This is an international, multicentre, retrospective database study designed to identify patients at the highest risk of hospital readmission, with a specific focus on evaluating the risk/benefit ratio of triple therapy on an individual basis. By addressing these objectives, the study aims to contribute to the development of targeted strategies for improving patient outcomes and optimising resource utilisation.
The study will utilise anonymised, research-quality data extracted from electronic medical records (EMRs) within hospital databases across multiple countries.
It spans a five-year period, from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022, with the following key components:
Enrollment Period -> January 1, 2018, to December 21, 2021 (based on the date of discharge following a severe exacerbation).
Follow-Up Period -> One year after the date of discharge.
Inclusion Criteria:
Spirometry-confirmed COPD diagnosis (post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC <0.7 within one year before enrollment).
Age 40 years.
Smoking history of 10 pack-years.
Recent discharge from the hospital due to a severe exacerbation.
Patients receiving any therapy (mono-, duo-, triple therapy, or no therapy).
Exclusion Criteria:
Life expectancy shorter than six months.
Presence of concomitant chronic respiratory conditions, such as current asthma, severe bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, lung fibrosis, or active tuberculosis.
Severe comorbidities likely to limit survival to less than six months (e.g., active neoplasm or severe cardiac insufficiency).
This study has the potential to significantly improve clinical management for COPD patients by identifying those at high risk of hospital readmission and evaluating the individualised risk/benefit ratio of triple therapy. Additionally, it will enhance understanding of factors influencing readmissions and guide targeted interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and optimising healthcare resource utilisation.