Analysis of the effects of physical activity on quality of life in individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic airflow obstruction associated with an inflammatory process in the airways. Resulting from two pathologies, chronic bronchitis and pulmonary emphysema, both with different pathophysiology. Therefore, the present study aims to demonstrate, through a literature review, the effects of physical activity on the quality of life in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This is an integrative and exploratory literature review with a quantitative approach, which aims to provide a synthesis of evidence related to the topic, through search, analysis and integration of selected information. Articles published and indexed in the PUBMED database were used, using the descriptors Physical activity - Activities Physical and COPD - COPD, being considered scientific type studies, published in the last 5 years (2018- 2023), in the following languages: Portuguese and English language, available in full and appropriate to the topic of interest and based on the topic covered. After selecting the studies in the database, they were organized in a table, aiming to extract more detailed information relevant to the present study. Seven articles were selected for final analysis, thus being part of the scope of the review, all studies showed beneficial effects of different physical exercise programs on the health of people with COPD. These include reducing symptoms and the risk of comorbidity and exacerbation, improving health-related quality of life, and increasing functional capacity and muscle strength. Therefore, it is concluded that the interventions combine the actions of the respiratory system and the musculoskeletal system, where the objectives will be to help the patient reintegrate into ADLs with greater safety and quality, from pulmonary rehabilitation programs to modalities such as tai chi and qigong.