Unravelling the Impact: Undiagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and its Influence on Cardiovascular Diseases - A Review

Abstract

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease manifests as a gradually advancing and incapacitating respiratory ailment marked by the constriction of airflow. The undiagnosed population with COPD presents a major threat to both individual health outcomes and healthcare systems, resulting in heightened healthcare expenses and a decreased quality of life for those affected. Investigating the potential implications of undetected COPD on cardiovascular health provides a comprehensive analysis of the current knowledge and key findings in this intricate interplay.

Objective:

This review examines the literature on undiagnosed COPD, exploring its association with cardiovascular diseases. It explores the intricate relationship between undetected COPD and cardiovascular health, offering key insights into this complex interplay. Focusing on epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, and barriers to diagnosis, the objective is to provide an understanding of the challenges associated with undetected COPD.

Methods:

A thorough and systematic search was executed on PubMed between 2019 and July’ 2023

Results:

A global examination of studies highlights diverse prevalence rates of undiagnosed COPD. Notably, the highest rate reaches 91.5%, with British Columbia, Canada, following closely at 72.1%. COPD patients show elevated rates of heart failure and varying incidences of ischemic heart disease compared to those without COPD.

Conclusions:

Undiagnosed COPD poses concealed challenges with profound impacts on individuals and healthcare systems, often hindered by delayed recognition due to the disease's insidious nature. A multifaceted strategy, improved awareness, and enhanced diagnostic tools are crucial to address barriers and reduce the profound consequences of delayed diagnosis.