Objective:

To determine the prevalence and characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), in the Panama Republic.

Material and methods:

A prevalence study was carried out in the Republic of Panama, in subjects over 40 years of age, who answered affirmatively to the survey of respiratory symptoms, and in whom the diagnosis of COPD was confirmed, after a clinical evaluation and spirometry study.

Results:

877 surveys were applied to people over 40 years of age in the 10 provinces of the Republic of Panama. 39 participants presented COPD symptoms and spirometry, corresponding to a global prevalence for Panama of 4.4% CI (3.1-5.8). 56.4% CI (40.8-72.0) were male. 82.1% CI (70.1-94.1) had no previous diagnosis of COPD and 20.5% CI (7.83-33.2) had previously performed spirometry. The 43.6% CI (28.0-59.1) had positive smoking and 30.7% CI (16.2-45.2) had a history of exposure to biomass. The 46.1% CI (30.4-61.7) was classified in GOLD group B, 28% CI (13.9-42.0) in group D, 20.5% CI (7.8-33.1) in group A and 5.1% in group C, CI (3.5-6.7). The most frequent comorbidities, rhinitis 38.4% CI 95 (23.2-53.7), arterial hypertension 35.9% CI (20.8-51.0) and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux 23.1% CI (9.9-36.3). The long-acting anticholinergics were most frequent drugs used.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of COPD in Panama is low; it occurs mainly in males, smoking and exposure to biomass are the most frequent exposures. Spirometry for its diagnosis is underused. The most frequent comorbidities were rhinitis, arterial hypertension and gastroesophageal reflux. Two thirds of COPD correspond to GOLD groups B and D, which are the most symptomatic, and the treatment they receive most frequently is based on long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilators.