PRISA Study (Pulmonary Risk in South America)

Detection and follow up of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and COPD risk factors in the Southern Cone

This population-based prospective cohort study about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is currently being conducted in four Southern Cone cities: Marcos Paz and Bariloche (Argentina), Temuco (Chile), and Pando-Barros Blancos-Colonia Nicolich (Uruguay).

PRISA will also allow us to study COPD-related conditions and the determining factors for lung function impairment over time.

The study used multistage random sampling and enrolled over 4,000 adults (both men and women) between 45 and 74 years of age. Participants’ health was assessed through questionnaires, spirometry, clinical measurements, and laboratory tests. The study began in 2009 and is currently in a follow-up phase.

Objective: to determine the prevalence and incidence of COPD and COPD risk factors, as well as the changes in lung function over time in the adult population of four Southern Cone cities.