This is a cross-sectional analysis of individuals with COPD enrolled in the CPASS study which comprises forty (40) study sites within the Philippines. We included 1,982 adult participants fulfilling the fixed-ratio spirometry definition of COPD as a post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC < 0.7. Demographic data and clinical characteristics of patients were collected, including data on comorbid diseases, medical treatments, health care utilization, COPD medications, previous exacerbations, and exposure to toxic substances. Symptoms were assesd using mMRC scale and the CAT score.

Among 1982 participants included, 91% (n=1803) had a history of cigarette smoking without any significant difference in the smoking history across GOLD groups (p=0.701). There are 379 (19.1%) current smokers at the time of screening with significantly highest percentage (n=75, 26%) among GOLD A patients (p=0.002). In terms of exposure to biomass fuel, 948 (47.8%) participants were exposed with significantly higher percentages of exposure among GOLD C (53.1%) and D (51.5%) groups (p = 0.026). Risk of exposure to noxious gases and history of PTB infection were present in 383 (19.3%) and 893 (45.1%), respectively. There is no statistically significant difference in terms of exposure to these two risk factors.

This large study in the Philippines has revealed new insights on the most common risk factors for COPD in the country. This will help policy makers craft urgent preventive action plans, which include smoking cessation programs, awareness and education on the effects of environmental tobacco smoke as well as exposure to biomass or noxious gases.