Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires effective management that often depends on the knowledge level of primary family caregivers. This study assessed caregiver knowledge using a validated scale and identified key factors associated with higher COPD knowledge. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April 2020 to January 2024 at a tertiary hospital in Southwest China. A total of 726 primary family caregivers of recently discharged COPD patients completed the general information questionnaire and the COPD health knowledge scale. Participants were categorized into high and low knowledge groups based on a predefined cutoff score of 21, reflecting adequate disease-related knowledge. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors. Higher educational attainment (OR = 126.568, 95% CI: 37.489-427.302, P < .001), receipt of COPD-specific health education (OR = 114.731, 95% CI: 33.426-393.804, P < .001), and older age (OR = 1.058 per year increase, 95% CI: 1.025-1.093, P < .001) were significantly associated with higher COPD knowledge. The predictive model showed excellent discrimination (C-index = 0.995) and good calibration, although external validation is needed to confirm its generalizability. This study identified education level, health education exposure, and age as key factors influencing caregiver COPD knowledge. The use of a fixed cutoff score enhances interpretability and external comparability. Targeted educational interventions may improve caregiver knowledge and support better disease management. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted to confirm causal relationships.