Abstract
BackgroundPatients with COPD use a higher proportion of their peak aerobic capacity during the performance of domestic activities of daily life (ADLs) compared to healthy peers, accompanied by a higher degree of task-related symptoms. To date, the influence of body mass index (BMI) on the task-related metabolic demands remains unknown in patients with COPD. Therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the effects of BMI on metabolic load during the performance of 5 consecutive domestic ADLs in patients with COPD.MethodologyNinety-four COPD patients and 20 healhty peers performed 5 consecutive, self-paced domestic ADLs putting on socks, shoes and vest; folding 8 towels; putting away groceries; washing up 4 dishes, cups and saucers; and sweeping the floor for 4 min. Task-related oxygen uptake and ventilation were assessed using a mobile oxycon, while Borg scores were used to assess task-related dyspnea and fatigue.Principal Findings1. Relative task-related oxygen uptake after the performance of domestic ADLs was increased in patients with COPD compared to healthy elderly, whereas absolute oxygen uptake is similar between groups; 2. Relative oxygen uptake and oxygen uptake per kilogram fat-free mass were comparable between BMI groups; and 3. Borg symptom scores for dyspnea en fatigue were comparable between BMI groups.ConclusionPatients with COPD in different BMI groups perform self-paced domestic ADLs at the same relative metabolic load, accompanied by comparable Borg symptom scores for dyspnea and fatigue.
Highlights
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by pathological changes of the respiratory system, but has significant systemic consequences like involuntary weight loss and skeletal muscle dysfunction [1,2]
One hundred COPD patients and 25 healthy peers volunteered to participate in the present study, which was approved by the institutional review board of the Maastricht University Medical Centre (MEC08-3-032)
Patients had mild to very severe COPD, a normal body mass index (BMI) and a poor exercise capacity
Summary
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by pathological changes of the respiratory system, but has significant systemic consequences like involuntary weight loss and skeletal muscle dysfunction [1,2]. These systemic changes adversely affect patients exercise performance, quality of life and prognosis [2]. An overweight or obese body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) is strongly associated with a decreased compliance of the respiratory system, a restrictive lung function, increased airway resistance, and increased work of breathing [1] This can result in a worsening of dyspnea, increased physical limitations and decreased quality of life [1]. The aim of our study was to determine the effects of BMI on metabolic load during the performance of 5 consecutive domestic ADLs in patients with COPD
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