Variation in body mass index in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with systemic inflammation. Weight loss seen in patients with COPD is a consequence of this inflammation. We hypothesized that higher grades of COPD are associated with greater degree of weight loss. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the body mass index (BMI) of 34 patients with COPD proven by handheld spirometer. The difference in BMI among various grades of COPD was compared. Results: BMI was found to be inversely related to the grades of COPD in our study (P = 0.001). No significant difference was seen among the patients with regards to age and duration of symptoms before presentation. Conclusion: Advanced COPD is associated with greater degree of weight loss.