Increasing physical activity in people with COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent respiratory disease that is characterised by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation, primarily affecting individuals with a history of exposure to cigarette smoke and/or other noxious particles and gases (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease [GOLD], 2020). The most common respiratory symptoms include dyspnea (breathlessness), cough and/or sputum production (GOLD, 2020). In addition to progressive chronic airflow limitation and the associated levels of dyspnea, many patients also suffer extra-pulmonary effects, including skeletal muscle dysfunction/wasting and weight loss, leading to reductions in functional capacity and physical activity (Watz et al, 2014). Although regular physical activity is recommended by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) statement on physical activity, it remains well acknowledged that levels of activity are significantly lower in patients with COPD compared to healthy age-matched individuals (Troosters et al, 2010; Watz et al, 2014). Furthermore, physical activity levels have been recognised as a key predictor of mortality and hospitalisation in patients with COPD, making physical inactivity a key risk factor that health professionals must consider when prescribing management goals to patients with COPD (Garcia-Aymerich et al, 2006).