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Physical inactivity and arterial stiffness in COPD
Noriane A Sievi1, Daniel Franzen1, Malcolm Kohler2
1Division of Pulmonology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
|September 23, 2015
Summary
Daily physical activity may reduce arterial stiffness in COPD patients. Higher physical activity levels (PAL) are associated with lower augmentation index (AI), potentially lowering cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Arterial stiffness is a key cardiovascular risk predictor.
- COPD patients exhibit increased arterial stiffness compared to healthy individuals.
- Physical inactivity is common in COPD, while exercise may improve arterial stiffness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between daily physical activity level and arterial stiffness in COPD patients.
- To determine if lower physical activity correlates with increased arterial stiffness in this population.
Main Methods:
- 123 COPD patients (mean age 62 years) were studied.
- Arterial stiffness was measured using augmentation index (AI).
- Daily physical activity level (PAL) was assessed over one week using an activity monitor.
Main Results:
- A negative association was found between PAL and AI (P=0.017).
- Higher PAL was independently linked to lower AI, regardless of age, sex, blood pressure, and airflow limitation.
- Patients had moderate to very severe COPD; 22% were active smokers.
Conclusions:
- Increased daily physical activity (PAL) in COPD patients is associated with reduced arterial stiffness.
- Higher PAL may favorably impact arterial stiffness, potentially decreasing cardiovascular risk in COPD.
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