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Updated: May 10, 2026

Visualization of Intensity Levels to Reduce the Gap Between Self-Reported and Directly Measured Physical Activity
Published on: March 7, 2019
Functional and psychological variables both affect daily physical activity in COPD: a structural equations model
Wytske A Altenburg1, Linda Bossenbroek, Mathieu H G de Greef
1University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, P.O. Box 30001, Internal Mail Address AA11, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Center for Rehabilitation, Groningen, P.O. Box 30002, Internal Mail Address CD24, 9750 RA Haren, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, P.O. Box 30001, Internal Mail Address FA40, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands.
Daily physical activity (DPA) is lower in COPD patients. This study found DPA is linked to functional capacity and indirectly to psychological factors, especially in those with lower functional status.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Daily physical activity (DPA) is often reduced in patients diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- Understanding factors influencing DPA is crucial for managing COPD patients.
- This study aimed to explore the relationship between DPA and functional/psychological variables in COPD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between daily physical activity (DPA) and functional capacity in COPD patients.
- To examine the relationship between DPA and psychological factors in COPD patients.
- To elucidate the interplay between DPA, functional capacity, and psychological status in COPD.
Main Methods:
- 155 COPD patients (median age 62 years, 60% predicted FEV1) were assessed for DPA using DigiWalker SW-200.
- Functional capacity was evaluated using standard measures, including the six-minute walking distance.
- Psychological factors were assessed using validated questionnaires, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.
Main Results:
- DPA showed significant associations with all measured functional capacity variables.
- DPA was also associated with the Perceived Physical Ability Subscale and depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.
- Regression analysis indicated that six-minute walking distance and St. George Respiratory Questionnaire activity score explained 37% of DPA variance. Structural equation modeling revealed psychological factors indirectly influenced DPA through functional capacity.
Conclusions:
- Higher DPA levels correlate with better functional capacity in COPD patients.
- Psychological factors indirectly impact DPA, mediated by functional capacity.
- Further research is needed to explore the effects of psychological interventions on DPA and exercise tolerance in COPD.
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