Are there Clinically Relevant Benefits in a Structured Program of Physical Activity in COPD? Activepoc Study

Introduction: Physical activity (AF) is the best predictor of survival in patients with COPD. We aimed to assess the impact on the level of PA, symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following a program of physical training and orientation in community self-administered structured physical activity (ACTIVEPOC Program). Material and Methods: Prospective intervention study conducted in patients with COPD. An educational and training program was offered during 8 sessions of 45 minutes that were taught during a month and that included general and specific aerobic training techniques of the peripheral musculature, to be carried out at home and self-administered. Results: A total of 133 patients were evaluated (mean age 67 ± 7 years, 66.9% were women, average BMI of 27.19 kg / m2, 10% active smokers, with a predicted median FEV1 54% (18- 109), and dyspnea grade2 in 77.51%, 56% were treated with double bronchodilation and 22.6% triple therapy). At the beginning, they presented a CAT of 13 ± 6.5; EUROQOL 5D of 0.88 ± 0.12, HADS of 5.03 ± 3.71 in the anxiety subscale. 47.2% were sedentary according to the YALE questionnaire, with a C-PPAC score of 33.87 ± 7.76 and an average number of steps / day of 4102.41 ± (1786). At 3 months, they reached clinically relevant changes in degree of dyspnea (≥1 degree MRC) 59.8%, in CAT (≥2 points) 59.6%, in EUROQOL 5D, in 43.03% and in HAD, 42% of patients. In physical activity, at 3 months only 24.4% were sedentary by Yale questionnaire, and the C-PPAC was 38.5 ± 5.79. 81% of patients improved more than 1100 steps a day. Conclusions: The ACTIVEPOC program has proven effective in improving the level of PA, symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with COPD.