Woolcock Institute of Medical Research

Epidemiological investigation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the Australian Burden of Lung Disease (BOLD) study

Summary

Between 2006 and 2012 we conducted a series of cross-sectional studies to investigate the prevalence, risk factors and burden of COPD in Australian adults aged 40+ years. This Australian study formed part of a much larger international collaboration.  In Australia, approximately 3,500 adults participated and were enrolled from sites in Sydney, Melbourne, Busselton, The Kimberley, Rural NSW (Wagga Wagga, Orange and surrounding towns) and in Tasmania (Hobart and Launceston).

Supervisor(s)

Dr Brett Toelle, Professor Guy Marks

Research Location

Woolcock Institute of Medical Research
431 Glebe Point Road, Glebe NSW 2037

Program Type

Honours/Masters/Doctorate

Synopsis

The BOLD Australia dataset contains information about respiratory symptoms and diagnoses, medication use and actions taken to manage lung disease.  The questionnaire also has information about generic quality of life (SF12) and impact on social and work activities.  Other questions ask about exposure to tobacco smoke and occupational gases, dusts and fumes.

Objective tests were collected from participants and include post bronchodilator spirometry, atopy by skin prick test, airway resistance by forced oscillation technique and airway inflammation by forced exhaled nitric oxide.

Proposals for secondary analyses on this dataset will require Human Research Ethics Committee approval.

Contact

Dr Brett Toelle, Research Leader

Email: brett.toelle@woolcock.org.au