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Heraganahally SS, Gibbs C, Ravichandran SJ, Erdenebayar D, Abeyaratne A, Howarth T. Factors influencing survival and mortality among adult Aboriginal Australians with bronchiectasis-A 10-year retrospective study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1366037. [PMID: 38774399 PMCID: PMC11106411 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1366037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of bronchiectasis among adult Aboriginal Australians is higher than that of non-Aboriginal Australians. However, despite evidence to suggest higher prevalence of bronchiectasis among Aboriginal people in Australia, there is sparce evidence in the literature assessing clinical parameters that may predict survival or mortality in this population. Methods Aboriginal Australians residing in the Top End Health Service region of the Northern Territory of Australia aged >18 years with chest computed tomography (CT) confirmed bronchiectasis between 2011 and 2020 were included. Demographics, body mass index (BMI), medical co-morbidities, lung function data, sputum microbiology, chest CT scan results, hospital admissions restricted to respiratory conditions and all-cause mortality were assessed. Results A total of 459 patients were included, of whom 146 were recorded deceased (median age at death 59 years). Among the deceased cohort, patients were older (median age 52 vs. 45 years, p = 0.023), had a higher prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (91 vs. 79%, p = 0.126), lower lung function parameters (median percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s 29 vs. 40%, p = 0.149), a significantly greater proportion cultured non-Aspergillus fungi (65 vs. 46%, p = 0.007) and pseudomonas (46 vs. 28%, p = 0.007) on sputum microbiology and demonstrated bilateral involvement on radiology. In multivariate models advancing age, prior pseudomonas culture and Intensive care unit (ICU) visits were associated with increased odds of mortality. Higher BMI, better lung function on spirometry, prior positive sputum microbiology for Haemophilus and use of inhaled long-acting beta antagonist/muscarinic agents may have a favourable effect. Conclusion The results of this study may be of use to stratify high risk adult Aboriginal patients with bronchiectasis and to develop strategies to prevent future mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash S. Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Claire Gibbs
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Timothy Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Diagnostic Imaging Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Ng LY, Howarth TP, Doss AX, Charakidis M, Karanth NV, Mo L, Heraganahally SS. Significance of lung nodules detected on chest CT among adult Aboriginal Australians - a retrospective descriptive study. J Med Radiat Sci 2024. [PMID: 38516966 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are limited data on chest computed tomography (CT) findings in the assessment of lung nodules among adult Aboriginal Australians. In this retrospective study, we assessed lung nodules among a group of adult Aboriginal Australians in the Northern Territory of Australia. METHODS Patients who underwent at least two chest CT scans between 2012 and 2020 among those referred to undergo lung function testing (spirometry) were included. Chest CT scans were assessed for the number, location, size and morphological characteristics of lung nodules. RESULTS Of the 402 chest CTs assessed, 75 patients (18.7%) had lung nodules, and 57 patients were included in the final analysis with at least two CT scans available for assessment over a median follow-up of 87 weeks. Most patients (68%) were women, with a median age of 58 years and smoking history in 83%. The majority recorded only a single nodule 43 (74%). Six patients (10%) were diagnosed with malignancy, five with primary lung cancer and one with metastatic thyroid cancer. Of the 51 (90%) patients assessed to be benign, 64 nodules were identified, of which 25 (39%) resolved, 38 (59%) remained stable and one (1.8%) enlarged on follow-up. Nodules among patients with malignancy were typically initially larger and enlarged over time, had spiculated margins and were solid, showing no specific lobar predilection. CONCLUSIONS Most lung nodules in Aboriginal Australians are likely to be benign. However, a proportion could be malignant. Further prospective studies are required for prognostication and monitoring of lung nodules in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai Yun Ng
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Diagnostic Imaging Centre, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Northern Savo, Finland
| | - Arockia X Doss
- Department of Medical Imaging, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michail Charakidis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Narayan V Karanth
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Lin Mo
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
