CHEST Guidelines-The-Impact-of-Fluctuations-in-Pack-Year-Smoking-Hi

The-Impact-of-Fluctuations-in-Pack-Year-Smoking-Hi

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The document primarily discusses two separate studies: one on the adherence and usage of selective Upper-Airway Stimulation (sUAS) therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and another on the impact of electronic health record fluctuations on lung cancer screening practices.<br /><br />The first study focuses on the utilization of sUAS therapy among OSA patients, highlighting high adherence rates. Specifically, 77.4% of patients used the device for 4 hours or more per night, with 55.7% using it for more than 6 hours. This indicates a promising adherence to the therapy, comparable to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The study suggests future research should explore the impact of high adherence to sUAS on cardiovascular disorders and other health outcomes.<br /><br />The second study examines how fluctuations in patients' smoking history records in electronic health records (EHRs) affect lung cancer screening referrals. It reveals that changes in documented pack-year (PY) smoking history potentially reduce the likelihood of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) referrals by primary care physicians. Specifically, patients whose documented smoking exposure reduced from over 30 PY to under 10 PY were less frequently referred for LDCT, despite previous documentation. This inconsistency in EHR documentation could result in missed opportunities for appropriate lung cancer screening.<br /><br />Both studies highlight the importance of accurate data recording and patient adherence to therapy in improving health outcomes. The first emphasizes the need for further studies on the effects of sUAS adherence, while the second urges more accurate EHR documentation and a thoughtful redesign to ensure high-risk patients receive necessary screenings. This research underscores the critical role of precise and updated health records and adherence monitoring in patient care and treatment efficacy.

Keywords

selective Upper-Airway Stimulation

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

sUAS therapy

adherence rates

electronic health records

lung cancer screening

pack-year smoking history

low-dose computed tomography

health outcomes

cardiovascular disorders