A Comparison of the BODE Index and the GOLD Stage Classification of COPD Patients in the Evaluation of Physical Ability

Abstract

[Purpose] The aim of this cross-sectional study was to test whether the body mass index (BMI), airway obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity (BODE) index is superior to the global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease (GOLD) classification for physical ability, and to ascertain the usefulness of the BODE index in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. [Methods] We studied 48 patients with stable COPD (mean [±SD] age: 76.2±7.0 years). We measured BMI, modified medical research council (mMRC) dyspnea score, pulmonary function, muscle strength, timed up-and-go test (TUG), 6 minute walk distance (6MWD), and St. George's respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ). Comparisons of each measurement item in the BODE index quartile groups 1-2 and 3-4 were conducted for patients in GOLD Stages II and III. [Results] The mean total score for the BODE index was 3.9±2.9. The characteristics that showed a significant difference between the two groups were mMRC, %FVC, muscle strength, TUG and 6MWD. [Conclusions] This study showed that the GOLD classification assesses milder symptoms than the BODE index. The BODE index is as useful as the GOLD classification for physical ability, and also indicates comprehensive measures for COPD patients.