Do COPD Rates Differ by Veteran Status in Males 50-79 Years of Age?

Date

2019-03-05

Authors

Stellato, Jordan
Knutson, Kole
Vogler, Kelli
Whorley, Jourdan
Holmes, Victor L.
Hartos, Jessica

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Abstract

Purpose: With little research that compares the rate of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) status between the veteran population and the general population, the purpose of this study is to assess whether COPD rates differ by veteran status in males 50-79 years of age in the general population. Methods: This study was a cross sectional analyses using 2016 BRFSS data for males ages 50 to 79 in Arkansas (N=1,283), Montana (N=1,586), New Jersey (N=1,842), Tennessee (N=1,473), and West Virginia (N=1,854). Multiple Logistic Regression analyses were performed by state to determine whether COPD rates differed by veteran status when controlling for age, ethnicity, tobacco use, weight status, general health, asthma, income, education, and employment. Results: Across states, few participants reported having COPD (9-18%) and about one third were veterans (25-40%). After controlling for socioeconomic, demographic, and health influences, there was a significant consistent relationship between COPD and veteran status in three out of five states. There was also a significant consistent relationship between COPD and tobacco use, general health, and ever being diagnosed with asthma in five out of five states. Conclusion: The results found that in males ages 50-79, COPD rates were higher in veterans when compared to non-veterans. In addition, COPD was highly related to smoking, asthma, and general health. Providers should screen and treat COPD and any other health conditions to make sure they are managed properly. Most importantly, educate and refer smokers for treatment to assist with smoking cessation.

Description

Research Appreciation Day Award Winner - 2019 School of Health Professions, Physician Assistant Studies Poster Award - 2nd Place

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