B78-16 Determinants of Bronchiectasis Among Patients Attending Chest Clinic in Ethiopia: A Multicenter Case Control Study

Rationale

Bronchiectasis is a chronic pulmonary disorder characterized by irreversible airway dilation, which leads to recurrent infection, persistent inflammation, and progressive lung damage. Given its considerable global health impact, identifying its key etiological factors is critical for improving early diagnosis and disease management strategies.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter case-control study across three tertiary care hospitals from April 1, 2022, to June 30, 2022. A total of 468 participants were enrolled: 117 patients with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)-confirmed bronchiectasis (cases) and 231 age- and sex-matched controls without radiological evidence of bronchiectasis, maintaining a 1:3 ratio. Data on demographics, medical history, and potential risk factors were systematically collected via structured questionnaire and medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Associations were analysed using Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors.

Results

Half of the study participants (50.9%) were males, and the median age was 51 years. There was no significant difference in smoking history between the case and control groups. After adjusting for age, sex, and smoking history, the multivariable logistic regression identified four independent predictors of bronchiectasis. A history of pulmonary tuberculosis demonstrated the strong association (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.16-12.10; p < 0.001). Significant associations were also observed for a prior diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (AOR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.46-5.75; p = 0.002), bronchial asthma (AOR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.09-4.15; p = 0.028), and COVID-19 pneumonia (AOR = 2.79; 95% CI: 1.45-5.34; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

This multicenter study confirms that a history of pulmonary tuberculosis, COPD, bronchial asthma, and severe COVID-19 are significant and independent risk factors for the development of bronchiectasis. These findings underscore the importance of proactive screening and longitudinal monitoring for bronchiectasis in patients with these antecedent or concomitant respiratory conditions to facilitate early intervention and improve clinical outcomes.

This abstract is funded by: None