15 Feb 2023 • A new 5-question tool to help identify adults with undiagnosed, treatable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) has been developed with the support of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The efficacy of the new screening tool was examined in a studyTrusted Source published today in the journal JAMA Network.

Researchers conducted a multi-year, multi-site clinical trial from October 2018 until April 2022 with 4,325 participants between 45 and 80 years of age. They used the COPD Assessment in Primary Care to Identify Undiagnosed Respiratory Disease & Exacerbation Risk (CAPTURETrusted Source) screening tool. Researchers said the CAPTURE system identified 53 of 110 previously undiagnosed study participants who had moderate to severe COPD. However, the screening tool also provided 479 false positives.

Details on the COPD screening assessment -

• The CAPTURE screening tool consists of a five-question assessment.
• A score of 2 to 4 is indicative of moderate breathing issues.
• Those participants then take peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) test that measures the force of exhalation or lung function. For women, a score of less than 250L/min suggests further COPD testing is needed. For men, it is 350 L/min.
• People who score 5 or 6 on the CAPTURE screening do not need the PEFR. Instead, it’s recommended they have COPD testing.

Source: Healthline | Read full story"