Protocol for Community-based Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Nepal: a Community-based Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth most important cause of death worldwide and is one of the commonest non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nepal. The presence of risk factors like indoor and outdoor air pollution, the high prevalence of smoking and lack of general awareness of COPD makes it a serious public health concern. However, no attempt has been made in Nepal to estimate its burden and address the disease at the community level. This community-based cluster randomized controlled study aims to fulfil that gap through mobilization of Female Community Health Workers (FCHVs) who will be trained to perform a certain set of health promotion activities aimed at prevention of the disease and its progression. Baseline and follow-up surveys will be conducted to compare the intervention and control groups. This study has the potential to generate evidence in helping address NCDs in Nepal and also other similar resource-limited countries.