Study To Assess Clinical And Prognostic Implication Of Nutritional Status On Copd Exacerbations

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition that can lead to frequent exacerbations. Poor nutritional status
is one of the most common problems in COPD patients and it may worsen the course of the disease. This study aims to
investigate the prevalence of malnutrition in COPD patients hospitalized for exacerbations and evaluate how their nutritional
health impacts the severity and prognosis of these episodes.
Methods: The study includes patients admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of moderate-to-severe COPD exacerbation.
Nutritional status was assessed using various methods, including body mass index (BMI), mid arm circumference, Triceps skin
fold thickness, waist circumference. Additional data was collected, including lung function tests (spirometry), results of a 6-
minute walk test, markers of exacerbation severity, length of hospital stay, and rates of readmission within a specific timeframe
(6 months)
Results: In this study, we found that malnourished COPD patients were at increased risk of severe exacerbations, longer
hospitalization duration, and higher mortality compared to their well-nourished counterparts. There was no significant
association between gender and severity of COPD (p> 0.05). The association between nutritional status and severity of COPD
was significant (p< 0.05).
Conclusion: Malnutrition is associated with increased exacerbation severity, and higher mortality rates, highlighting the need
for integrated nutritional assessment and management in COPD care. • Future research should focus on identifying optimal
nutritional interventions to improve exacerbation outcomes and overall prognosis in COPD patients.