| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1087655 | Public Health | 2012 | 7 Pages |
SummaryObjectivesTo ensure that decisions on the future planning of the Scottish Home Oxygen Service reflect population needs by examining the epidemiology of the main conditions that require home oxygen therapy and trends in their management.Study designAnalysis of routinely available vital event and health service data supplemented by published literature. Use of linked data to provide person-based analyses.MethodsConsideration of trends in key risk factors, disease incidence, prevalence and mortality for chronic neonatal lung disease, cystic fibrosis, chronic interstitial lung disease in adults and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Examination of trends in management of these conditions including hospital admissions, length of stay and re-admissions.ResultsThe prevalence of all the conditions studied has increased in Scotland over recent years due to a combination of increased incidence, increased survival, more active case finding and demographic changes. There have been changes in management with trends towards shorter hospital stays.ConclusionsThe clinical need for home oxygen therapy is likely to continue to increase over the next 10–20 years. It will encompass all age groups and a complex range of conditions. Public health needs to be proactive in providing relevant needs assessment information to ensure that planning within financial constraints is appropriately informed on population needs.
