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IntroductionChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common disease worldwide that is among the top causes of mortality. This study aims to estimate the awareness of COPD among the Syrian population as COPD can be prevented and has a high prevalence in Syria. MethodsA cross-sectional anonymous self-administered online survey was conducted by using Google Forms on Social Media platforms. The questionnaire included demographic, smoke related and COPD related questions.ResultsThis study included 1608 participants with 930 (57.8%) being females, about 40% was in the age range of 21-25 years, more than 90% were university students/graduates and 67.8% were living in Syrian cities. Around half of participant were either active smokers or negative/second-hand smokers. When excluding participants in health-related fields, only 25.4% have ever heard of the term COPD, of which, approximately three quarters were able to identify what COPD is and answered most questions correctly. Knowing about COPD did not affect smoking habits. No significant differences in awareness among city and countryside, among governates, between genders and age groups. Being in a health-related field was a major factor of increased awareness.ConclusionCOPD awareness in Syria is low, even amongst the well-education population. COPD risk factors are very common among the Syrian population such as actively smoking and indoors and outdoors exposure to pollutants. More awareness campaigns are needed with studies to suggest the best way to tackle this issue. |