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Howarth T, Gibbs C, Heraganahally SS, Abeyaratne A. Hospital admission rates and related outcomes among adult Aboriginal australians with bronchiectasis - a ten-year retrospective cohort study. BMC Pulm Med 2024; 24:118. [PMID: 38448862 PMCID: PMC10918854 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-024-02909-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed hospitalisation frequency and related clinical outcomes among adult Aboriginal Australians with bronchiectasis over a ten-year study period. METHOD This retrospective study included patients aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with bronchiectasis between 2011 and 2020 in the Top End, Northern Territory of Australia. Hospital admissions restricted to respiratory conditions (International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code J) and relevant clinical parameters were assessed and compared between those with and without hospital admissions. RESULTS Of the 459 patients diagnosed to have bronchiectasis, 398 (87%) recorded at least one respiratory related (ICD-J code) hospitalisation during the 10-year window. In comparison to patients with a recorded hospitalisation against those without-hospitalised patients were older (median 57 vs 53 years), predominantly females (54 vs 46%), had lower body mass index (23 vs 26 kg/m2) and had greater concurrent presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (88 vs 47%), including demonstrating lower spirometry values (forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (median FVC 49 vs 63% & FEV1 36 vs 55% respectively)). The total hospitalisations accounted for 3,123 admissions (median 4 per patient (IQR 2, 10)), at a median rate of 1 /year (IQR 0.5, 2.2) with a median length of 3 days (IQR 1, 6). Bronchiectasis along with COPD with lower respiratory tract infection (ICD code-J44) was the most common primary diagnosis code, accounting for 56% of presentations and 46% of days in hospital, which was also higher for patients using inhaled corticosteroids (81 vs 52%, p = 0.007). A total of 114 (29%) patients were recorded to have had an ICU admission, with a higher rate, including longer hospital stay among those patients with bronchiectasis and respiratory failure related presentations (32/35, 91%). In multivariate regression model, concurrent presence of COPD or asthma alongside bronchiectasis was associated with shorter times between subsequent hospitalisations (-423 days, p = 0.007 & -119 days, p = 0.02 respectively). CONCLUSION Hospitalisation rates among adult Aboriginal Australians with bronchiectasis are high. Future interventions are required to explore avenues to reduce the overall morbidity associated with bronchiectasis among Aboriginal Australians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Howarth
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Diagnostic Imaging Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Claire Gibbs
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Tiwi, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia.
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Tiwi, Darwin, NT, Australia.
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT, Australia.
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Mishra K, Fazal R, Howarth T, Mutai J, Doss AX, Heraganahally SS. Cystic lung disease in adult Indigenous Australians in the Northern Territory of Australia. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2024; 68:67-73. [PMID: 37843748 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Indigenous Australians have a high prevalence of chronic lung diseases. However, no previous studies have reported on cystic lung disease in an Indigenous patient cohort. METHODS This report describes 20 adult Indigenous patients noted to have incidental lung cysts on chest computed tomography (CT) while being referred to undergo lung function tests in the Northern Territory of Australia. RESULTS Of the total 20 Indigenous patients demonstrating presence of pulmonary cysts on chest CT scan, 13/20 (65%) were males with a mean age of 49.9 years (range 24-74 years), with no significant difference in age between males and females. The majority reported a smoking history and spirometry demonstrated moderate reduction in lung function parameters. While there was no pattern in the size or location of cysts, most demonstrated multiple cysts (55% had ≥5 cysts) with bilateral involvement (65%), alongside a range of concurrent pulmonary radiological abnormalities. The aetiology for lung cysts was largely unknown. CONCLUSION This is the first report to illustrate cystic lung disease within an Indigenous population. Further radiology studies are required to investigate the causes and prognostications of cystic lung disease in Indigenous patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kritika Mishra
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Rumana Fazal
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Timothy Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - John Mutai
- Department of Medical Imaging, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Arockia X Doss
- Department of Medical Imaging, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
