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Müller A, Wouters EF, Koul P, Welte T, Harrabi I, Rashid A, Loh LC, Al Ghobain M, Elsony A, Ahmed R, Potts J, Mortimer K, Rodrigues F, Paraguas SN, Juvekar S, Agarwal D, Obaseki D, Gislason T, Seemungal T, Nafees AA, Jenkins C, Dias HB, Franssen FME, Studnicka M, Janson C, Cherkaski HH, El Biaze M, Mahesh PA, Cardoso J, Burney P, Hartl S, Janssen DJA, Amaral AFS. Association between lung function and dyspnoea and its variation in the multinational Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study. Pulmonology 2024:S2531-0437(24)00044-8. [PMID: 38614859 DOI: 10.1016/j.pulmoe.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyspnoea is a common symptom of respiratory disease. However, data on its prevalence in general populations and its association with lung function are limited and are mainly from high-income countries. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of dyspnoea across several world regions, and to investigate the association of dyspnoea with lung function. METHODS Dyspnoea was assessed, and lung function measured in 25,806 adult participants of the multinational Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study. Dyspnoea was defined as ≥2 on the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea scale. The prevalence of dyspnoea was estimated for each of the study sites and compared across countries and world regions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of dyspnoea with lung function in each site. Results were then pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of dyspnoea varied widely across sites without a clear geographical pattern. The mean prevalence of dyspnoea was 13.7 % (SD=8.2 %), ranging from 0 % in Mysore (India) to 28.8 % in Nampicuan-Talugtug (Philippines). Dyspnoea was strongly associated with both spirometry restriction (FVC CONCLUSION The prevalence of dyspnoea varies substantially across the world and is strongly associated with lung function impairment. Using the mMRC scale in epidemiological research should be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Müller
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Health, Vienna, Austria; Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - E F Wouters
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Health, Vienna, Austria; Sigmund Freud University, Faculty of Medicine, Vienna, Austria; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - P Koul
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sheri Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - T Welte
- Department of Respiratory Medicine/Infectious Disease, Member of the German Centre for Lung Research, Hannover School of Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - I Harrabi
- Faculté de Médecine, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - A Rashid
- RCSI and UCD Malaysia Campus, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | - M Al Ghobain
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud ben Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - A Elsony
- The Epidemiological Laboratory, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - R Ahmed
- The Epidemiological Laboratory, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - J Potts
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - K Mortimer
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - F Rodrigues
- Pulmonology Department, Lisbon North Hospital Centre, Lisbon, Portugal; Institute of Environmental Health, Associate Laboratory TERRA, Lisbon Medical School, Lisbon University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - S N Paraguas
- Philippine College of Chest Physicians, Manila, Philippines
| | - S Juvekar
- KEM Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India
| | - D Agarwal
- KEM Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India
| | - D Obaseki
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria; Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - T Gislason
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland; Department of Sleep, Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - T Seemungal
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | | | - C Jenkins
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - H B Dias
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Politecnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - F M E Franssen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Research and Development, Ciro, Horn, the Netherlands
| | - M Studnicka
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - C Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences: Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - H H Cherkaski
- Faculty of Medicine, University Badji Mokhtar, Annaba, Algeria
| | - M El Biaze
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, Fes, Morocco
| | - P A Mahesh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysore, Karnataka, India
| | - J Cardoso
- Pulmonology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA Medical School, Nova University Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - P Burney
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - S Hartl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Health, Vienna, Austria; Sigmund Freud University, Faculty of Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - D J A Janssen
- Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Research and Development, Ciro, Horn, the Netherlands
| | - A F S Amaral
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK; NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Knox-Brown B, Patel J, Potts J, Ahmed R, Aquart-Stewart A, Cherkaski HH, Denguezli M, Elbiaze M, Elsony A, Franssen FME, Ghobain MA, Harrabi I, Janson C, Jõgi R, Juvekar S, Lawin H, Mannino D, Mortimer K, Nafees AA, Nielsen R, Obaseki D, Paraguas SNM, Rashid A, Loh LC, Salvi S, Seemungal T, Studnicka M, Tan WC, Wouters EEFM, Barbara C, Gislason T, Gunasekera K, Burney P, Amaral AFS. Small airways obstruction and its risk factors in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study: a multinational cross-sectional study. Lancet Glob Health 2023; 11:e69-e82. [PMID: 36521955 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00456-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small airways obstruction is a common feature of obstructive lung diseases. Research is scarce on small airways obstruction, its global prevalence, and risk factors. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of small airways obstruction, examine the associated risk factors, and compare the findings for two different spirometry parameters. METHODS The Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study is a multinational cross-sectional study of 41 municipalities in 34 countries across all WHO regions. Adults aged 40 years or older who were not living in an institution were eligible to participate. To ensure a representative sample, participants were selected from a random sample of the population according to a predefined site-specific sampling strategy. We included participants' data in this study if they completed the core study questionnaire and had acceptable spirometry according to predefined quality criteria. We excluded participants with a contraindication for lung function testing. We defined small airways obstruction as either mean forced expiratory flow rate between 25% and 75% of the forced vital capacity (FEF25-75) less than the lower limit of normal or forced expiratory volume in 3 s to forced vital capacity ratio (FEV3/FVC ratio) less than the lower limit of normal. We estimated the prevalence of pre-bronchodilator (ie, before administration of 200 μg salbutamol) and post-bronchodilator (ie, after administration of 200 μg salbutamol) small airways obstruction for each site. To identify risk factors for small airways obstruction, we performed multivariable regression analyses within each site and pooled estimates using random-effects meta-analysis. FINDINGS 36 618 participants were recruited between Jan 2, 2003, and Dec 26, 2016. Data were collected from participants at recruitment. Of the recruited participants, 28 604 participants had acceptable spirometry and completed the core study questionnaire. Data were available for 26 443 participants for FEV3/FVC ratio and 25 961 participants for FEF25-75. Of the 26 443 participants included, 12 490 were men and 13 953 were women. Prevalence of pre-bronchodilator small airways obstruction ranged from 5% (34 of 624 participants) in Tartu, Estonia, to 34% (189 of 555 participants) in Mysore, India, for FEF25-75, and for FEV3/FVC ratio it ranged from 5% (31 of 684) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to 31% (287 of 924) in Salzburg, Austria. Prevalence of post-bronchodilator small airways obstruction was universally lower. Risk factors significantly associated with FEV3/FVC ratio less than the lower limit of normal included increasing age, low BMI, active and passive smoking, low level of education, working in a dusty job for more than 10 years, previous tuberculosis, and family history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Results were similar for FEF25-75, except for increasing age, which was associated with reduced odds of small airways obstruction. INTERPRETATION Despite the wide geographical variation, small airways obstruction is common and more prevalent than chronic airflow obstruction worldwide. Small airways obstruction shows the same risk factors as chronic airflow obstruction. However, further research is required to investigate whether small airways obstruction is also associated with respiratory symptoms and lung function decline. FUNDING National Heart and Lung Institute and Wellcome Trust. TRANSLATIONS For the Dutch, Estonian, French, Icelandic, Malay, Marathi, Norwegian, Portuguese, Swedish and Urdu translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Knox-Brown
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Jaymini Patel
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - James Potts
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rana Ahmed
- Epidemiological Laboratory for Public Health, Research and Development, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Hamid Hacene Cherkaski
- Department of Pneumology, Faculty of Medicine Annaba, University Badji Mokhtar of Annaba, Annaba, Algeria
| | - Meriam Denguezli
- Faculté de Médecine Dentaire de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Mohammed Elbiaze
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, University Hospital, Fes, Morocco
| | - Asma Elsony
- Epidemiological Laboratory for Public Health, Research and Development, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Frits M E Franssen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands; Department of Research and Education, CIRO, Horn, Netherlands
| | - Mohammed Al Ghobain
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imed Harrabi
- Ibn El Jazzar Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Christer Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences: Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rain Jõgi
- Lung Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sanjay Juvekar
- Vadu Rural Health Program, KEM Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India
| | - Herve Lawin
- Unit of Teaching and Research in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
| | - David Mannino
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; COPD Foundation, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kevin Mortimer
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Asaad Ahmed Nafees
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rune Nielsen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway; Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Stefanni Nonna M Paraguas
- Philippine College of Chest Physicians, Quezon City, Philippines; Philippine Heart Centre, Quezon City, Philippines
| | | | - Li-Cher Loh
- RCSI and UCD Malaysia Campus, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Sundeep Salvi
- Pulmocare Research and Education Foundation, Pune, India; Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India
| | - Terence Seemungal
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Michael Studnicka
- University Clinic for Pneumology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wan C Tan
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Emiel E F M Wouters
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Health, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cristina Barbara
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Serviço de Pneumologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Thorarinn Gislason
- Department of Sleep, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Kirthi Gunasekera
- Medical Research Institute, Central Chest Clinic, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Peter Burney
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Andre F S Amaral
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Cho YH, Seo JB, Lee SM, Kim N, Yun J, Hwang JE, Lee JS, Oh YM, Do Lee S, Loh LC, Ong CK. Radiomics approach for survival prediction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:7316-7324. [PMID: 33847809 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-07747-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To apply radiomics analysis for overall survival prediction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and evaluate the performance of the radiomics signature (RS). METHODS This study included 344 patients from the Korean Obstructive Lung Disease (KOLD) cohort. External validation was performed on a cohort of 112 patients. In total, 525 chest CT-based radiomics features were semi-automatically extracted. The five most useful features for survival prediction were selected by least absolute shrinkage and selection operation (LASSO) Cox regression analysis and used to generate a RS. The ability of the RS for classifying COPD patients into high or low mortality risk groups was evaluated with the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. RESULTS The five features remaining after the LASSO analysis were %LAA-950, AWT_Pi10_6th, AWT_Pi10_heterogeneity, %WA_heterogeneity, and VA18mm. The RS demonstrated a C-index of 0.774 in the discovery group and 0.805 in the validation group. Patients with a RS greater than 1.053 were classified into the high-risk group and demonstrated worse overall survival than those in the low-risk group in both the discovery (log-rank test, < 0.001; hazard ratio [HR], 5.265) and validation groups (log-rank test, < 0.001; HR, 5.223). For both groups, RS was significantly associated with overall survival after adjustments for patient age and body mass index. CONCLUSIONS A radiomics approach for survival prediction and risk stratification in COPD patients is feasible, and the constructed radiomics model demonstrated acceptable performance. The RS derived from chest CT data of COPD patients was able to effectively identify those at increased risk of mortality. KEY POINTS • A total of 525 chest CT-based radiomics features were extracted and the five radiomics features of %LAA-950, AWT_Pi10_6th, AWT_Pi10_heterogeneity, %WA_heterogeneity, and VA18mm were selected to generate a radiomics model. • A radiomics model for predicting survival of COPD patients demonstrated reliable performance with a C-index of 0.774 in the discovery group and 0.805 in the validation group. • Radiomics approach was able to effectively identify COPD patients with an increased risk of mortality, and patients assigned to the high-risk group demonstrated worse overall survival in both the discovery and validation groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Hoon Cho
- Department of Radiology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, 148, Gurodong-ro, Guro-gu, Seoul, 08308, South Korea
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Joon Beom Seo
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea.
