A new analysis of existing studies looked at how well people with COPD accept and stick with long-term noninvasive positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. This treatment uses a machine to help with breathing and is often prescribed for people with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure or obstructive sleep apnea.
The review found that about 14% of patients either declined the therapy or stopped using it, often within the first six weeks. Among those who continued, the median use was about 6.3 hours per day. This means roughly six out of seven patients were able to use the therapy successfully.
However, the researchers caution that the studies varied widely, and the reasons for stopping were not fully explained by the medical condition. The analysis highlights the need for more consistent research to understand why some patients struggle with PAP therapy.
For now, the findings offer a realistic picture: most patients with COPD can use long-term PAP therapy, but a significant minority may need extra support to start or continue treatment.