Early detection of airflow limitation in smokers in remote areas of Poland

Spirometric screening for airflow obstruction in smokers is easy in large cities. However, 38% of the population of Poland live in villages. The aim of the study was to assess feasibility of such screening in people attending Sunday mass using parochial church facilities in small remote communities. Study was performed in a small town and a village near Warsaw. Attendance was higher in town (9% of believers attending holy mass as compared 5% in the village). However, airflow obstruction was found in 38% of farmers as compared to 21% of the town dwellers. In conclusion spirometric screening in small communities performed in the parochial facility on Sunday morning is feasible, easy and fruitful.