{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Characteristics, demographics, and epidemiology of possible chronic cough in Sweden: A nationwide register-based cohort study.
{Author}: Walz L;Illergård K;Arpegård J;Dorbesi C;Johansson H;Ingi Emilsson Ö;
{Journal}: PLoS One
{Volume}: 19
{Issue}: 7
{Year}: 2024
{Factor}: 3.752
{DOI}: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303804
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To show clinical characteristics, treatments, and comorbidities in chronic cough in a nationwide cohort.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Two cohorts were created. A national cohort with individuals from two population-based databases; the National Patient Register and Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Secondly, a regional cohort including primary care data. Adults with at least one cough diagnosis (ICD-10 R05) and/or individuals with ≥2 dispensed prescriptions for relevant cough-medication within the inclusion period, 2016-2018, were identified. Individuals on medications which may instigate cough or suggest acute infection or diagnosed with conditions where cough is a cardinal symptom, were excluded. Those remaining were defined as having possible refractory or unexplained chronic cough (RCC/UCC).<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Altogether 62,963 individuals were identified with possible RCC/UCC, giving a national prevalence of about 1%. Mean age was 56 years and 60% were females. Many (44%) of the individuals with possible RCC/UCC visited cough relevant specialist clinics during the study period, but less than 20% received a cough diagnosis. A majority (63%) had evidence of RCC/UCC in the 10 years prior to inclusion in the study. In the regional cohort, including primary care data, the prevalence of RCC/UCC was doubled (2%). Cough medicines were mainly prescribed by primary care physicians (82%).<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Most individuals with possible RCC/UCC sought medical care in primary care, and had a long history of cough, with various treatments tried, indicating a substantial burden of the condition. Referrals to specialist care were very rare. The results underline the need for a structured multidisciplinary approach and future therapeutic options.