A recent study shows that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) can significantly reduce acute exacerbations and the need for additional inhaled corticosteroids in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients using dual ultra-long-acting bronchodilators. The study aimed to evaluate the added benefits of regular physical activity for patients already on a combination of long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) and long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA).
Researchers analysed data from 6,042 COPD patients over age 40 who initiated a LABA/LAMA combination between 2014 and 2018. Patients were grouped based on whether they engaged in MVPA, defined as vigorous exercise for more than 20 minutes at least three days per week or moderate exercise for over 30 minutes at least five days per week. Among the participants, 1,526 initiated MVPA, while 4,516 did not. The median follow-up period was three years.
Results showed that patients who engaged in MVPA had a lower risk of severe exacerbations and reduced need for future corticosteroid use compared to those who did not exercise. Specifically, the hazard ratio (HR) for future corticosteroid use was 0.83, and for severe exacerbations, it was 0.81 in the MVPA group. Benefits were consistent across subgroups, including age, sex, body mass index, and smoking status.
The findings suggest that incorporating MVPA into COPD management can offer significant benefits, even for those already using advanced inhaler therapy. Encouraging regular physical activity could be a valuable approach to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life for COPD patients.
Reference
Kim T et al. Association of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity with reduction of acute exacerbation in COPD patients using a dual ultra-long-acting bronchodilators. Sci Rep. 2024;DOI:10.1038/s41598-024-75702-9.
