COPD exacerbations are related to poor air quality in Innsbruck: A retrospective pilot study

Abstract

Background: Triggers of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are diverse, potentially including airborne pollutants.

Objectives: To analyze whether daily air pollution levels correlate with AECOPD frequency.

Methods: In this retrospective pilot-study, AECOPD frequency was recorded between 2010 and 2016 at the University Hospital of Innsbruck's emergency department and correlated with daily air quality parameters. Data was compared to pulmonary embolism (PE) frequency, a disease not directly involving the airways.

Results: In total, 669 AECOPD and 857 PE events were registered. Days with AECOPD revealed significantly higher concentrations of CO and SO₂, whereas days with PE displayed an elevation of NO. Higher frequencies of AECOPD during winter months correlated with higher CO and SO₂ levels, disclosing a seasonal trend, while no such pattern was observed for PE.

Conclusion: Air pollution is linked to AECOPD frequency, however, prospective studies are needed to confirm this possible, underrecognized trigger of AECOPD.

Keywords: Air pollution; COPD; Exacerbation; Pulmonary embolism; Seasonality.