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RESEARCH PRODUCT

COPD in elderly patients – an analysis of the DACCORD observational study

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Introduction: In elderly patients COPD is frequently complicated by the presence of several comorbidities and the many non-COPD-related medications prescribed to treat these conditions. This analysis aims to characterize COPD patients above the age of 75 in a real-world cohort in Germany. Methods: DACCORD is a prospective, non-interventional study collecting data from COPD patients treated in primary and secondary care. Prior to study entry, patients either initiated or changed COPD maintenance medication. Moderate/severe exacerbations, COPD-medication and non-COPD medication were documented at baseline and every 3 months. Comorbidities were documented at baseline. Results: Baseline characteristics of patients >75 years are summarized in Table 1 in comparison with age groups 75 years, leading to 76.8% taking at least one non-COPD-related medication – most commonly agents acting on the renin-angiotensin-system (49.8%), anti-thrombotic agents (34.5%) and beta-blockers (30.2%). During the one-year follow up, exacerbation rates were low in patients >75 years (0.303, 95% CI 0.269, 0.342) and comparable to those of the other two age groups (Table 1). Conclusions: This real-world analysis confirms that polypharmacy is common in patients with COPD aged >75 years. Smoking cessation should still be discussed with patients in this age group.