| | - Sang Min Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Namkug Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Jihye Yun
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Hwang
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Jae Seung Lee
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Mok Oh
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Sang Do Lee
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 138-736, South Korea
| | - Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus, 4 Jalan Sepoy Lines, 10450, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Choo-Khoom Ong
- Department of Medicine, RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus, 4 Jalan Sepoy Lines, 10450, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
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Burney P, Patel J, Minelli C, Gnatiuc L, Amaral AFS, Kocabaş A, Cherkaski HH, Gulsvik A, Nielsen R, Bateman E, Jithoo A, Mortimer K, Sooronbaev TM, Lawin H, Nejjari C, Elbiaze M, El Rhazi K, Zheng JP, Ran P, Welte T, Obaseki D, Erhabor G, Elsony A, Osman NB, Ahmed R, Nizankowska-Mogilnicka E, Mejza F, Mannino DM, Bárbara C, Wouters EFM, Idolor LF, Loh LC, Rashid A, Juvekar S, Gislason T, Al Ghobain M, Studnicka M, Harrabi I, Denguezli M, Koul PA, Jenkins C, Marks G, Jõgi R, Hafizi H, Janson C, Tan WC, Aquart-Stewart A, Mbatchou B, Nafees A, Gunasekera K, Seemungal T, Padukudru Anand M, Enright P, Vollmer WM, Blangiardo M, Elfadaly FG, Buist AS. Prevalence and Population Attributable Risk for Chronic Airflow Obstruction in a Large Multinational Study. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2020; 203:1353-1365. [PMID: 33171069 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202005-1990oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The Global Burden of Disease programme identified smoking, and ambient and household air pollution as the main drivers of death and disability from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Objective: To estimate the attributable risk of chronic airflow obstruction (CAO), a quantifiable characteristic of COPD, due to several risk factors. Methods: The Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study is a cross-sectional study of adults, aged≥40, in a globally distributed sample of 41 urban and rural sites. Based on data from 28,459 participants, we estimated the prevalence of CAO, defined as a post-bronchodilator one-second forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity ratio < lower limit of normal, and the relative risks associated with different risk factors. Local RR were estimated using a Bayesian hierarchical model borrowing information from across sites. From these RR and the prevalence of risk factors, we estimated local Population Attributable Risks (PAR). Measurements and Main Results: Mean prevalence of CAO was 11.2% in men and 8.6% in women. Mean PAR for smoking was 5.1% in men and 2.2% in women. The next most influential risk factors were poor education levels, working in a dusty job for ≥10 years, low body mass index (BMI), and a history of tuberculosis. The risk of CAO attributable to the different risk factors varied across sites. Conclusions: While smoking remains the most important risk factor for CAO, in some areas poor education, low BMI and passive smoking are of greater importance. Dusty occupations and tuberculosis are important risk factors at some sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Burney
- Imperial College, Respiratory Epidemiology and Public Health, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Jaymini Patel
- Imperial College London, NHLI - Respiratory Epidemiology, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Cosetta Minelli
- Imperial College, National Heart and Lung Institute, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Louisa Gnatiuc
- University of Oxford, 6396, Oxford, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - André F S Amaral
- Imperial College London, 4615, National Heart and Lung Institute, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland;
| | - Ali Kocabaş
- Cukurova Universitesi Tip Fakultesi, 63988, Pulmonary Disease, Adana, Turkey
| | | | - Amund Gulsvik
- University of Bergen, 1658, Department of Thoracic Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Anamika Jithoo
- University of Cape Town Lung Institute, 108145, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kevin Mortimer
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Respiratory Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | | | - Hervé Lawin
- University of Abomey-Calavi, 107790, Unit of Teaching and Research in Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Chakib Nejjari
- Laboratoire d'épidémiologie, Recherche Clinique et Santé Communautaire, Fes, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Elbiaze
- Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie de Fes Bibliotheque, 548123, Fes, Morocco
| | - Karima El Rhazi
- Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie de Fes Bibliotheque, 548123, Fes, Morocco
| | - Jin-Ping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pixin Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tobias Welte
- Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Direktor der Abteilung Pneumologie, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Filip Mejza
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, 49573, Krakow, Poland
| | - David M Mannino
- Medical Expert at GlaxoSmithKline, Lexington, Kentucky, United States.,University of Ketucky, Epidemiology , Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Cristina Bárbara
- Hospital Pulido Valente, 70896, Unidade de Técnicas Invasivas Pneumológicas, Pneumologia II, Lisboa, Portugal.,Universidade de Lisboa Faculdade de Medicina, 37811, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Emiel F M Wouters
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | | | - Li-Cher Loh
- Penang Medical College, 26696, Georgetown, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Rashid
- Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland and University College Dublin, Malaysia Campus, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | | | | | | | - Imed Harrabi
- Faculty of Medicine, Sousse, Tunisia, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Meriam Denguezli
- Universite de Sousse Faculte de Medecine de Sousse, 280226, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Parvaiz A Koul
- Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, 29078, Internal Medicine, Srinagar, India
| | | | - Guy Marks
- Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Campertown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rain Jõgi
- Foundation Tartu University Clinics, Lung Clinic, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Christer Janson
- Uppsala Uiversity, Dep of Respiratory Medicine, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Wan C Tan
- Univ British Columbia, icapture center, vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Terry Seemungal
- University of the West Indies, Clinical Medical Sciences, Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Mahesh Padukudru Anand
- JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, JSS Medical College, , Mysore, India
| | - Paul Enright
- University of Arizona, Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | | | - Marta Blangiardo
- Imperial College London School of Public Health, 156430, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Fadlalla G Elfadaly
- The Open University, 5488, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - A Sonia Buist
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Medicine / Pulmonary & Critical Care, Portland, Oregon, United States
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5
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Tiew PY, Ko FWS, Narayana JK, Poh ME, Xu H, Neo HY, Loh LC, Ong CK, Mac Aogáin M, Tan JHY, Kamaruddin NH, Sim GJH, Lapperre TS, Koh MS, Hui DSC, Abisheganaden JA, Tee A, Tsaneva-Atanasova K, Chotirmall SH. "High-Risk" Clinical and Inflammatory Clusters in COPD of Chinese Descent. Chest 2020; 158:145-156. [PMID: 32092320 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2020.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COPD is a heterogeneous disease demonstrating inter-individual variation. A high COPD prevalence in Chinese populations is described, but little is known about disease clusters and prognostic outcomes in the Chinese population across Southeast Asia. We aim to determine if clusters of Chinese patients with COPD exist and their association with systemic inflammation and clinical outcomes. RESEARCH QUESTION We aim to determine if clusters of Chinese patients with COPD exist and their association with clinical outcomes and inflammation. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Chinese patients with stable COPD were prospectively recruited into two cohorts (derivation and validation) from six hospitals across three Southeast Asian countries (Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong; n = 1,480). Each patient was followed more than 2 years. Clinical data (including co-morbidities) were employed in unsupervised hierarchical clustering (followed by validation) to determine the existence of patient clusters and their prognostic outcome. Accompanying systemic cytokine assessments were performed in a subset (n = 336) of patients with COPD to determine if inflammatory patterns and associated networks characterized the derived clusters. RESULTS Five patient clusters were identified including: (1) ex-TB, (2) diabetic, (3) low comorbidity: low-risk, (4) low comorbidity: high-risk, and (5) cardiovascular. The cardiovascular and ex-TB clusters demonstrate highest mortality (independent of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease assessment) and illustrate diverse cytokine patterns with complex inflammatory networks. INTERPRETATION We describe clusters of Chinese patients with COPD, two of which represent high-risk clusters. The cardiovascular and ex-TB patient clusters exhibit high mortality, significant inflammation, and complex cytokine networks. Clinical and inflammatory risk stratification of Chinese patients with COPD should be considered for targeted intervention to improve disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Yee Tiew
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Fanny Wai San Ko
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jayanth Kumar Narayana
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, India
| | - Mau Ern Poh
- Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Huiying Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Han Yee Neo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, RCSI-UCD Malaysia Campus, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Choo Khoon Ong
