COPD Knowledge Strengthened Through Patient Experience and Education

A better understanding of their condition can be crucial for the long-term treatment success of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD). A recent analysis from the German COPD cohort COSYCONET 2, coordinated by the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), now shows: Experience with disease exacerbations and participation in educational programs significantly enhance COPD-specific knowledge and self-management skills.

The study included data from 310 patients with varying levels of disease severity (GOLD 0–4). Thirteen targeted questions assessed patient knowledge on terminology, breathing techniques, and how to handle acute deteriorations.

Results showed that patients who had experienced moderate to severe exacerbations were more likely to correctly understand the term “exacerbation,” use pursed-lip breathing, and know when to contact a physician. Advanced disease stages (GOLD 3/4) were also associated with better knowledge of breathing exercises.

Even more striking was the impact of participation in COPD education programs: Patients who had completed such programs scored higher across nearly all topics—especially when treated by a pulmonologist. Interestingly, female participants performed better than males in several areas.

Other factors such as education level, existence of a treatment plan, risk aversion, or depression scores played only a minor and inconsistent role.

The findings highlight the importance of targeted patient education. Particularly, knowledge areas deemed relevant by patients based on their own experiences—like handling exacerbations—should be a focus. This can support patients in understanding their illness and becoming more active in managing it.

.

Original publication: Fischer C, Siakavara M, Alter P, Vogelmeier CF, Speicher T, Pott H, Watz H, Bals R, Trudzinski F, Herth F, Ficker JH, Wagner M, Lange C, Stoycheva K, Randerath W, Behr J, Fähndrich S, Welte T, Pink I, Kahnert K, Seeger W, Kuhnert S, Gessler T, Adaskina N, Jörres RA. Association of Patients' Knowledge on the Disease and Its Management with Indicators of Disease Severity and Individual Characteristics in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Results from COSYCONET 2. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2024 Dec 2;18:2383-2393. doi: 10.2147/PPA.S488165. PMID: 39650575; PMCID: PMC11624521.