Walking guide for COPD patients: Can be used as a promoter of physical activity?

INTRODUCTION Reduced funcional capacity has been associated with lower level of physical activity in COPD patients. OBJETIVES To examine the effects of the use a Walking guide (WG) designed for COPD patients, as an unsupervised physical activity program, on pulmonary functional capacity, and quality of life related to health compared with standard care. METHODS 25 men, moderate-severe COPD, dyspnea grade 2 (MMRC), randomized to 2 groups. Group WG (n=13): physical activity performed following the WG and group Control (n=12): standard recommended care. Assessment was performed at baseline and 1 year after: spirometry, 6MWT, BODE, CAT, Baecke questionnaire, antropometric data and physical activity with a triaxial accelerometer (Actigraph GTX-3). RESULTS The average age was 69.9 years. No baseline differences were found(values as median and interquartile range): FVC 79.1 (68-87), FEV1 54.1 (40-62), FEV1/FVC 46.5 (36-55), T6MM 494 (428-512), CAT 13 (7.5-15), steps/day 8113 (5586-12705). After intervention, there were differences in quality of life by using CAT score (p=0.0012), standing position (p=0.01), longer activity with moderate intensity (p=0.052) and minor amount of folds (p=0.01). Comparing two groups, there were differences in spirometry values in WG group FEV1% (p=0.02), FEV1/FVC (p=0.03) and longer stand position (p=0.02) in the control group. Baecke not improved (p=0.6), neither %fat (p=0.5), contrary to the results at 3 months (p=.005 y 0.03) respectively. CONCLUSIONS -One year later, there were improvements in CAT, physical activity and amount of folds in both groups. -WG group improves spirometry values -Our patients may have become less activity (Baecke) as in % fat 3 month later. Longer follow-up is neccesary.