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Howarth T, Gahreman D, Ben Saad H, Ng L, Heraganahally SS. Correlation of spirometry indices to chest radiology in the diagnosis of chronic airway disease among regional and rural Indigenous Australians. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1994-2006. [PMID: 36710443 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of Indigenous Australians reside in non-urban locations, with reduced access to chest radiology such as computed tomography (CT). Spirometry and chest X-ray (CXR) may be used in the absence of CT; however, the correlation of spirometry indices to CT-defined chronic airway diseases (i.e. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchiectasis) compared with CXR among Indigenous people is sparsely reported. AIM To evaluate spirometry indices against CXR and CT findings among adult Indigenous Australians. METHODS Indigenous patients who had undergone a spirometry test between 2012 and 2020 and had a CXR or chest CT scan assessed for the presence (+ )/absence (- ) of airway diseases were included in this study. RESULTS Of 643 patients (57% female, 31% remote/very remote), 364 (57%) had CT and CXR available. Patients who were 'CT- and CXR- ' for airway diseases (48%) recorded a mean FVC, FEV1 and FEV1 /FVC of 61%, 59% and 0.76 compared to 57%, 49% and 0.66 in the 'CT+ and CXR- ' group and 53%, 39% and 0.58 in the 'CT+ and CXR+ ' group. CXR showed sensitivity (44%) and specificity (88%), while spirometry showed 62% and 77% compared to CT. Spirometry demonstrated predominately restrictive impairment among 'CT- and CXR- ' and mixed/obstructive impairment among 'CT+ and CXR- ' and 'CT+ and CXR+ ' groups. CONCLUSION Indigenous Australians tend to demonstrate restrictive impairment in the absence of radiological evidence of airway disease. However, in the presence of airway disease, combinations of mixed and obstructive impairments were common. Obstructive impairment shows greater sensitivity for identifying COPD than that shown by CXR; however, CXR shows greater specificity. Hence, spirometry in conjunction with chest radiology should be utilised to aid in the assessment of airway diseases in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Daniel Gahreman
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Sport, Exercise, Recreation, and Kinesiology, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, USA
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Hôpital Farhat HACHED de Sousse, Laboratoire de recherche 'Insuffisance Cardiaque' (LR12SP09), Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Lai Ng
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Seyedshahabedin MM, Howarth TP, Mo L, Biancardi E, Heraganahally SS. Flexible bronchoscopy indications and outcomes between indigenous and non-indigenous patients in the Northern Territory of Australia. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1634-1641. [PMID: 35789046 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is sparse evidence in the literature in relation to indications and outcomes among adult indigenous patients requiring a flexible bronchoscopy (FB). In this study, FB indications and outcomes between indigenous and non-indigenous patients were assessed. AIM To assess the similarities and differences of FB indications and outcomes between indigenous and non-indigenous patients. METHODS Self-reported indigenous status, resident locality and the primary indication for FB were assessed. The FB procedures details, results of microbiology, cytology and histopathology were compared between indigenous and non-indigenous patients. Chest computed tomography (CT) was also analysed for its relationship to FB outcomes. RESULTS Of the 403 patients, 111 (28%) were indigenous, and indigenous patients were younger (mean difference 11 years) and had a higher proportion of remote residence (70% vs 13%). Malignancy (40%) and infection (31%) were the most common indications for FB, although indigenous patients reported significantly more haemoptysis (15% vs 9%). No differences were noted in findings of the preceding chest CT scans. For positive microbiology, indigenous patients had a higher presence of Streptococcus pneumoniae (30% vs 9%), while non-indigenous patients had a higher presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (43% vs 11%) and mycobacteria (15% vs 4%). There was no significant difference between indigenous and non-indigenous patients for a positive histopathology, particularly for a diagnosis of lung malignancy (58% vs 54%). CONCLUSIONS This study has demonstrated that adult indigenous patients requiring a FB are significantly younger, tend to reside in remote communities and demonstrate differing microbiology with no significant difference in the diagnostic outcomes for lung malignancy. Ethnic status or remoteness should not preclude indigenous patients to undergo a FB if clinically indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Seyedshahabedin
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Lin Mo
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Edwina Biancardi
