Obesity Impact on Dyspnea in COPD Patients

Obesity Impact on Dyspnea in COPD Patients

Background

The study aimed to assess the impact of obesity on dyspnea in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and investigate the relationship between obesity and dyspnea severity in COPD.

Methods

127 COPD patients with a BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m² were included. Dyspnea was assessed using the mMRC scale, and lung function tests were conducted. Emphysema was quantified using CT-scan.

Results

– 25% of patients were obese (BMI ≥ 30kg/m²)
– 66% of patients experienced disabling dyspnea (mMRC ≥ 2)
– Dyspnea severity did not differ based on BMI categories
– Increased dyspnea scores were associated with decreased post BD-FEV1, higher lung hyperinflation, reduced DLCO, and higher emphysema scores
– Obese patients had reduced lung hyperinflation and lower emphysema scores compared to non-obese patients
– Dyspnea increased with GOLD grades in non-obese patients but not in obese patients

Conclusion

In contrast with non-obese patients, dyspnea did not increase with spirometric GOLD grades in obese patients. This may be due to reduced lung hyperinflation and less severe emphysema in severe COPD patients with obesity.

Value

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