Chronic Lung Disease in Focus: Epidemiological Perspectives on Lifestyle, Environmental, and Clinical Risk Factors
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Abstract
Background: Chronic lung infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.. Objective: To investigate the epidemiological burden, risk factors, and clinical characteristics of chronic lung infections among patients attending Khulna City Medical College Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2024 involving 134 patients diagnosed with chronic lung infections. Data on demographics, smoking history, environmental exposures, comorbidities, clinical parameters, and healthcare access were collected through structured interviews and review of medical records. Statistical analyses were performed to identify associations and predictors of disease severity. Results: Most patients were aged 50–59 years (42.54%), with males constituting 64.9% of the sample. Smoking prevalence among males was 68.97%, with long-term and high intensity smoking significantly associated with increased hospital admissions (p = 0.001). Females were all non-smokers but reported 100% passive smoking exposure. Hypertension and diabetes affected approximately half the cohort. Environmental factors, including poor household ventilation (56.72%), proximity to industrial areas (60.45%), biomass fuel use, dust exposure (57.46%), and mold/dampness at home (51.49%), were prevalent. Elevated inflammatory markers (CRP 73.13%, ESR 66.42%) indicated chronic inflammation. Despite 62.7% using inhalers/nebulizers, only 35.8% maintained regular follow-ups, and half experienced diagnostic delays exceeding one month. Sedentary lifestyle (68.7%) and delayed health-seeking behavior (56.7%) were common. Conclusion: Chronic lung infections in this population are influenced by a combination of smoking, environmental exposures, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors.
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