Relationship of material deprivation with emergency or unplanned healthcare utilisation in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: analysis from an Asthma+Lung UK survey

Abstract

Background Various forms of deprivation have been linked to poor health. Emergency and unplanned healthcare utilisation (EUHU) is inefficient and represents suboptimal chronic disease management. Understanding the relationship between material deprivation—the inability to afford certain basic items of living—and EUHU in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may identify intervention targets. However, research is limited. This study investigates the relationship between material deprivation and the frequency of EUHU. Methods Data were analysed from 3472 individuals with COPD who completed an online Asthma+Lung UK survey (January–March 2024). The relationship was assessed between material deprivation (nine-item European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions survey) and self-reported frequency of EUHU in the preceding year in five categories. Results People experiencing material deprivation had higher odds of reporting a higher frequency of EUHU compared with those who were not (OR 1.27, 95%CI 1.08 to 1.49, p=0.005), independent of identified confounders. Associations were also seen with six of the nine individual items including not being able to afford mortgage/rent/utility bills, cars, unexpected expenses, heating, decent meal or a holiday. Living in cold or damp housing was associated with increased EUHU. Discussion and conclusion Material deprivation is associated with more frequent emergency and unplanned healthcare utilisation in COPD. Interventions targeting material deprivation may improve health outcomes and reduce EUHU.