- Department of Medicine, RCSI-UCD Malaysia Campus, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Micheál Mac Aogáin
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | | | | | - Gerald Jiong Hui Sim
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Therese S Lapperre
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mariko Siyue Koh
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - David Shu Cheong Hui
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Augustine Tee
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova
- Living Systems Institute and Department of Mathematics, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; PSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in Healthcare, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Sanjay H Chotirmall
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
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Loh LC, Ong CK, Koo HJ, Lee SM, Lee JS, Oh YM, Seo JB, Lee SD. A novel CT-emphysema index/FEV 1 approach of phenotyping COPD to predict mortality. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2018; 13:2543-2550. [PMID: 30174423 PMCID: PMC6110287 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s165898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COPD-associated mortality was examined using a novel approach of phenotyping COPD based on computed tomography (CT)-emphysema index from quantitative CT (QCT) and post-bronchodilator (BD) forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) in a local Malaysian cohort. Patients and methods Prospectively collected data of 112 eligible COPD subjects (mean age, 67 years; male, 93%; mean post-BD FEV1, 45.7%) was available for mortality analysis. Median follow-up time was 1,000 days (range, 60–1,400). QCT and clinicodemographic data were collected at study entry. Based on CT-emphysema index and post-BD FEV1% predicted, subjects were categorized into “emphysema-dominant,” “airway-dominant,” “mild mixed airway-emphysema,” and “severe mixed airway-emphysema” diseases. Results Sixteen patients (14.2%) died of COPD-associated causes. There were 29 (25.9%) “mild mixed,” 23 (20.5%) “airway-dominant,” 15 (13.4%) “emphysema-dominant,” and 45 (40.2%) “severe mixed” cases. “Mild mixed” disease was proportionately more in Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Group A, while “severe mixed” disease was proportionately more in GOLD Groups B and D. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates showed increased mortality risk with “severe mixed” disease (log rank test, p=0.03) but not with GOLD groups (p=0.08). Univariate Cox proportionate hazard analysis showed that age, body mass index, long-term oxygen therapy, FEV1, forced volume capacity, COPD Assessment Test score, modified Medical Research Council score, St Georges’ Respiratory Questionnaire score, CT-emphysema index, and “severe mixed” disease (vs “mild mixed” disease) were associated with mortality. Multivariate Cox analysis showed that age, body mass index, and COPD Assessment Test score remain independently associated with mortality. Conclusion “Severe mixed airway-emphysema” disease may predict COPD-associated mortality. Age, body mass index, and COPD Assessment Test score remain as key mortality risk factors in our cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Choo-Khoon Ong
- Department of Medicine, RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Hyun-Jung Koo
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea,
| | - Sang Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea,
| | - Jae-Seung Lee
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and Clinical Research Center for Chronic Obstructive Airway Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Mok Oh
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and Clinical Research Center for Chronic Obstructive Airway Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Beom Seo
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea,
| | - Sang-Do Lee
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and Clinical Research Center for Chronic Obstructive Airway Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Amaral AFS, Patel J, Kato BS, Obaseki DO, Lawin H, Tan WC, Juvekar SK, Harrabi I, Studnicka M, Wouters EFM, Loh LC, Bateman ED, Mortimer K, Buist AS, Burney PGJ. Airflow Obstruction and Use of Solid Fuels for Cooking or Heating: BOLD Results. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2018; 197:595-610. [PMID: 28895752 PMCID: PMC6005234 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201701-0205oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Evidence supporting the association of COPD or airflow obstruction with use of solid fuels is conflicting and inconsistent. OBJECTIVE To assess the association of airflow obstruction with self-reported use of solid fuels for cooking or heating. METHODS We analysed 18,554 adults from the BOLD study, who had provided acceptable post-bronchodilator spirometry measurements and information on use of solid fuels. The association of airflow obstruction with use of solid fuels for cooking or heating was assessed by sex, within each site, using regression analysis. Estimates were stratified by national income and meta-analysed. We carried out similar analyses for spirometric restriction, chronic cough and chronic phlegm. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We found no association between airflow obstruction and use of solid fuels for cooking or heating (ORmen=1.20, 95%CI 0.94-1.53; ORwomen=0.88, 95%CI 0.67-1.15). This was true for low/middle and high income sites. Among never smokers there was also no evidence of an association of airflow obstruction with use of solid fuels (ORmen=1.00, 95%CI 0.57-1.76; ORwomen=1.00, 95%CI 0.76-1.32). Overall, we found no association of spirometric restriction, chronic cough or chronic phlegm with the use of solid fuels. However, we found that chronic phlegm was more likely to be reported among female never smokers and those who had been exposed for ≥20 years. CONCLUSION Airflow obstruction assessed from post-bronchodilator spirometry was not associated with use of solid fuels for cooking or heating.
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Affiliation(s)
- André F S Amaral
- Imperial College London, NHLI - Respiratory Epidemiology, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ;
| | - Jaymini Patel
- Imperial College London, NHLI - Respiratory Epidemiology, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ;
| | - Bernet S Kato
- Imperial College London, 4615, London, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ;
| | | | - Hervé Lawin
- Unit of Teaching and Research in Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Abomey - Calavi , Cotonou, Benin, Cotonou, Benin ;
| | - Wan C Tan
- Univ British Columbia, icapture center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada ;
| | - Sanjay K Juvekar
- Vadu Health and Demographic Surveillance System and Vadu Rural Health Program, KEM Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India ;
| | - Imed Harrabi
- Faculty of Medicine, Sousse, Tunisia, Sousse, Tunisia ;
| | | | - Emiel F M Wouters
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands ;
| | - Li-Cher Loh
- Penang Medical College, 26696, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia ;
| | | | - Kevin Mortimer
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, 9655, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ;
| | - A Sonia Buist
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Medicine / Pulmonary & Critical Care, Portland, Oregon, United States ;
| | - Peter G J Burney
- Imperial College, Respiratory Epidemiology and Public Health, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ;
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Loh LC, Chan LY, Tan RY, Govindaraju S, Ratnavelu K, Kumar S, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Effect of time delay on survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer — A Malaysian study. Asia Pac J Public Health 2016; 18:69-71. [PMID: 16629441 DOI: 10.1177/10105395060180011101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The prognosis of lung cancer remains poor with overall five year survival figures varying between five and 10% worldwide, However, it has been shown that surgery in patients with early stage disease in non-small cell lung cancer can achieve five year survival rates up to 80%, suggesting that early or delay diagnosis can influence prognosis. Nevertheless, studies addressing this have been inconclusive and mostly derived from Western countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, International Medical University Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
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Chong KT, Wong SF, Mak JW, Loh LC, Ho TM. Sero-prevalence study of IgE responses to allergens from Malaysian house dust (HDM) and storage mites (SM). Trop Biomed 2015; 32:524-39. [PMID: 26695214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2022]
Abstract
Allergens of Dermatophagoides and Blomia species are well-characterized but not for other species. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of allergic sensitization to house dust (HDM) and storage mites (SM). One hundred adult subjects (aged ≥ 18) were recruited. The mite specific IgE of all allergic subjects were higher compared with healthy subjetcs despite being not statistically significant except for D. farinae and G. malaysiensis. The mean serum IgE levels against HDM and SM for allergic subjects were significantly higher compared with those in healthy subjects. They were mainly sensitized to Dermatophagoides farinae (35%) and Glycycometus malaysiensis (37%). Immunoblots revealed not all allergic subjects showed positive immuno-reactivity against the mites tested. Single or multiple bands were observed for different species. The subjects were commonly sensitized to Group 2 (9-12 kDa), 10 (38 kDa) and 18 (40-48 kDa) allergens. Twenty-one out of 60 allergic subjects were sensitized to either one or more species. The majority of them (71%) were sensitized to single species. The allergic subjects were mainly sensitized to D. pteronyssinus, followed by Tyrophagus putrecentiae and Aleuroglyphus ovatus. Seven were solely sensitized to HDM while 10 were solely sensitized to SM. Four subjects were sensitized to both. Pre-adsorption study revealed no cross-reactivity. There was difference between the prevalence and reactivity to allergens of HDM and SM in these subjects. Both ELISA and immunoblot did not correlate well but can complement each other in improving the detection of mite allergens to the species level.
