Does Smoking Cessation affect symptoms and FEV1 in smokers with mild COPD?

Smoking Cessation is the main recommendation for all patients with COPD, but its effect on airway obstruction on spirometry, COPD symptoms, and the frequency of exacerbations in patients with mild COPD remains unclear. We observed 24 patients with mild COPD for 3 years. The average age of patients at the time of inclusion in the study was 47 years, the duration of Smoking ranged from 15 to 40 years. All patients 1 time per year filled out a questionnaire designed specifically for this study to assess complaints and smoking habits. Assessments also included the mMRC scale. Motivational conversations allowed 58% (n=14) of patients to quit smoking, and 42% (n=10) to continue smoking. The survey results showed that the majority of smokers reported coughing (91%), including sputum (56%). Patients did not often give a positive response for dyspnea, but on mMRC-scale they rated dyspnea 0-1 in 32% and 2 or more points in 5% of cases. More than half of the respondents indicated the presence of two or more exacerbations per year, usually associated with an episode of respiratory infection. After 3 years, complaints of coughing and shortness of breath decreased in the group of patients who gave up Smoking, and 64% (n=9) had a reduced incidence of exacerbations. Spirometric indicators in all patients corresponded to GOLD 1. In the group of patients who continue to smoke, 30% (n=3) increased the intensity and frequency of complaints, the rest remained at the same level, but 80% (n=8) increased the frequency of exacerbations. In 20% (n=2) of patients, spirometric parameters corresponding to GOLD 2 were registered. We plan to continue our research with more observations over a longer period.