Exercise in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic Obstructive pulmonary disease is continuing as a major public health problem across the globe, causing significant morbidity and affecting the quality of life more commonly among the elderly. This aim of the study was to assess whether a regular, routine 20 minute walk will help improve the quality of life and symptoms in patients with COPD. Patients selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and using a pretested questionnaire, were included in the study and data were collected. The questionnaire included information on basic demographic details, symptomatology, and smoking and alcohol habits. History, clinical examination, and selected investigations were done before and after a month of this exercise program. Qualitative data was analyzed using Chi-Square Test and Quantitative data using Paired T test The study population was mostly elderly males. Most of them gave history of smoking in the past and a few had biomass exposure. The most predominant symptom was dyspnea. After 2 months of regular exercise there was statistically significant change in CAT Score, mMRC score and six minute walk distance. The desaturation while doing Six minute walk test also improved after the exercise program. This study concluded that a regular physical activity can be considered as a possible alternative to pulmonary rehabilitation program for those who cannot afford the cost of consultations, transport for attending the program.