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Affiliation(s)
- K T Chong
- International Medical University, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - S F Wong
- International Medical University, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - J W Mak
- International Medical University, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, Penang Medical College, 10450 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - T M Ho
- Clinical Research Center, 50588 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Oh YM, Bhome AB, Boonsawat W, Gunasekera KD, Madegedara D, Idolor L, Roa C, Kim WJ, Kuo HP, Wang CH, Lan LTT, Loh LC, Ong CK, Ng A, Nishimura M, Makita H, Silverman EK, Lee JS, Yang T, Lin Y, Wang C, Lee SD. Characteristics of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in the pulmonology clinics of seven Asian cities. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2013; 8:31-9. [PMID: 23378753 PMCID: PMC3553655 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s36283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. We evaluated the characteristics of stable COPD patients in the pulmonology clinics of seven Asian cities and also evaluated whether the exposure to biomass fuels and dusty jobs were related to respiratory symptoms, airflow limitation, and quality of life in the COPD patients. METHODS This cross-sectional observational study recruited 922 COPD patients from seven cities of Asia. The patients underwent spirometry and were administered questionnaires about their exposure to cigarette smoking, biomass fuels, and dusty jobs in addition to respiratory symptoms and health related quality of life. RESULTS Of the patients, there appeared to be variations from city to city in the history of exposure to biomass fuels and dusty jobs and also in respiratory symptoms of cough, phlegm, wheeze, and dyspnea. These symptoms were more frequent in those COPD patients with a history of exposure to biomass fuels than without and those with a history of exposure to dusty jobs than without (P < 0.01 for all comparisons). Airflow limitation was more severe in those COPD patients with a history of exposure to biomass fuels than without (52.2% predicted versus 55.9% of post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV(1)], P = 0.009); quality of life was poorer in those with exposure to biomass fuels than without (40.4 versus 36.2 of the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire [SGRQ] total score, P = 0.001). Airflow limitation was more severe in those COPD patients with a history of exposure to dusty jobs than without (51.2% predicted versus 57.3% of post-bronchodilator FEV(1), P < 0.001); quality of life was poorer in those with dusty jobs than without (41.0 versus 34.6 of SGRQ score, P = 0.006). CONCLUSION In Asian cities, the characteristics of COPD patients vary and the history of exposure to biomass fuels or dusty jobs was related to frequency of symptoms, severe airflow limitation, and poor quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Mok Oh
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and Clinical Research Center for Chronic Obstructive Airway Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Loh LC. Screening latent tuberculous infection to treat: not so straightforward. Med J Malaysia 2012; 67:465-466. [PMID: 23770859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Penang Medical College, Department of Medicine, 4 Jalan Sepoy Lines, 10450, Penang, Malaysia.
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Lung Research, Department of Medicine, Penang Medical College, Penang, Malaysia.
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Chung WL, Ong CK, Tan WC, Muttalif AR, Loh LC. Prevalence and Spectrum of Major Anti-TB Drug Reactions in a Multiethnic Asian Population: A Study Between HIV and Non-HIV Patients With TB Infectio. Chest 2011. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.1114870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Choo WS, Loh LC, Goh TH, Omar I. Awareness of diastolic heart failure as a disease entity among Malaysian doctors -- a questionnaire survey from three general hospitals. Med J Malaysia 2011; 66:350-352. [PMID: 22299556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The concept of diastolic heart failure (DHF) is not new. However awareness and understanding on this subject may remains uncertain among medical practitioners. We wished to examine the extent of awareness of such entity among doctors in Malaysia. A questionnaire was designed and distributed randomly during hospital Continuous Professional Development (CPD/CME) sessions and also in the respective outpatient departments (OPD) between July to October 2008. This cross-sectional survey in three urban-based general hospitals showed that there are a significant proportion of doctors who are lack of understanding and awareness of diastolic heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- W S Choo
- Penang Medical College, Penang, Malaysia.
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15
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Ong CK, Tan WC, Loh LC, Chan LC, Muttalif AR. Erythema Induratum as Early and Sole Presentation of Tuberculosis. Chest 2011. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.1119009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Loh LC, Lim BK, Wan Yusuf S. Significant resolution of tuberculous pleural effusion on chemotherapy alone. J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2010; 40:100-4. [DOI: 10.4997/jrcpe.2010.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Loh LC, Teh PN. Perception of breathlessness by a 3-minute respiratory exerciser test predicts asthma exacerbations: a prospective cohort study. J Asthma 2009; 46:529-34. [PMID: 19657890 DOI: 10.1080/02770900801890489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We prospectively evaluated the use of a simple 3-Minute Respiratory Exerciser Test (3MRET) that estimates perception of dyspnea to identify patients at risk of asthma exacerbations. A total of 146 stable asthmatics (42 under-perceivers, 69 normal perceivers, and 35 over-perceivers) received follow-up for 12 months. The mean (SD) unscheduled visits to doctors among under-, normal, and over-perceivers were 1.8 (1.2), 2.2 (1.8), and 3.1 (2.3), respectively (p = 0.008). The mean (SD) hospital admissions among the groups were 1.3 (0.5), 1.2 (0.6), and 1.7 (1.3), respectively (p = 0.026). Compared to normal perceivers, over-perceivers had increased risks of unscheduled visits (OD: 5.12; 95% CI = 1.59 to 16.47) and hospital admissions (OD: 0.31; 95% CI = 0.23 to 0.41), defined as > or =2 events in 12 months. The association between over-perceiver and unscheduled visits remained significant after adjusting for forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)). Sensitivity and specificity of over-perceivers are 77% and 47%, respectively, for unscheduled visits and 37% and 78%, respectively, for hospital admissions, with significantly better area under ROC for unscheduled visits (0.67 [95% CI = 0.56 to 0.77]; p = 0.003) than for hospital admissions (0.58 [0.471 to 0.70]; p = 0.127). We conclude that the 3MRET may have a role in identifying asthmatic patients with over-perception of dyspnea at risk of clinically important asthma exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, Penang Medical College, Penang, Malaysia.
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Roberts NJ, Mohamed Z, Wong PS, Johnson M, Loh LC, Partridge MR. The development and comprehensibility of a pictorial asthma action plan. Patient Educ Couns 2009; 74:12-18. [PMID: 18789626 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2008.07.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2008] [Revised: 07/21/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Written action plans are regarded as an important part of asthma self-management education and yet they may not be understood by those with limited literacy skills. This study was designed to produce an understandable pictorial asthma action plan. METHODS With advice from a group of doctors and nurses a "standard" written action plan was translated by a medical artist into a series of pictorial images. These were assessed using the techniques of guessability and translucency by a series of adults attending a specialist asthma clinic in London and the same process was subsequently used to assess comprehensibility of the images and plans amongst a group of Somalis living in Manchester, UK and Malaysians in Seremban, Malaysia. RESULTS Guessability testing showed that the majority of pictograms were well understood by each of the study groups. Translucency testing revealed close agreement with intended meaning for the majority of the images. One image, depicting extra use of reliever medication scored less well in all populations; two other images scored less well in the Somali and Malaysian groups and reflect less use of certain inhaler devices in other countries. The overall plan was well understood by all patients who were able to adequately recount the appropriate actions to take in different clinical scenarios. CONCLUSION We have developed a pictorial asthma action plan understandable by 3 different populations of patients with asthma. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Pictorial representations have been shown by other studies in other situations to be an effective method of reinforcing the spoken word. The pictorial asthma action plan developed for this study has been shown to be comprehensible, personalised to the individual in the usual fashion. It is now suitable for further evaluation in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Roberts
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, NHLI at Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College London, St. Dunstans Road, Hammersmith, London, United Kingdom
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Loh LC, Lim BK, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Mohd Yusuf S. Budesonide/formoterol combination therapy as both maintenance and reliever medication in moderate-to-severe asthma: a real-life effectiveness study of Malaysian patients. Med J Malaysia 2008; 63:188-192. [PMID: 19248687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Budesonide/Formoterol (Symbicort) combination therapy as both maintenance and reliever treatment (SMART) is a novel approach in asthma management. We examined its 'real-life effectiveness' in treating Malaysian patients with moderate-to-severe asthma in whom despite on combined inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta2-agonist, were still inadequately controlled. In a retrospective study, 22 eligible adult patients on SMART [mean (range) age: 49 (36-65) years; FEV1: 41 (21-74)% predicted] were identified from medical records of an urban-based university hospital chest clinic, and their clinical outcomes studied at three months. Another 16 patients [50 (14-66) years; 48 (20-91)% predicted] of similar severity and treatment (i.e. Symbicort maintenance treatment plus short-acting beta2-agonist as reliever), but not on SMART, were used as comparator over the same assessment period. In addition, the patients were separately interviewed with standard questionnaire on their satisfaction and compliance to the SMART approach. In SMART group, rescue treatment requirement (p<0.001) and FEV1 [median difference = 2.5%, p=0.015; mean difference: 90 ml, p=0.013] showed significant improvement while in comparator, there was significant improvement only in the requirement for rescue treatment (p=0.023). Hospital admission rates were significantly reduced in SMART group compared to the other (p=0.039), but not in emergency treatment. Five patients asked to discontinue SMART while all others were satisfied, compliant and perceived improvement of their asthma with SMART. The maximum daily doses of inhaled budesonide and formoterol were 1400 microg and 31.5 microg respectively. Our preliminary findings suggest that SMART approach can be attempted as an effective and safe treatment option for patients with inadequately controlled moderate-to-severe asthma in Malaysian setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Lai NM, Nalliah S, Jutti RC. The Concept and Implementation of “Distributed Learning” – Our Early Experience. Ann Acad Med Singap 2007. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.v36n10p867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nai Ming Lai
- International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Lai NM, Nalliah S, Jutti RC. The concept and implementation of "distributed learning"--our early experience. Ann Acad Med Singap 2007; 36:867-870. [PMID: 17987241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Internal Medicine, International Medical University, Kula Lampur, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Chin HK, Chong YY, Jeyaratnam A, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T, Kumar S. Klebsiella pneumoniae respiratory isolates from 2000 to 2004 in a Malaysian hospital: characteristics and relation to hospital antibiotics consumption. Singapore Med J 2007; 48:813-8. [PMID: 17728961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Klebsiella pneumoniae ranks high as a cause of community-acquired pneumonia in hospitalised patients in Malaysia. METHODS A retrospective study of 5,990 clinical respiratory specimens in patients, with a mean age of 54 (standard deviation 18.5) years, admitted to an urban-based general hospital between 2000 and 2004, was conducted. RESULTS The percentages of K. pneumoniae isolates during these years were 11, 19.1, 41.4, 27.8 and 16.6 percent, respectively. During this time, the percentage of isolates resistant to ampicillin were consistently in excess of 80 percent, those resistant to cephalosporins were relatively stable between eight and 23 percent, while those resistant to beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors [amoxicillin clavulanic acid/ ampicillin-sulbactam] and aminoglycosides steadily increased between six and 58 percent. Compared with hospital consumption of these corresponding antibiotic classes, only beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors and aminoglycosides showed a clear trend of eight- and four-fold increases, respectively. Co-resistance rates in isolates resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid/ampicillin-sulbactam were generally low to second to third generation cephalosporins (less than 20 percent). CONCLUSION Our local findings highlighted the changing trend in respiratory K. pneumoniae over a five-year period, and its escalating resistance to beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors and aminoglycosides that is possibly attributable to the widespread use of these antibiotics in our hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Sani RMM, Samad NIHA, Raman S, Thayaparan T, Kumar S. Adverse Hospital Outcomes Associated With the Choice of Empiric Antibiotics in Klebsiella pneumoniae Pneumonia: A Retrospective Observational Study. Ann Acad Med Singap 2007. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.v36n8p642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: In Malaysia, Klebsiella pneumoniae ranks high as a cause of adult pneumonia requiring hospitalisation.
