Reduced Physical Activity With Bronchiectasis

Background: Bronchiectasis leads to reduced functional capacity, which might have implications for physical activity. The impact of dyspnea and long-term oxygen therapy on physical activity has never been investigated in subjects with bronchiectasis. Based on these findings, specific strategies could be applied to allow individuals to be more active in their daily life. In this study we aimed to evaluate physical activity, the impact of dyspnea and long-term oxygen therapy on physical activity, and the determinants of physical activity in subjects with bronchiectasis.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in 139 subjects with bronchiectasis (age 45 ± 13 y, FVC 70 ± 22% of predicted, FEV₁ 54 ± 25% of predicted) and 49 healthy subjects as controls. Physical activity was assessed using steps per day (measured with a pedometer), spirometry, incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT), and dyspnea.

Results: Reduced physical activity was observed in subjects with bronchiectasis, who recorded a median (interquartile range) of 8,007 (5,131-10,432) steps/d compared with controls, who recorded 10,994 (8,551-14,078) steps/d (P < .001). Significant correlations were observed between physical activity and FVC (r = 0.43), FEV₁ (r = 0.36), ISWT (r = 0.37), and dyspnea (r = -0.48). Determinants for reduced physical activity included pulmonary function (R² = 0.150), dyspnea (R² = 0.075), ISWT (R² = 0.044), and long-term oxygen therapy (R² = 0.038); these factors explained 32% of the physical activity.

Conclusion: Subjects with bronchiectasis exhibited reduced physical activity compared with healthy peers. Dyspnea has a negative impact on physical activity. Independent factors associated with physical activity included pulmonary function, dyspnea, functional capacity, and long-term oxygen therapy. These findings will guide strategies to enhance daily physical activity and to encourage subjects with bronchiectasis to be more active.