BACKGROUND: Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) greatly contribute to worldwide mortality. Despite new data emerging from Africa, prevalence estimates and determinants of CRDs in rural settings are limited. This study sought to extend the existing research conducted in urban Sudan by conducting a rural comparison.

METHODS: Participants aged ≥18 years (n = 1,850), living in rural Gezira State completed pre-and post-bronchodilator spirometry and a questionnaire. Prevalence of respiratory symptoms and spirometric abnormalities were reported. Regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for CRDs.

RESULTS: Prevalence of chronic airflow obstruction (CAO) was 4.1% overall and 5.5% in those aged ≥40 years. Reversibility was seen in 6.4%. Low forced vital capacity (FVC) was seen in 58.5%, and at least one respiratory symptom was present in 40.7% of the participants. CAO was more common among people aged 60–69 years (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.13–3.82) and less common among highly educated participants (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.27–0.93). Being underweight was associated with lower FVC (OR 3.07, 95% CI 2.24–4.20).

CONCLUSIONS: A substantial burden of CRD exists among adults in rural Sudan. Investment in CRD prevention and management strategies is needed.