Patients and Methods: With concern over its rising microbial resistance, we explored the association of empiric antibiotics choices with the hospital outcomes of patients treated for microbial proven K. pneumoniae pneumonia in an urban-based teaching hospital.
Results: In 313 eligible cases reviewed retrospectively, hospital mortality and requirement for ventilation were 14.3% and 10.8% respectively. Empiric regimes that had in vitro resistance to at least one empiric antibiotic (n = 90) were associated with higher hospital mortality (23.3% vs. 10.8%, P = 0.004) with risk increased by about two-fold [Odds ratio (OR), 2.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.3 to 4.8]. Regimes (n = 84) other than the commonly recommended “standard” regimes (a β-lactam stable antibiotic with or without a macrolide) were associated with higher ventilation rates (16.7% vs. 8.8%, P = 0.047) with similar increased risk [OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.3].
Conclusions: Our findings reiterate the clinical relevance of in vitro microbial resistance in adult K. pneumoniae pneumonia and support empiric regimes that contain β-lactam stable antibiotics.
Key words: In vitro resistance, Malaysia
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Sree Raman
- Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Wong PS. Perception towards asthma clinical practice guidelines and appropriateness of prescribing practices--a comparison between government and private doctors. Med J Malaysia 2007; 62:210-213. [PMID: 18246909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
A self-answered, anonymously completed, nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted between June 2002 and May 2003 among Malaysian doctors through post and at medical meetings. Findings based on 116 government and 110 private doctors who satisfactorily completed the forms (effective respondent rate: 30.1%) showed that more than 70% of government and private doctors claimed familiarity with asthma CPGs but proportionately more private doctors considered them "unworkable" and were reluctant to adopt them in their practice setting, quoting cost as the primary reason. Between those who frequently adopted the CPGs and those who did not, there was an equally high proportion of inappropriate prescribing. Despite the shortcomings of such a survey, our findings suggest that medicinal cost and practitioner's prescribing practices are important in the acceptance and execution of asthma CPGs recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan
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Loh LC, Raman S, Thayaparan T, Kumar S. Hospital Outcomes of Adult Respiratory Tract Infections with Extended-Spectrum B-Lactamase (ESBL) Producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae. Malays J Med Sci 2007; 14:36-40. [PMID: 22993489 PMCID: PMC3442624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2005] [Accepted: 12/03/2006] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae ranks high as a cause of adult pneumonia requiring hospitalization in Malaysia. To study whether extended-spectrum b-lactamase (ESBL) producing K. pneumoniae was linked to hospital outcomes, we retrospectively studied 441 cases of adult respiratory tract infections with microbial proven K. pneumoniae from an urban-based university teaching hospital between 2003 and 2004. 47 (10.6%) cases had ESBL. Requirement for ventilation and median length of hospital stay, were greater in 'ESBL' than in 'non-ESBL' group [34% vs. 7.4%, p<0.001; 14 days vs. 5 days, p<0.001 respectively] but not crude hospital mortality rate [21.3% vs. 12.4%, p=0.092]. There was a four-fold increased risk of requiring ventilation [4.61 (2.72-7.85)] when ESBL was present. Our findings support the association of ESBL producing K. pneumoniae with adversed hospital outcomes and reiterate the need for vigilance on the part of treating clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Corresponding Author : Dr Li-Cher Loh MBBCh (Ireland), MRCP (UK), MD (London), Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Tel: (+606) 767 7798 Fax: (+606) 767 7709, E mail:
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Loh LC, Ong HT, Quah SH. Impact of Various Continuing Medical Education Activities on Clinical Practice – A Survey of Malaysian Doctors on its Perceived Importance. Ann Acad Med Singap 2007. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.v36n4p281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Medical talks, newsletter circulars, scientific meetings and conferences, and interaction with members of the pharmaceutical industry, have become convenient means of carrying out continuing medical education (CME) for many busy doctors.
Materials and Methods: To study the perceived importance of these various CME activities, a self-completed posted questionnaire survey was conducted among registered practitioners of a densely popu-lated urban state in Malaysia.
Results: Of the 172 respondents [male, 77%; hospital-based, 37%; general practitioner (GP), 55%; private practice, 70%; respondent rate of 19.5%], most preferred local conferences and endorsements by local experts to their foreign counterparts. Meetings or conferences sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry were ranked similarly with those without such links, while the reputation of the pharmaceutical firms was of foremost importance. Among GPs (n = 95) and non-GPs (n = 77), medical society newsletters were rated significantly higher by GPs while overseas conferences were rated higher by non-GPs.
Conclusion: Our findings provide an important first look at this under-explored area among Malaysian doctors and described a high degree of acceptance for the involvement of the pharmaceutical industry in CME activities.
