Correlation Of Six-Minute Walk Test, Dyspnea Severity, And Spirometric Indices In Patients With Copd Exacerbations In A Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disorder characterized by airflow limitation, inflammation, and reduced functional capacity. While spirometry remains the diagnostic gold standard, its limited availability in resource-restricted settings highlights the need for alternative functional assessments such as the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the COPD Assessment Test (CAT). Evidence regarding their relationship during exacerbations remains limited.

Aim: To evaluate the correlation between 6MWT, dyspnea severity, and spirometric indices among patients with COPD experiencing exacerbations.

Methods: This prospective observational study was performed in the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, from December 2023 to December 2024. A total of 102 COPD patients aged ≥40 years fulfilling GOLD diagnostic criteria were included. Patients with major comorbidities, neurological or rheumatological disorders, active or past tuberculosis, pregnancy, or refusal to consent were excluded. CAT scoring and 6MWT were conducted according to standard guidelines, and spirometric parameters were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25 with chi-square test, paired t-test, and Pearson correlation.

Results: Younger age, lower mMRC dyspnea grade, non-smoking status, and lower CAT scores were significantly associated with greater 6MWT distance (p<0.05). Gender did not significantly influence 6MWT outcomes. Strong negative correlations were observed between CAT scores, dyspnea severity, smoking history, and 6MWT performance.

Conclusion: The 6MWT correlates significantly with dyspnea severity, symptom burden, and smoking exposure in COPD exacerbations, supporting its utility as a practical functional assessment tool, especially in settings with limited access to spirometry.