Comparative Evaluation Of Functional Capacity In COPD: A Study Of The 1- Minute Sit-To-Stand Test Versus The 6-Minute Walk Test – The First Of Its Kind In India

Abstract

Background: COPD is a predominant world health concern and a major contributor to mortality rates. Evaluating physical status in COPD patients is crucial for monitoring advancement of disease and treatment efficacy. Aim: This study compared 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and 1-minute sit-to-stand test (1MSTST) in assessing physical status in patients with moderate to severe COPD. It also investigated the impact of various clinical parameters on test outcomes. Methods: 93 moderate to severe COPD patients underwent 6MWT and 1MSTST.Body composition, muscle strength, pulmonary function, quadriceps strength, and dyspnea were also assessed. Results: The mean 6MWT distance was 297.16 ± 91.04m, with the moderate COPD group achieving 341.48 ± 60.85m and the severe group 212.69 ± 78.76m. For 1MSTST, the mean repetition count was 14.26 ± 2.7, with 15.39 ± 2.00 for the moderate group and 12.09 ± 2.50 for the severe group. A dependent t-test revealed significantly higher systolic blood pressure post-6MWT (p<0.001) and a greater drop in SPO2 (p<0.001) compared to baseline. Similar significant changes were observed in 1MSTST (p<0.001). Pearson’s correlation showed a strong positive link between 1MSTST repetitions and 6MWT distance (r=0.77, p<0.001), with dyspnea strongly correlated to both tests (r=0.7, p<0.001), while SPO2 showed a moderate correlation (r=0.6, p<0.001). Conclusion: The findings suggest that 1MSTST is as effective as 6MWT in assessing the physical state of COPD patients. Additionally, 1MSTST offers a more accessible and feasible option, especially in settings where the 6MWT may not be practical.