Key words: Clinical practice, Continuing medical education, Doctors, Malaysia, Pharmaceutical industry
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Ong HT, Quah SH. Impact of various continuing medical education activities on clinical practice - a survey of Malaysian doctors on its perceived importance. Ann Acad Med Singap 2007; 36:281-4. [PMID: 17483859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medical talks, newsletter circulars, scientific meetings and conferences, and interaction with members of the pharmaceutical industry, have become convenient means of carrying out continuing medical education (CME) for many busy doctors. MATERIALS AND METHODS To study the perceived importance of these various CME activities, a self-completed posted questionnaire survey was conducted among registered practitioners of a densely populated urban state in Malaysia. RESULTS Of the 172 respondents [male, 77%; hospital-based, 37%; general practitioner (GP), 55%; private practice, 70%; respondent rate of 19.5%], most preferred local conferences and endorsements by local experts to their foreign counterparts. Meetings or conferences sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry were ranked similarly with those without such links, while the reputation of the pharmaceutical firms was of foremost importance. Among GPs (n = 95) and non-GPs (n = 77), medical society newsletters were rated significantly higher by GPs while overseas conferences were rated higher by non-GPs. CONCLUSION Our findings provide an important first look at this under-explored area among Malaysian doctors and described a high degree of acceptance for the involvement of the pharmaceutical industry in CME activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Ali AM, Ang TH, Chelliah A. Impact of a spreading epidemic on medical students. Malays J Med Sci 2006; 13:30-36. [PMID: 22589602 PMCID: PMC3349482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2005] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) had caused fear and anxiety of unprecedented proportion. To examine the impact of SARS on the medical students in a private medical university, a self-reporting questionnaire study was carried out to assess the factual knowledge, anxiety level and perception of the crisis, among the students. The two-week study (between 12 and 23 May, 2003) was carried out three weeks after the first reported SARS-related death in Malaysia. Ninety-one Phase I (junior) and 113 Phase II (senior) students completed the questionnaires. A large majority of students of Phase I and II were correct in their factual knowledge and were sensible in their perception of the future and the handling of the crisis by government(s). However, phase 1 students expressed significantly greater degree of anxiety compared to Phase II in relation to attendance and personal protection in hospital, and in meeting people coughing in public places. The lesser degree of anxiety expressed by phase II senior students may be due in part, to a more realistic assessment of SARS risk brought about by maturity, time spent in hospital and interaction with clinical lecturers and medical staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Correspondence : Dr Li-Cher Loh MBBCh (Ireland), MRCP (UK), MD (London), Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Tel: (+606) 767 7798, Fax: (+606) 767 7709, E mail:
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Loh LC, Tan RY, Chan LY, Govindaraju S, Ratnavelu K, Kumar S, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Survival in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Who Opted out of Cancer-Specific Therapy. Malays J Med Sci 2006; 13:24-9. [PMID: 22589601 PMCID: PMC3349481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2005] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In Malaysia, many patients opted out of cancer-specific treatment for various reasons. This study was undertaken to investigate the survival rate of patients with stages I to III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who opted out of treatment, compared with those who accepted treatment. Case records of 119 patients diagnosed with NSCLC between 1996 and 2003 in two urban-based hospitals were retrospectively examined. Survival status was ascertained from follow-up medical clinic records or telephone contact with patients or their next-of-kin. Median (25-75% IQR) survival rate for 79 patients who accepted and 22 patients who opted out of treatment, were 8.6 (16.0-3.7) and 2.2 (3.5-0.8) months respectively [log rank p< 0.001, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis]. Except for proportionately more patients with large cell carcinoma who declined treatment, there was no significant difference between the two groups in relation with age, gender, ethnicity, tumour stage, and time delays between symptom onset and treatment or decision-to-treat. We concluded that there was a small but significant survival benefit in accepting cancer-specific treatment. The findings imply that there is no effective alternative therapy to cancer-specific treatment in improving survival. However, overall prognosis for patients with NSCLC remains dismal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Seremban
| | - Ru-Yu Tan
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Seremban
| | - Li-Yen Chan
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Seremban
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Loh LC, Yii CTJ, Lai KK, Seevaunnamtum SP, Pushparasah G, Tong JMG. Acinetobacter baumannii respiratory isolates in ventilated patients are associated with prolonged hospital stay. Clin Microbiol Infect 2006; 12:597-8. [PMID: 16700715 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2006.01411.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Loh LC, Lo WH, Kanabar V, O'Connor BJ. Lack of neutrophil degranulation in low-dose endotoxin inhalation based on a novel intracellular assay. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol 2006; 24:153-60. [PMID: 17136881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
To study the nature of endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation, we developed a method of quantifying intracellular human neutrophil elastase (HNE) in lysed sputum polymorphs as a means to study the degranulation status of LPS-recruited neutrophils. Induced sputum, blood and exhaled nitric oxide (NO) were collected from 10 healthy non-atopic human subjects after inhaling a single 15 microg dose of Escherichia coil LPS in an open study. At 6 hours, LPS inhalation caused significant increase of sputum and blood neutrophils but without parallel increase in myeloperoxidase, HNE or interleukin-8 (IL-8) in sputum sol and blood, or exhaled NO. Intracellular HNE in lysed sputum polymorphs or purified blood neutrophils did not show any significant changes between inhaled LPS and saline, nor was there any appreciable change in percentage HNE release induced by N-Formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) in vitro. We concluded that in healthy humans, the transient neutrophilic inflammation induced by a single dose of inhaled 15 microg LPS is mainly characterized by cell recruitment, not enhanced secretion of granular mediators or increased exhaled NO based on our experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, International Medical University, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Teh PN, Seth KD, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Ethnicity as a determinant of asthma-related quality of life in a multiracial country. Asia Pac J Public Health 2006; 18:49-55. [PMID: 16629438 DOI: 10.1177/10105395060180010801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In a multiracial country like Malaysia, ethnicity may influence the measurement of health-related quality of life (HRQL) in asthmatic patients. We invited 131 adult patients [44 Malays, 42 Chinese and 45 Indians; mean (95% CI) age: 43 (40.2-45.7) yrs; 28.2% male] with moderate-to-severe persistent asthma followed up in an urban-based hospital outpatient clinic to complete a disease-specific HRQL questionnaire [St Georges' Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ)] and to provide socio-demographic and asthma-related data. Indians reported significantly worse SGRQ total score, compared to Malays [mean (95% CI) difference: 10.15 (0.51-19.78); p = 0.037] and SGRQ activity score, compared to Malays [13.50 (1.95-25.05); p = 0.019] and Chinese [11.88 (0.19-25.05); p = 0.046]. Further analysis using multivariate linear regression showed that Indian ethnicity remained independently associated with SGRQ scores. Our finding highlights the relevance of ethnicity in assessing HRQL of asthmatic patients in a multiracial country such as Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- International Medical University Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur.
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Loh LC, Puah SH, Ho CV, Chow CY, Chua CY, Jayaram J, Kavetha C, Wong SJ. Disability and breathlessness in asthmatic patients--a scoring method by repetitive inspiratory effort. J Asthma 2006; 42:853-8. [PMID: 16393724 DOI: 10.1080/02770900500371138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Measurement of disability and breathlessness in asthma is important to guide treatment. Using an incentive spirometer, Triflo II (Tyco Healthcare, Mansfield, MA, USA), we developed a three-minute respiratory exercise test (3-MRET) to score the maximal breathing capacity (MBC) and perception of dyspnea (POD) index by means of repetitive inspiratory efforts achieved within 3 minutes. POD index was calculated based on the ratio of breathlessness on visual analogue scale over MBC score. In 175 normal healthy subjects and 158 asthmatic patients of mild (n = 26), moderate (n = 78), and severe (n = 54), severity, the mean (95% CI) MBC scores in mild, moderate, and severe asthma patients were 168 (145-192), 153 (136-169), and 125 (109-142) respectively, and 202 (191-214) in normal subjects (p < 0.001). The mean POD index in mild, moderate, and severe asthma patients was 16 (9-23), 25 (14-37), and 57 (14-100), respectively, and 6 (4-7) in normal subjects (p < 0.001). Intraclass correlation coefficients for MBC score and POD index in 17 asthmatic and 20 normal subjects were high. In 14 asthmatic patients randomized to receiving nebulized beta2-agonist or saline in a cross-over, double-blind study, % forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) change correlated with % change in MBC score [r(s) = 0.49, p < 0.01] and POD index [r(s)-0.46, p = 0.012]. In 21 asthmatic and 26 normal subjects, the MBC score and POD index correlated with the walking distance and walking POD index of the six-minute walking test (6MWT). We conclude that 3MRET is discriminative between asthmatic patients of varying severity and normal subjects, is reproducible, is responsive to bronchodilator effect, and is comparable with 6MWT. Taken together, it has the potential to score disability and POD in asthma simply and effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Department of Medicine, IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Seremban, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Vyas B, Kanabar V, Kemeny DM, O'Connor BJ. Inhaled endotoxin in healthy human subjects: A dose-related study on systemic effects and peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Respir Med 2006; 100:519-28. [PMID: 16039108 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2005.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2004] [Accepted: 05/31/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhaled endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is implicated in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases. We investigated the inhalation effects of two different doses of LPS in healthy human subjects. METHODS Eighteen healthy non-atopic human subjects inhaled either 15 microg (n=10) or 50 microg (n=8)Escherichia coli LPS in an open study. As control, each subject had isotonic saline inhalation 1 week before (baseline) and after LPS inhalation. Data collected included those of clinical parameter, induced sputum and peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. RESULTS Acute flu-like symptoms and pyrexia were significantly greater in the 50 microg than 15 microg LPS group. Similarly, the increase in sputum and blood total cell and neutrophil counts at 6h following inhaled LPS were greater in the 50 microg group. Myeloperoxidase, human neutrophil elastase and interleukin-8 in sputum sol, but not blood, showed a trend towards greater increase following 50 microg LPS. All these changes were resolved at one week. In the 50 microg dose group alone, there was a reduction in the proportion of peripheral blood interferon (IFN)-gamma-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells at 6h followed by an increase at 1 week after inhaled LPS. CONCLUSIONS The airway and systemic effects of inhaled LPS are dose-related and predominantly neutrophilic. The changes in the proportions of circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells suggests preferential recruitment of IFN-gamma-producing T cells into tissue from inhaled 50 microg LPS, followed by reappearance of these cells in blood 1 week later.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
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Loh LC. Community-acquired pneumonia in Malaysian patients: addition of macrolide and the use of BTS "curb" index to assess severity. Med J Malaysia 2006; 61:128-30. [PMID: 16708753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
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Loh LC, Chan LY, Tan RY, Govindaraju S, Ratnavelu K, Kumar S, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Time delay and its effect on survival in malaysian patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma. Malays J Med Sci 2006; 13:37-42. [PMID: 22589589 PMCID: PMC3347901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2005] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
While evidence indicates that early stage disease has better prognosis, the effect of delay in presentation and treatment of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) on survival is debatable. A retrospective study of 122 Malaysian patients with NSCLC was performed to examine the presentation and treatment delay, and its relation with patient survival. Median (25-75% IQR) interval between onset of symptoms and first hospital consultation (patient delay) and between first hospital consultation and treatment or decision to treat (doctor delay) were 2 (1.0- 5.0) and 1.1 (0.6-2.4) months respectively. The median survival rates in patient delay of <1, 1 to 3, and >3 months were 4.1 (9.9-1.7), 5.1 (10.9-3.2) and 5.7 (12.3-2.1) months respectively (log rank p=0.648), while in doctor delay, <30, 30-60, >60 days, the rates were 4.1 (10.8-1.8), 7.6 (13.7-3.2) and 5.3 (16.0-3.0) months respectively (p=0.557). Most patients presented and were treated in a relatively short time, and delays did not appear to influence survival. This Asian data is consistent with those from Western population, reiterating the need for public health measures that can identify disease early..
