Contextualising COPD self-management in Malaysia: insights from a qualitative photo-elicitation study of patients-caregiver dyads.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) being a key intervention, uptake and adherence remain low due to economic, geographical, and sociocultural barriers. We explored the lived experiences of individuals with COPD and their caregivers in Malaysia to identify contextually grounded self-management strategies.

Methods

We employed a qualitative photo-elicitation approach between January and December 2024. We purposively sampled adults with COPD and their caregivers based on age, gender, and ethnicity from a hospital-based outpatient PR centre in Selangor, Malaysia. We conducted semi-structured dyadi

SUBMITTER: Salim H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12599578 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature