COPD and social distancing in the UK

Background

Those with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) were at a higher risk of experiencing severe illness in the event of contracting COVID-19. Did they therefore act more cautiously?

Aim

The aim was to determine whether the condition of COPD incurred significant change in social distancing behavior compared to the general public.

Design and Setting

Data was used from the Imperial ‘COVID-19 Behavioural Tracker’, which details results of regular public surveying on attitudes surrounding COVID-19 guidance.

Methods

Responses by U.K. participants to twenty questions reflecting willingness to adhere to social distancing guidance were compared in those reporting COPD and non-COPD status.

Results

Those with COPD stated a significantly greater willingness to wear face masks during early stages of pandemic. There was greater reluctance to go out and go shopping. There was no apparent or significant difference in willingness to use public transport, suggesting that this was an unavoidable necessity for all. The relationship between level of adherence and COVID-19 case numbers was weak both for those of both COPD and non-COPD status.

Discussion

These results suggest that those with COPD were more cautious and followed guidance more willingly. Advice provided by GP’s and healthcare professionals is likely to be beneficial in guiding patient behaviour.