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Correspondence : Dr Li-Cher Loh MBBCh (Ireland), MRCP (UK), MD (London), Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Tel: (+606) 767 7798, Fax: (+606) 767 7709 E mail:
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Loh LC, Lai CH, Liew OH, Siow YY. Symptomatology and health status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Med J Malaysia 2005; 60:570-7. [PMID: 16515107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a growing health problem worldwide and in Malaysia. Until recently, research on COPD has been slow and difficult, partly due to the huge heterogeneity of this disease, and its variable and imprecise definitions. To perform a descriptive study on a convenient sample of local patients with COPD treated in a state hospital in Malaysia. Fifty-two patients [mean (95% CI) age: 67 (63-70) years; 86% male: 38% Malays, 36% Chinese, 25% Indians; mean (95% CI) PEFR: 45 (40-51) % predicted normal] were interviewed. Clinico-demographic data was collected using a structured questionnaire and health-related quality of life was scored using St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). For analysis, patients were also divided into moderate (n=17) [PEFR 50% to 80%] and severe (n=35) [PEFR < 50%] disease groups. Except for education and total family income, demographic and comorbidity variables were comparable between the two groups of COPD severity. All except 9% of patients were current or ex-smokers. Breathlessness, not chronic bronchitis (i.e. cough and sputum), was the first ranking respiratory symptom in over 70% of the patients, whether currently or at early disease manifestation. Between 5 and 15% of the patients denied any symptom of chronic bronchitis as current or early stage symptoms. Duration of symptoms prior to the diagnosis varied considerably with about 9% having symptoms for over 10 years. Over 80% of the patients smoked for over 15 years before the onset of symptoms. Quality of life in patients with COPI) was generally poor and similar between both COPD severity groups. About one fifth of the patients had exacerbations more than 12 times a year. While many features described in our local patients are well recognized in COPD, the finding that 'chronic bronchitis' is not a prominent symptom in the current or past history may have important implications in the diagnosis of at risk individuals and patients with early disease requiring attention. More research is required to confirm and to understand this.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Jalan Rasah, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Kanabar V, D'Amato M, Barnes NC, O'Connor BJ. Sputum induction in corticosteroid-dependant asthmatics: risks and airway cellular profile. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol 2005; 23:189-96. [PMID: 16572738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Sputum induction with nebulized hypertonic saline is increasingly being used to evaluate airway inflammation. We investigated the procedure-associated risk in 16 asthmatics that were still symptomatic despite on high doses of regular corticosteroid (CS) therapy (7 on daily inhaled CS > or = 800 microg budesonide or equivalent; 9 on additional daily oral CS) and their sputum cellular profile. For comparison, 12 mild stable asthmatics and 10 normal healthy subjects were included. All subjects inhaled 3%, 4% and 5% hypertonic saline sequentially via ultrasonic nebulizer as a means to induce sputum. Maximal percentage fall of Forced Expiratory Volume on One Second (FEV1) during sputum induction was significantly greater in CS-dependent asthmatics (median % [IQR]: 16.0 [11.0-32.3]) than in mild asthmatics (5.3 [4.2-10.8], p = 0.002] and in normal subjects (4.6 [3.4-6.4]), p = 0.0001). The maximal percentage FEV1 fall was inversely correlated with baseline FEV1 (Rs= -0.69; p < 0.0001). Compared to mild asthmatics, induced sputum from CS-dependant asthmatics had proportionately fewer eosinophils (2.2 [0.8-7.0] versus 23.3% [10.7-46.3], p = 0.003) and greater neutrophils (64.2 [43.9-81.2] versus 28.7 [19.0-42.6], p = 0.009). Sputum neutrophils showed a significant inverse correlation to FEV1 (Rs = -0.51, p = 0.01). We concluded that sputum induction using nebulized hypertonic saline should be performed with caution in CS-dependant asthmatics. The airway cellular profile observed suggests that the immunopathology underlying CS-dependant asthmatics may be different or a consequence of CS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, International Medical University, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Chan SK, Ch'ng KI, Tan LZ, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Influence of co-morbidity in the interpretation of tuberculin skin reactivity in multi-ethnic adult patients with tuberculosis. Med J Malaysia 2005; 60:426-31. [PMID: 16570703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
In the Malaysian setting of multi-ethnicity and high BCG coverage, interpretation of Tuberculin Skin Testing (TST) may be difficult. Between January 2001 and December 2003, a retrospective study on all adult patients with documented TST results treated for tuberculosis (TB) in chest clinics of two government hospitals was conducted to determine the reliability of TST and factors affecting its interpretation. One hundred and three patients [mean age (SD): 43 (17); male: 67%] were eligible for data collection: 72% and 57% of patients had positive TST results based on cut-off points of 10mm and 15mm respectively. The only significant univariate association with TST results was the severity of co-morbidity. A patient with co-morbidity score of 3 defined as those with any cancer, end-stage renal or liver disease, or HIV disease, was more likely to have a negative TST results [10mm cut-off point: Odd Ratio (95% CI) 6.6 (1.82 to 24.35), p = 0.003; 15mm cut-off point: 4.8 (1.21 to 18.95), p = 0.012]. A TST reading of 10mm had a higher sensitivity than 15mm as the cut-off point in diagnosing TB infection. Considering all possible confounding factors like ethnicity, prior BCG vaccination and TB burden in the population, severity of co-morbidity remains strongly predictive of a negative TST. Caution should be exercised in interpreting TST in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur
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Loh LC, Codati A, Jamil M, Noor ZM, Vijayasingham P. "Discovery to treatment" window in patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis. Med J Malaysia 2005; 60:314-9. [PMID: 16379186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Delay in commencing treatment in patients diagnosed with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) may promote the spread of PTB in the community. Socio-demographic and clinical data from 169 patients (119 retrospectively and 50 prospectively collected) treated for smear-positive PTB in our hospital Chest Clinic from June 2002 to February 2003 were analysed. One hundred and fifty eight (93.5%) patients were started on treatment in less than 7 days from the time when the report first became available while 11 (6.5%) patients had their treatment started > or = 7 days. The median 'discovery to treatment' window was 1 day (range, 0 to 24 days). Of the factors studied, longevity of symptoms, absence of fever or night sweats and having sought traditional medicine were associated with delay in treatment commencement. The urgency and importance of anti-TB treatment should be emphasized especially to patients who are inclined towards treatment with traditional medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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Loh LC, Ali AM, Ang TH, Chelliah A. Impact of a spreading epidemic on medical students. Malays J Med Sci 2005; 12:43-49. [PMID: 22605957 PMCID: PMC3349400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2004] [Revised: 03/20/2005] [Accepted: 04/03/2005] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) had caused fear and anxiety of unprecedented proportion. To examine the impact of SARS on the medical students in a private medical university, a self-reporting questionnaire study was carried out to assess the factual knowledge, anxiety level and perception of the crisis, among the students. The two-week study (between 12 and 23 May, 2003) was carried out three weeks after the first reported SARS-related death in Malaysia. Ninety-one Phase I (junior) and 113 Phase II (senior) students completed the questionnaires. A large majority of students of Phase I and II were correct in their factual knowledge and were sensible in their perception of the future and the handling of the crisis by government(s). However, phase 1 students expressed significantly greater degree of anxiety compared to Phase II in relation to attendance and personal protection in hospital, and in meeting people coughing in public places. The lesser degree of anxiety expressed by phase II senior students may be due in part, to a more realistic assessment of SARS risk brought about by maturity, time spent in hospital and interaction with clinical lecturers and medical staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Correspondence : Dr Li-Cher Loh MBBCh (Ireland), MRCP (UK), MD (London), Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Tel: (+606) 767 7798, Fax: (+606) 767 7709 E mail:
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Current clinical practice guidelines, including those in south Asia, recommend the addition of a macrolide to a broad-spectrum antibiotic for the treatment of severe hospitalized community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The aim of this study was to observe the influence of macrolide addition on clinical outcomes of hospitalized adult patients with CAP. METHODOLOGY Over a 16-month period between 2002 and 2004, 141 eligible patients were prospectively recruited from an urban-based teaching hospital in Malaysia. RESULTS Of the 141 patients, 63 (44.7%) patients (age (standard deviation (SD)) 56 (20.0) years; 50.8% male) received a macrolide-containing antibiotic regimen, while 78 (55.3%; age (SD) 57 (20.2) years; 52.6% male) were on a single broad-spectrum antibiotic only. In total, 39 (27.7%) and 102 (72.3%) patients had severe and 'non-severe' pneumonia, respectively. Irrespective of whether they had severe or non-severe pneumonia, there were no significant differences in mortality (non-severe pneumonia, 6.5% vs. 5.4%, P = 0.804; severe pneumonia, 17.6% vs. 18.2%, P = 0.966), need of ventilation (non-severe pneumonia, 8.7% vs. 3.6%, P = 0.274; severe pneumonia, 23.5% vs. 13.6%, P = 0.425) or median length of hospital stay (non-severe pneumonia, 5.5 vs. 5 days, P = 0.954; severe pneumonia, 7 vs. 6 days, P = 0.401) between the two treatment regimens. CONCLUSION This observational, non-randomized study suggests that addition of a macrolide may not convey any extra clinical benefits in adult hospitalized patients with CAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malalysia.