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Howarth TP, Jersmann HPA, Majoni SW, Mo L, Ben Saad H, Ford LP, Heraganahally SS. The 'ABC' of respiratory disorders among adult Indigenous people: asthma, bronchiectasis and COPD among Aboriginal Australians - a systematic review. BMJ Open Respir Res 2023; 10:e001738. [PMID: 37451702 PMCID: PMC10351270 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2023-001738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aboriginal Australians are reported to have higher presence of chronic respiratory diseases. However, comprehensive evidence surrounding this is sparse. Hence, a systematic review was undertaken to appraise the current state of knowledge on respiratory health in the adult Aboriginal Australians, in particular among the three most common respiratory disorders: asthma, bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS A systematic review of primary literature published between January 2012 and October 2022, using the databases PubMed and Scopus, was conducted. Studies were included if they reported adult Aboriginal Australian prevalence's or outcomes related to asthma, bronchiectasis or COPD, and excluded if adult data were not reported separately, if Aboriginal Australian data were not reported separately or if respiratory disorders were combined into a single group. Risk of bias was assessed by both Joanne Briggs Institute checklists and Hoys' bias assessment. Summary data pertaining to prevalence, lung function, symptoms, sputum cultures and mortality for each of asthma, bronchiectasis and COPD were extracted from the included studies. RESULTS Thirty-seven studies were included, involving approximately 33 364 participants (71% female). Eighteen studies reported on asthma, 21 on bronchiectasis and 30 on COPD. The majority of studies (94%) involved patients from hospitals or respiratory clinics and were retrospective in nature. Across studies, the estimated prevalence of asthma was 15.4%, bronchiectasis was 9.4% and COPD was 13.7%, although there was significant geographical variation. Only a minority of studies reported on clinical manifestations (n=7) or symptoms (n=4), and studies reporting on lung function parameters (n=17) showed significant impairment, in particular among those with concurrent bronchiectasis and COPD. Airway exacerbation frequency and hospital admission rates including mortality are high. DISCUSSION Although risk of bias globally was assessed as low, and study quality as high, there was limited diversity of studies with most reporting on referred populations, and the majority originating from two centres in the Northern Territory. The states with the greatest Aboriginal Australian population (Victoria and New South Wales) reported the lowest number of studies and patients. This limits the generalisability of results to the wider Aboriginal Australian population due to significant environmental, cultural and socioeconomic variation across the population. Regardless, Aboriginal Australians appear to display a high prevalence, alongside quite advanced and complex chronic respiratory diseases. There is however significant heterogeneity of prevalence, risk factors and outcomes geographically and by patient population. Further collaborative efforts are required to address specific diagnostic and management pathways in order to close the health gap secondary to respiratory disorders in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin private Hospital, Tiwi, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hubertus P A Jersmann
- Department of Respiratory and sleep Medicine, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- The University of Adelaide, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sandawana W Majoni
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Northern Territory Medical program, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Lin Mo
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Northern Territory Medical program, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- University of Sousse, Farhat HACHED Hospital, Heart Failure (LR12SP09) Research Laboratory, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Linda P Ford
- Northern Institute, Faculty of Arts & Society, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin private Hospital, Tiwi, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Northern Territory Medical program, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
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Howarth T, Ben Saad H, Heraganahally SS. The Impact of Lung Function Parameters on Sleep Among Aboriginal Australians - A Polysomnography and Spirometry Relationship Study. Nat Sci Sleep 2023; 15:449-464. [PMID: 37323655 PMCID: PMC10263013 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s409883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are known to overlap significantly with airway diseases in various populations. This study assessed the relationship between lung function parameters against polysomnography (PSG) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) adherence data amongst an Aboriginal Australian population. Methods Patients who undertook both a diagnostic PSG and spirometry were included. Restrictive, obstructive, and mixed impairments were assessed via global lung function initiative (GLI-2012, ATS/ERS) criteria/guidelines. PSG and CPAP data were evaluated between