[Chronic bronchitis: prevalence and quality of life. Analysis of data from the French Health Interview Survey 2002-2003].

INTRODUCTION

Chronic bronchitis is associated with an increased risk of COPD and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) impairment. The objectives of the study were to estimate the prevalence of chronic bronchitis and to describe its relations with quality of life.

METHODS

The French Health Interview Survey was conducted in 2003 in a representative sample of households. Data were collected during an interviewer's visits to the home. Respiratory symptoms and HRQoL (SF-36) were assessed in 9,050 adults aged 45 years and older using a self-administered questionnaire.

RESULTS

The prevalence of chronic bronchitis was estimated at 3.5%. Chronic bronchitis was associated with an impaired physical component summary score after adjusting for sex, age and dyspnoea. It was associated with a reduced mental component summary score (MCS) among men. In women, this association was only significant in the absence of dyspnoea.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 3.5% among adults aged 45 years and older. Chronic bronchitis was associated with impairment in health-related quality of life.