Lean BMIs as markers of malnutrition in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Background Malnutrition is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a relevant concern that may even affect prognosis. A significant number of COPD patients with normal weight also suffer muscle wasting. Objective The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional status of COPD patients with chronic respiratory failure. Patients and methods The present prospective analytic case-control study was conducted in the Chest Department, Assiut University Hospital, during the period from January 2013 to February 2014. Sixty-seven COPD patients with chronic respiratory failure and 68 controls were studied according to their nutritional status and body composition using creatinine height and fat-free mass indices. Results The majority of COPD patients were found to be overweight. As regards body composition, the lean body mass using the fat-free mass index and the creatinine height index was significantly decreased in COPD patients compared with controls. Conclusion Malnutrition is a common feature among COPD patients. COPD patients have significantly decreased lean body mass.