patients with or without spirometry impairments. Results Of the total 771 patients, 248 had PSG and spirometry data available (52% female, 44% remote residents, 78% obese). The majority (89%) had OSA (51% severe), 95 (38%) were observed to have a restrictive impairment, and 31 (13%) had an obstructive or mixed impairment on spirometry. Compared to patients with no spirometric impairment, those with restrictive or obstructive/mixed impairments demonstrated significantly lower sleep efficiency (median 84% vs 79% and 78%), higher apnoea-hypopnea index (AHI) during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (median 32 vs 52 and 55 events/hour), reduced REM oxygen saturation (SpO2) (median 94.0% vs 92.0% and 92.5%) and reduced adherence to CPAP therapy (median 39% vs 22% and 17%). Differences in sleep efficiency, REM AHI, and NREM SpO2 held for patients with obstructive/mixed impairments in multivariate modelling. Conclusion Aboriginal Australian patients with OSA have a higher concurrent lung function' impairment. Spirometric impairment appears to negatively influence sleep efficiency, nocturnal SpO2 and CPAP adherence. This may have substantial implications for OSA management among Aboriginal Australians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Hôpital Farhat HACHED de Sousse, Laboratoire de recherche “Insuffisance Cardiaque” (LR12SP09), Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Heraganahally SS, Howarth TP, Lloyd A, White E, Veale A, Ben Saad H. The Prevalence of Bronchodilator Responsiveness "Asthma" Among Adult Indigenous Australians Referred for Lung Function Testing in the Top End Northern Territory of Australia. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:1305-1319. [PMID: 36132978 PMCID: PMC9484079 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s376213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Among Indigenous Australians, studies examining the clinical significance of airway bronchodilator responsiveness (BDR) are limited. In this retrospective study, we examined the nature of underlying lung disease in adult Indigenous patients with BDR referred for lung function testing (LFT) in the Top End Health Service region of the Northern Territory of Australia. Methods Presence or absence of BDR as per usual (FVC or FEV1 change pre to post ≥12% and ≥0.2L) and updated (2021 ">10% predicted) ATS/ERS criteria among Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians was determined. The radiological findings in the Indigenous study participants with and without BDR were next assessed for the presence of underlying chronic airway/lung disease. Results We found that 123/742 (17%) Indigenous and 578/4579 (13%) non-Indigenous patients had a significant BDR. Indigenous patients with BDR were younger (mean difference 7 years), with a greater proportion of females (52 vs 32%), underweight (15 vs 4%) and current smokers (52 vs 25%). Indigenous patients with BDR displayed lower LFT values, and a higher proportion exhibited FVC BDR compared to non-Indigenous (34 vs 20%). Almost half (46%) of Indigenous patients with BDR had evidence of COPD and/or bronchiectasis on radiology. Adjusting for the presence of radiologic or spirometric evidence of COPD, the presence of BDR was similar between Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients (5-8 vs 7-11%), irrespective of which BDR criteria was used. Conclusion BDR was higher overall among Indigenous in comparison to non-Indigenous patients; however, a significant proportion of Indigenous patients demonstrating BDR had evidence of underlying COPD/bronchiectasis. This study highlights that although presence of BDR among Indigenous people may indicate asthma, it may also be observed among patients with COPD/bronchiectasis or could represent asthma/COPD/bronchiectasis overlap. Hence, a combination of clinical history, LFT and radiology should be considered for precise diagnosis of lung disease in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.,College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Angus Lloyd
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Elisha White
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Antony Veale
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Hospital Farhat HACHED of Sousse, Research Laboratory "Heart Failure, LR12SP09", University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
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Pal A, Howarth TP, Rissel C, Messenger R, Issac S, Ford L, Connors C, Heraganahally S. COPD disease knowledge, self-awareness and reasons for hospital presentations among a predominately Indigenous Australian cohort: a study to explore preventable hospitalisation. BMJ Open Respir Res 2022; 9:9/1/e001295. [PMID: 35944944 PMCID: PMC9367193 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2022-001295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is higher among Indigenous Australians than that of non-Indigenous Australians. However, no studies have investigated COPD disease awareness and knowledge among Indigenous Australians. In this study, we assessed the COPD disease awareness among Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients in the Top End Health Service region