Are the lifestyle and social background of male patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease related to health-related quality of life?

Abstract

We examined life style and social background factors related to health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in male patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The subjects were 53 patients with stable COPD. The measurement items were St Georgeʼs Respiratory Questionnaire, life style, social background, age, body mass index,modified medical research council, respiratory function, six-minute walk distance, and the Nagasaki University Respiratory ADL questionnaire. Patients were classified into two groups: high QOL and low QOL. We found that exercise habits, home oxygen therapy, environment around home were factors related to HRQOL.