Сlinical efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation program in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and metabolic syndrome

Comorbidity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and metabolic syndrome (MS) creates the need of comprehensive approach to treatment, and prevention and rehabilitation of the patients. The aim . The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical efficacy of a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program in patients with COPD and MS. This program was based on patient education, smoking cessation, physicaltraining, and nutritional correction in addition to the standard treatment of COPD. Methods. The study involved 70 patients (27 women (38.6%) and 43 men (61.4%) with stable moderate COPD and MS aged 18 to 60 years (mean age, 48.31±0.64 years). The patients were randomly divided into two groups: 35 patients were involved in a pulmonary rehabilitation program in addition to the standard therapy of COPD; other 35 patients were treated with the standard therapy. Clinical and laboratory parameters were assessed at baseline and in 12 months. Results . To the end of the study the groups differed significant in number of COPD exacerbations, emergency calls, hospitalizations, clinical symptoms of COPD and impact of the disease on physical activity and health status of the patients, quality of life (QOL), and physical tolerance. Conclusions: Management of patients with comorbid COPD and MS should include specific educational programs and physical training in order to improve treatment efficacy and quality of life of the patients.