of the Northern Territory of Australia. Methods Of a total convenience sample of 100 adults, 86 patients consented to participate in this study over a 15-month period. A structured interview was conducted to identify participant’s level of knowledge about COPD, medications, self-management, healthcare interaction and utilisations. Results Most (69%) participants were Indigenous and men (52%). Indigenous patients were significantly younger (mean 56 vs 68 years p<0.001), with a higher proportion of remote residence and current smoking. COPD knowledge across the cohort was low, with 68% of Indigenous and 19% of non-Indigenous participants reporting they ‘know nothing/had never heard of COPD’. Most patients self-reported use of puffers/inhalers and were able to identify medication used; however, adherence to therapy was observed in only 18%. Shortness of breath was the most common symptom for hospital presentation (83%) and 69% of Indigenous patients reported seeking medical attention during an exacerbation. Self-management and COPD action plans were poorly implemented. A significant proportion (49%) reported ≥2 hospital admissions in the preceding 12 months. During exacerbation, although the majority of Indigenous patients were transferred to a tertiary centre from remote communities, patient’s preference was to be managed in their respective local communities. Conclusions Awareness and understanding of COPD are low in this cohort on several domains. Tailored and culturally appropriate initiatives for both patients and health professionals alike are required to improve COPD disease management among Indigenous population. This will not only improve quality of life but also reduce recurrent hospitalisation, healthcare cost and utilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arijeet Pal
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.,Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Chris Rissel
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Raelene Messenger
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Siji Issac
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Linda Ford
- College of Indigenous Futures, Education & Arts, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Christine Connors
- Department of Health & Community Services, Top End Health Service, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Subash Heraganahally
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia .,Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.,Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
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Sze DFL, Howarth TP, Lake CD, Ben Saad H, Heraganahally SS. Differences in the Spirometry Parameters Between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Patients with COPD: A Matched Control Study. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2022; 17:869-881. [PMID: 35480554 PMCID: PMC9037718 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s361839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Comparison of spirometry parameters between Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients with underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been sparsely reported in the past. In this study, differences in the lung function parameters (LFPs), in particular spirometry values for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC ratio between Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients with COPD were assessed. Methods In this retrospective study, Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients with a diagnosis of COPD between 2012-2020 according to spirometry criteria (ie; post-bronchodilator (BD) FEV1/FVC < 0.7) were included. A further analysis was undertaken to compare the differences in the spirometry parameters, including lower limit of normal (LLN) values matching for age, sex, height and smoking status between these two diverse ethnic populations. Results A total of 240/742 (32%) Indigenous and 873/4579 (19%) non-Indigenous patients were identified to fit the criteria for COPD. Indigenous patients were significantly younger (mean difference 9.9 years), with a greater proportion of females (50% vs 33%), underweight (20% vs 8%) and current smokers (47% vs 32%). Prior to matching, Indigenous patients' post-BD percent predicted values for FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC ratio were 17, 17%, and -2 points lower (Hedges G measure of effect size large (0.91), large (0.87), and small (0.25), respectively). Among the matched cohort (111 Indigenous and non-Indigenous), Indigenous patients LFPs remained significantly lower, with a mean difference of 16%, 16%, and -4, respectively (Hedges G large (0.94), large (0.92) and small (0.41), respectively). The differences persisted despite no significant differences in LLN values for these parameters. Conclusion Indigenous Australian patients with COPD display a significantly different demographic and clinical profile than non-Indigenous patients. LFPs were significantly lower, which may or may not equate to greater severity of disease in the absence of normative predictive lung function reference values specific to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy F L Sze
