COPD
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Multicenter Study
Gender differences of airway dimensions in anatomically matched sites on CT in smokers.
There are limited data on, and controversies regarding gender differences in the airway dimensions of smokers. Multi-detector CT (MDCT) images were analyzed to examine whether gender could explain differences in airway dimensions of anatomically matched airways in smokers. ⋯ Women smokers have higher WA%, but lower luminal area, internal diameter and airway thickness in anatomically matched airways as measured by CT scan than do male smokers. This difference may explain, in part, gender differences in the prevalence of COPD and airflow limitation.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Obesity and COPD: associated symptoms, health-related quality of life, and medication use.
There is little data about the combined effects of COPD and obesity. We compared dyspnea, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), exacerbations, and inhaled medication use among patients who are overweight and obese to those of normal weight with COPD. ⋯ Despite having less severe lung disease, obese patients reported increased dyspnea and poorer HRQoL than normal weight patients. The greater number of inhaled medications prescribed for obese patients may represent overuse. Obese patients with COPD likely need alternative strategies for symptom control in addition to those currently recommended.
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The 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) has been useful in the evaluation of men with COPD. Little is known about 6MWD in women with the disease. ⋯ In women with COPD, the 6MWD decreases with age and GOLD stages. A 350 m distance is a valid threshold to differentiate survival. Further studies in different settings should confirm our findings.