Self-Management Abilities and Associated Factors Among COPD Patients in Sulaymaniyah City, Iraq

Abstract

Background

 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder requiring effective self-management. However, the relationship between self-management abilities and patients' sociodemographic and clinical characteristics remains underexplored in Iraq.

Objective

 To assess associations between self-management abilities and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics among COPD patients in Sulaymaniyah City, Iraq.

Methods

 A cross-sectional study enrolled 102 COPD patients from two respiratory hospitals. Data were collected using structured questionnaires including the COPD Self-Management Scale (CSMS), COPD Assessment Test (CAT), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Dyspnea Scale, and Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). A pilot study (n=10) confirmed instrument reliability (Cronbach's α ≥0.70). Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and Kruskal-Wallis H tests (p<0.05).

Results

 Mean age was 68.5±10.7 years; 84.3% were male, 68.6% urban residents, and 56.9% had low education. Mean CSMS score was 67.49±12.94, indicating moderate self-management. Higher education (p=0.012), married status (p=0.001), longer disease duration (p=0.021), and smoking cessation after diagnosis (p=0.013) were significantly associated with better self-management. Age, gender, residence, comorbidities, and BMI showed no significant associations.

Conclusion

 COPD patients in Sulaymaniyah demonstrate moderate self-management influenced by education, marital status, disease duration, and smoking behavior. Tailored educational interventions, smoking cessation programs, and social support strategies are essential to enhance self-management and improve patient outcomes.