ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence and risk factors of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in urban and rural male residents of Chengdu city. MethodsA cross-sectional survey about the incidence of COPD using cluster random sampling methods was carried out from February to December 2010 among male residents aged 40 to 70 years in four communities in Chengdu city, which was conducted by applying questionnaire survey, physical examination, portable spirometry, etc. Data was analyzed by using SPSS 18.0 software, and the risk factors were also analyzed by using the multivariate logistic methods. ResultsA total of 631 male residents were included, 301 urban and 330 rural. The results showed that: after population standardization, among male residents aged 40 to 70 years in four communities in Chengdu city, the overall prevalence of COPD was 7.95%, and the prevalence was 12.07% in rural area and 7.05% in urban area (P < 0.001). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that area, age, BMI and smoking volume were the main risk factors of COPD among male. ConclusionThe prevalence of COPD in Chengdu city is relatively higher, which is much higher in rural area than that in urban area. The risk factors are various, and thus comprehensive prevention and treatment of COPD should be emphasized.