Fifteen-count breathlessness score in adults with COPD

The Fifteen-Count Breathlessness Score (15CBS) has been reported to quantify breathlessness. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the 15CBS in adults with COPD.

Using an observational correlation design, subjects with clinical signs and symptoms of COPD were videotaped performing the 15CBS at a self-selected (task 1) and an 8-s counting pace (task 2), on two occasions with 5-min rest between attempts. Respiratory-related quality of life questionnaires, self-report shortness of breath measures and pulmonary function tests were completed by all subjects.

Thirty subjects completed the protocol. No significant differences and good linear relationships were calculated for the 15CBS within subjects (task 1 P = 0.32, r = 0.75 and task 2 P = 1.00, r = 0.86) and between assessors (task 1 P = 0.57, r = 0.99 and task 2 P = 0.21, r = 0.75). No significant relationships were evident between the 15CBS and shortness of breath or quality of life scores. Significant relationships existed between the 15CBS and FVC (litres and per cent predicted).

Most subjects completed the 15CBS using one breath, limiting discrimination between subjects with differing degrees of breathlessness. Although data from this study confirmed that the 15CBS is a reliable procedure within people with COPD, further modification is required to increase the validity and discriminative ability of this instrument.