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia.,Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Clair D Lake
- Pulmonary Function Laboratory, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia.,Research laboratory "Heart Failure, LR12SP09", Farhat HACHED Hospital, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia.,Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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12
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Heraganahally SS, Howarth T, Sorger L, Ben Saad H. Sex differences in pulmonary function parameters among Indigenous Australians with and without chronic airway disease. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263744. [PMID: 35134094 PMCID: PMC8824342 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies assessing normative values and sex differences in pulmonary function test parameters (PFTPs) among Indigenous populations are sparse. METHODS PFTPs were compared between male and female Indigenous Australian adults with and without chest radiologically proven chronic airway diseases (CADs). RESULTS 485 adults (56% were female) with no significant difference in age, body mass index or smoking status between sexes were included. Females displayed a higher prevalence of radiology without CADs compared to males (66 vs. 52%, respectively). Among patients without CADs, after adjustment for age, stature and smoking, males displayed significantly higher absolute values of Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) (mean difference, 0.41L (0.21,0.62), p<0.001) and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) (mean difference 0.27L (0.07,0.47), p<0.001), with no significant difference in FEV1/FVC ratio (mean difference -0.02 (-0.06, 0.02), p = 0.174). Male and female patients with radiologically proven CADs demonstrated lower FEV1/FVC values. However, compared to females, males showed significantly greater reductions in pre- [-0.53 (-0.74, -0.32) vs. -0.29 (-0.42, -0.16), p = 0.045] and post- [-0.51 (-0.72, -0.3) vs. -0.27 (-0.39, -0.14), p = 0.049] bronchodilator FEV1. CONCLUSIONS There are significant sex differences in the PFTPs among Indigenous Australians. Recognising these differences may be of value in the accurate diagnosis, management, monitoring and prognostication of CADs in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash S. Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Flinders University - College of Medicine and Public Health, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Timothy Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Lisa Sorger
- Department of Medical Imaging, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Laboratory of Physiology, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
- Farhat HACHED Hospital, Research Laboratory “Heart Failure, LR12SP09”, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
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Heraganahally SS, Ghimire RH, Howarth T, Kankanamalage OM, Palmer D, Falhammar H. Comparison and outcomes of emergency department presentations with respiratory disorders among Australian indigenous and non-indigenous patients. BMC Emerg Med 2022; 22:11. [PMID: 35045817 PMCID: PMC8772203 DOI: 10.1186/s12873-022-00570-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
There is sparse evidence in the literature assessing emergency department presentation with respiratory disorders among Indigenous patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes for Indigenous Australians in comparison to non-Indigenous patients presenting to Emergency Department (ED) with respiratory disorders.
Methods
In this study, two non-contiguous one-month study periods during wet (January) and dry (August) season were reported on, and differences in demographics, respiratory diagnosis, hospital admission, length of hospital stay, re-presentation to hospital after discharge and mortality between Australian Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients was assessed.
Results
There were a total of 528 respiratory ED presentations, 258 (49%) during wet and 270 (51%) in dry season, from 477 patients (52% female and 40% Indigenous). The majority of ED presentations (84%) were self-initiated, with a difference between Indigenous (80%) and non-Indigenous (88%) presentations. Indigenous presentations recorded a greater proportion of transfers from another healthcare facility compared to non-Indigenous presentations (11% vs. 1%). Less than half of presentations (42%) resulted in admission to the ward with no difference by Indigenous status. Lower respiratory tract infections were the most common cause of presentation (41%), followed by airway exacerbation (31%) which was more commonly seen among Indigenous (34%) than non-Indigenous (28%) presentations. Almost 20% of Indigenous patients reported multiple presentations to ED compared to 1% of non-Indigenous patients, though mortality on follow up did not differ (22% for both).
Conclusions
The results of this study may be an avenue to explore possibilities of implementing programs that may be helpful to reduce preventable ED presentation and recurrent hospitalisations among Indigenous population.