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Loh LC, Abdul Samah SZ, Zainudin A, Wong GLS, Gan WH, Yusuf WS, Vijayasingham P. Pulmonary disease empirically treated as tuberculosis-a retrospective study of 107 cases. Med J Malaysia 2005; 60:62-70. [PMID: 16250282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary disease is sometimes treated empirically as tuberculosis (TB) in the absence of microbial confirmation if the clinical suspicion of active TB is high. In a country of relatively high TB and low HIV burden, we retrospectively studied 107 patients (69.2% male; mean age (SD): 45 (17) years) who received empirical anti-TB treatment for intrapulmonary opacities or pleural effusions suspected of active TB in our hospitals between 1998 and 2002. The diagnosis of definite or probable 'smear-negative' pulmonary TB was made based on treatment outcome at two months with rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol (or streptomycin). At this end-point, 81 patients (84.4%) had both clinical and radiological improvement (definite cases), 12 (12.5%) had clinical improvement alone and 3 (3.1%) had radiological improvement alone (probable cases). Confirmation of acid-fast bacilli was subsequently obtained in 12 patients (all definite cases) from culture of initial pulmonary specimens. Eleven patients (10.5%) were diagnosed as 'non-TB' based on absence of both clinical and radiological improvement or discovery of another cause for the pulmonary condition at or before this two-month study end-point. In the 'non-TB' group, 2 had carcinoma, 2 had HIV-related pulmonary diseases, 1 had bronchiectasis, while in 6 causes were indeterminate. Six (6.3%) and 3 (27.3%) patients reported adverse effects from anti-TB drugs from the 'TB' and 'non-TB' groups respectively. Our findings suggest that empirical anti-TB treatment is an acceptable practice if clinical suspicion is high in patients coming in our region.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur
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Loh LC, Wong PS. Asthma prescribing practices of government and private doctors in Malaysia--a nationwide questionnaire survey. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol 2005; 23:7-17. [PMID: 15997869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
A self-answered, anonymously completed questionnaire survey was performed between June 2002 and May 2003 where doctors from government and private sectors in Malaysia were invited to participate by post or during medical meetings. One hundred and sixteen government doctors and 110 private doctors provided satisfactorily completed questionnaires (effective respondent rate: 30.1%). The most preferred medications for 'first-line', 'second-line' and 'third-line' treatment were for government doctors: inhaled short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) (98%), inhaled corticosteroids (CS) (75%), and leukotriene antagonist (52%); and for private doctors: oral SABA (81%), inhaled CS (68%), and oral CS (58%). The first choice inhaler device for most government and private doctors were metered dose inhalers, with cost and personal preferences (for private doctors), and technical ability (for government doctors) as the key considerations when deciding on the choice of device. This benchmark data on the asthma prescribing practices of a healthcare delivery system fully dichotomized into government and private sector, provides evidence for practice differences affected by the nature of the healthcare system, and might have implications on healthcare systems of other countries that share similarities with that of Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Khoo SK, Quah SY, Visvalingam V, Radhakrishnan A, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Adult community-acquired pneumonia in Malaysia: prediction of mortality from severity assessment on admission. Respirology 2005; 9:379-86. [PMID: 15363012 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1843.2004.00604.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prediction of mortality in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) can be assessed using clinical severity scores on admission to hospital. The clinical benefit of such tools is untested in Asian countries. The aim of this study was to determine the early adverse prognostic factors in patients hospitalized with CAP in Malaysia and to assess the usefulness of the British Thoracic Society (BTS) severity criteria. METHODOLOGY A prospective study was undertaken of all adult patients admitted between August 2002 and March 2003 in an urban-based university teaching hospital. RESULTS One hundred and eight patients (mean +/- SD age 55 +/- 20 years; 58% men) were eligible for the study. Thirteen patients (12%) died in hospital and 95 (88%) survived to hospital discharge. Older age, the presence of chronic illness, severity of comorbidity, reduced oxygen saturation and higher blood urea were associated with mortality during admission. Multivariate logistic regression of these variables identified reduced oxygen saturation as the only independently associated variable. BTS criteria fared poorly in predicting mortality compared with clinical assessment by attending clinicians (36-fold increased risk of death by 'clinical assessment' vs two-threefold by 'BTS criteria'). CONCLUSIONS In hospitalized patients with CAP, certain factors are adversely associated with mortality during admission. Severity criteria validated in specific countries might not be universally applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Loh LC, Teh PN, Raman S, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Incentive spirometry as a means to score breathlessness. Malays J Med Sci 2005; 12:39-50. [PMID: 22605946 PMCID: PMC3349412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2004] [Revised: 11/10/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2004] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Perceived breathlessness played an important role in guiding treatment in asthma. We developed a simple, user-friendly method of scoring perception of dyspnoea (POD) using an incentive spirometer, Triflo II (Tyco Healthcare, Mansfield, USA) by means of repetitive inspiratory efforts achieved within three minutes in 175 normal healthy subjects and 158 asthmatic patients of mild (n=26), moderate (n=78) and severe (n=54). Severity was stratified according to GINA guideline. The mean POD index in normal subjects, and asthmatic patients of mild, moderate and severe severity were: 6 (4-7) 16 (9-23), 25 (14-37), and 57 (14-100) respectively (p<0.001 One-Way ANOVA). Based on 17 asthmatic and 20 normal healthy subjects, intraclass correlation coefficients for POD index within subjects were high. In 14 asthmatic patients randomized to receiving nebulised b(2)-agonist or saline in a crossover, double-blind study, % FEV(1) change correlated with % changes in POD index [r(s) -0.46, p=0.012]. Finally, when compared with 6-minutes walking test (6MWT) in an open label study, respiratory POD index correlated with walking POD index in 21 asthmatic patients [r(s)= 0.58 (0.17 to 0.81) (p=0.007] and 26 normal subjects [0.50 (0.13 to 0.75) (p=0.008)]. We concluded that this test is discriminative between asthmatic patients of varying severity and from normal subjects, is reproducible, responsive to bronchodilator effect, and comparable with 6MWT. Taken together, it has the potential to score disability and POD in asthma effectively and simply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Cher Loh
- Correspondence : Dr Li-Cher Loh MBBCh (Ireland), MRCP (UK), MD (London), Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Tel: (+606) 767 7798 Fax: (+606) 767 7709, E mail:
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Loh LC, Chelliah A, Ang TH, Ali AM. Change in infection control practices and awareness of hospital medical staff in the aftermath of SARS. Med J Malaysia 2004; 59:659-64. [PMID: 15889569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic illustrated the crucial role of infection surveillance and control measures in the combat of any highly transmissible disease. We conducted an interview survey of 121 medical staff 145 doctors, 46 staff nurses and 30 medical assistants) in a state hospital in Malaysia three months after the end of SARS epidemic (from October to December 2003). Staff was grouped according to those directly involved in the care of suspected SARS patients [S+ group n=41] and those who were not [S- group; n=80]. On hand washing following sneezing, coughing and touching patients, the proportions of medical staff that reported an increase after the SARS crisis were 22.3%, 16.5% and 45.5% respectively. On wearing masks, gloves, and aprons when meeting potentially infectious patients, the proportions that reported an increase were 39.7%, 47.1% and 32.2% respectively. Significantly more staff in S+ than S- group reported these increases. Sixty percent of staff was aware of changes in hospital infection control policies after SARS; 93.4% was aware of notifying procedures, and 81.8% was aware of whom to notify in the hospital. Regarding infection isolation ward, Infectious Control Nurse and Infection Control Committee Chairman in the hospital, the proportions of staff that could correctly name them were 39.7%, 38.3% and 15.7% respectively. Significantly more in S+ than S- group could do so. However, more than half the staff claimed ignorance on the knowledge of infection isolation ward (56.2%), Infection Control Nurse (57.9%) and Chairman (65.3%). Our findings demonstrated that SARS crisis had some positive impact on the infection control practices and awareness of medical staff especially on those with direct SARS involvement. Implications for future control of infectious diseases are obvious.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- Department of Medicine, Clinical School, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban 70300, Negeri Sembilan
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Loh LC, Teng CL, Teh PN, Koh CN, Vijayasingham P, Thayaparan T. Metered-dose inhaler technique in asthmatic patients--a revisit of the Malaysian scene. Med J Malaysia 2004; 59:335-41. [PMID: 15727379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Inefficient metered-dose inhaler (MDI) technique results in poor drug delivery, suboptimal disease control a possibility of inhaled medication overuse. The MDI technique of 134 government hospital and clinic followed-up adult asthmatic patients followed-up in a government hospital and a heath clinic was pragmatically assessed based on the 3 obligatory steps of adequate lip seal, appropriate hand-breath coordination and sufficient breath holding after inhalation. The relationship between technique efficiency and frequency of daily short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) use via the MDI and asthma exacerbations over a 12-month period was also assessed. Fifty-six patients (42%) had inefficient MDI technique. All demographic and asthma-related variables between the 'efficient' and 'inefficient' technique groups of patients were comparable except for significantly longer mean years of MDI use in the 'efficient' technique group [mean (SD): 10 (7) vs. 7 (5); p=0.003]. There were no significant differences between the two groups in relation to frequency of daily SABA use or asthma exacerbations over the past 12 months. Despite having been available in Malaysia for a considerable period of time, the MDI device is still poorly handled by a large proportion of adult asthmatic patients. Changing to other more user-friendly devices or use of spacer devices to facilitate delivery should be considered for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Loh
- IMU Lung Research, International Medical University, Clinical School, Hospital Seremban, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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