Quality of life associated with chronic cough in the multinational Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study: a cross-sectional study

Background Chronic cough (CC) can impact daily life and persist for years. Its prevalence varies globally, but whether quality of life in CC also varies across regions is unknown. This study investigates the association of CC with mental and physical component scores of the 12-item Short Form Health Survey reflecting health-related quality of life in a multinational study. Methods We analysed data from 19 642 adults (⩾40 years), recruited between 2 January 2003 and 26 December 2016 in 31 sites (25 countries) from the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study, who provided information on quality of life and CC. We assessed associations using linear regression, adjusted for confounders, and used random-effects meta-analysis to examine differences by sex and gross national income. Findings Overall, lower mental (−1.42, 95% CI −2.11 to −0.73; I² =32.7%) and physical (−2.59, 95% CI −3.22 to −1.96; I²=40.1%) health scores were associated with CC. The association between physical health score and CC did not materially differ between sexes or gross national income. In males, physical health seems to be more affected by CC amongst those living in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). In females, mental health also seems to be more affected by CC amongst those living in LMICs. Interpretation CC impairs health-related quality of life globally. However, it appears that physical health in males and mental health in females living in LMICs may be particularly affected by CC. These findings support the need to consider CC as a target for specific interventions to attenuate its burden on health and the economy.