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Heraganahally S, Howarth TP, White E, Ben Saad H. Implications of using the GLI-2012, GOLD and Australian COPD-X recommendations in assessing the severity of airflow limitation on spirometry among an Indigenous population with COPD: an Indigenous Australians perspective study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2021; 8:e001135. [PMID: 34952866 PMCID: PMC8710893 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2021-001135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of airflow limitation (AFL) is crucial in the clinical evaluation of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, in the absence of normative reference values among adult Australian Indigenous population, the implications of utilising the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI-2012), Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) and the Australian concise COPD-X recommended severity classifications is not known. Moreover, spirometry values (forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)) are observed to be 20%-30% lower in an apparently healthy Indigenous population in comparison to Caucasian counterparts. METHODS Adult Indigenous patients diagnosed to have COPD on spirometry (postbronchodilator (BD) FEV1/FVC <0.7 ((GOLD, (COPD-X)) and ≤lower limit of normal (others/mixed reference equations) for GLI-2012) were assessed for AFL severity classifications on Post-BD FEV1 values (mild, moderate, severe, very severe) as per the recommended classifications. RESULTS From a total of 742 unique patient records of Indigenous Australians, 253 were identified to have COPD via GOLD/COPD-X criteria (n=238) or GLI-2012 criteria (n=238) with significant agreeance between criteria (96%, κ=0.901). Of these, the majority were classified as having moderate or severe/very-severe AFL with significant variability across classification criteria (COPD-X (40%-43%), GOLD (33%-65%), GLI-2012 (18%-75%)). The FVC and FEV1 values also varied significantly between classification criterion (COPD-X/GOLD/GLI-2012) within the same AFL category, with COPD-X 'moderate' AFL almost matching 'severe' AFL categorisation by GOLD or GLI-2012. CONCLUSIONS Health professionals caring for Indigenous patients with COPD should be aware of the clinical implications and consequences of utilising various recommended AFL classifications in the absence of validated spirometry reference norms among adult Indigenous patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
- Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Elisha White
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
- Research laboratory "Heart failure, LR12SP09", Farhat HACHED Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
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Heraganahally SS, Ponneri TR, Howarth TP, Ben Saad H. The Effects of Inhaled Airway Directed Pharmacotherapy on Decline in Lung Function Parameters Among Indigenous Australian Adults With and Without Underlying Airway Disease. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2021; 16:2707-2720. [PMID: 34616149 PMCID: PMC8487848 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s328137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The trajectory of lung function decline among Indigenous patients with or without underlying chronic airway disease (COPD and concomitant bronchiectasis) and with use of inhaled pharmacotherapy, including inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), has not been reported in the past. METHODS Adult Indigenous Australian patients identified to have undergone at least two or more lung function tests (LFTs) between 2012 and 2020 were assessed for changes in the lung function parameters (LFPs) between the first and last recorded LFTs. RESULTS Of the total 1350 patients identified to have undergone LFTs, 965 were assessed to fulfil session quality, 115 (n=58 females) were eligible to be included with two or more LFTs. Among the 115 patients, 49% showed radiological evidence of airway diseases, and 77% were on airway directed inhaled pharmacotherapy. Median time between LFTs was 1.5 years (IQR 0.86,5.85), with no significant differences in LFPs noted between first and last LFT. Overall rate of change (mL/year) showed considerable variation for FVC (median -37.55 mL/year [IQR -159.88,92.67]) and FEV1 (-18.74 mL/year [-102.49,71.44]) with minimal change in FEV1/FVC (0.00 ratio/year [-0.03,0.01]). When stratified by inhaled pharmacotherapy group, however, patients using ICS showed significantly greater rate of FEV1 decline (-48.64 mL/year [-110.18,62.5]) compared to those using pharmacotherapy with no ICS (15.46 mL/year [-73.5,74.62]) and those using no pharmacotherapy (-5.76 mL/year [-63.19,67.34]) (p=0.022). Additionally, a greater proportion of these patients reached the threshold for excessive FEV1 decline (64%) compared to those using pharmacotherapy without ICS (44%) and those using no pharmacotherapy (52%). CONCLUSION Decline in LFPs occurs commonly among adult Indigenous population, especially, excessive so among those using inhaled pharmacotherapy containing ICS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash S Heraganahally
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- Northern Territory Medical Program - College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Tarun R Ponneri
- Northern Territory Medical Program - College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Timothy P Howarth
- Darwin Respiratory and Sleep Health, Darwin Private Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Université de Sousse, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Hôpital Farhat HACHED de Sousse, Laboratoire de Recherche “LR12SP09” “Insuffisance cardiaque”, Sousse, Tunisia
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