Impact of COPD Phenotype on Disease Specific HR-QoL using CAT and SGRQ-C Score: A Hospital-based Observational Study
TL;DR
The AE non CB and AE-CB phenotypes were found to have the most significant impact on HR-QoL among COPD patients, suggesting that individuals with the AE-CB phenotype notably require a tailored treatment approach that specifically addresses both the frequent exacerbations and the chronic bronchitis component to improve their overall QoL.
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The chronic and progressive nature of the disease significantly affects patients’ Quality of Life (QoL). Tools like the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ-C) are widely used to assess HealthRelated Quality of Life (HR-QoL) in these patients. Aim: To determine the impact of COPD phenotypes on diseasespecific HR-QoL using CAT and SGRQ-C score. Materials and Methods: This hospital based observational study was conducted at RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, between the period of July 2024 to February 2025. All Diagnosed cases of COPD, as per GOLD guideline, with age above 40 years were included for the study. Patients with significant medical condition and pregnant or lactating women were excluded from the study. The total number of patients included were 160. The modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Questionnaire was used to quantify the severity of breathlessness along with CAT score. The CAT and SGRQ-C, patient-administered questionnaire was used for HR-QoL assessment. Independent sample t-test and ANOVA test were used to compare the variables. Statistical analysis was done using MS excel and JAMOVI software version 6.2. Results: A total of 40 patients in each phenotype were enrolled in the study. Majorities of patients were male (118, 73.75%) and mean age was 62.56±10.71 years. Highest CAT score for cough and phlegm were observed in AE-CB phenotype ((2.60±0.96 and 2.93±0.94, respectively). Highest CAT score for chest tightness and breathlessness were observed in AE Non CB phenotype (1.88±1.18 and 3.03±0.95, respectively). AE non CB phenotype shows higher physical activity limitation (2.55±0.98) and sleep disturbance (1.85±1.36) while AE-CB phenotype shows poor confidence in leaving home (1.98±1.45) and low energy (1.29±0.20) while performing the routine work. Highest SGRQ-C score were observed in AE-CB (44.53±13.94) and AE Non CB (46.77±9.45), respectively. Conclusion: The AE non CB and AE-CB phenotypes were found to have the most significant impact on HR-QoL among COPD patients. This suggests that individuals with the AE-CB phenotype notably require a tailored treatment approach that specifically addresses both the frequent exacerbations and the chronic bronchitis component to improve their overall QoL.
