng, Brenda N. Baak, Alda Marques, Frits M. E. Franssen, Martijn A. Spruit
Primary Institution: University of Aveiro
Hypothesis
This study aims to analyze trends in the initial pharmacological treatment of newly diagnosed COPD patients in Dutch primary care from 2010 to 2021.
Conclusion
Significant shifts in initial pharmacological treatment for newly diagnosed COPD patients were observed between 2010 and 2021, possibly due to the introduction of new inhaler therapies and updated management strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 36% of newly diagnosed COPD patients did not receive a prescription for respiratory medication within 90 days post-diagnosis.
- LAMA monotherapy was the most prescribed maintenance therapy, followed by LABA-ICS.
- LABA-LAMA therapy increased significantly from 0.6% in 2010 to 9.6% in 2021.
Takeaway
Doctors have changed how they treat COPD over the years, but many patients still aren't getting the medicine they need right away.
Methodology
A repeated cross-sectional study using data from the PHARMO GP Database, analyzing electronic health records of COPD patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2021.
Potential Biases
Differences in treatment trends across age groups and sexes may suggest prescribing biases.
Limitations
Some individuals assumed to be without prescriptions may actually be receiving treatment from outside the PHARMO catchment area, and the diagnosis of COPD could not be confirmed due to lack of lung function data.
Participant Demographics
Median age of participants was 65 years, with 53.7% male.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.1, 6.9
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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