A NEW study highlights the potential of the peripheral blood (neutrophil + monocyte)/lymphocyte ratio (NMLR) as a powerful predictor of 5-year all-cause mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This breakthrough could enhance risk stratification and long-term care strategies for individuals suffering from the condition.
The study analysed data from 870 COPD patients admitted due to acute exacerbations. Researchers observed that non-surviving patients had significantly higher NMLR values compared to survivors (3.88 vs. 2.95, P=0.000). Using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, they found that patients with an NMLR value of ≥5.90 had a dramatically increased 5-year mortality rate (27.3% vs. 12.4%, P=0.000).
The study also used COX regression and restricted cubic spline models, demonstrating that NMLR is an independent predictor of mortality risk (hazard ratio: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.28–2.64, P=0.001). Notably, a non-linear relationship between NMLR and COPD death risk was identified, suggesting a nuanced role of inflammation in patient outcomes.
“This study underscores the importance of systemic inflammation as a driver of mortality in COPD patients and highlights the NMLR as a simple, cost-effective tool for identifying high-risk individuals,” the authors noted.
As COPD remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, incorporating NMLR into clinical practice could enable more personalised treatment approaches, potentially improving patient survival and quality of life.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Li Y et al. Peripheral Blood NMLR Can Predict 5-Year All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Int J Chronic Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2025;20:95-105.
