Comparison of ccq, cat score & bode index in assessing severity and exacerbations of copd - a comprehensive study

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While spirometry remains the cornerstone for diagnosis, it does not adequately capture symptom burden or predict quality of life. Hence, tools like the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ), COPD Assessment Test (CAT), and BODE Index have been developed to offer a more comprehensive assessment of disease severity and progression. This study aimed to compare these tools in evaluating severity and exacerbations among COPD patients.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 COPD patients attending PES Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Kuppam. Participants were assessed using CAT, CCQ, and BODE Index. Spirometry was used to determine FEV₁ levels. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Pearson correlation and Chi-square tests were applied to analyze associations between scoring tools and FEV₁ values.

Results: Most participants were male (75%) and aged above 60 years. Smoking (70%) and biomass fuel exposure (36.7%) were common risk factors. The most frequent FEV₁ category was mild obstruction (43.3%). Strong positive correlations were found between CCQ and CAT (r = 0.788), CCQ and BODE Index (r = 0.759), and CAT and BODE Index (r = 0.766), all statistically significant (p < 0.01). Significant associations were observed between all three scoring tools and spirometric severity.

Conclusion: CCQ, CAT, and BODE Index are strongly correlated and effective in assessing COPD severity. These tools offer practical alternatives to spirometry in evaluating symptom burden and predicting functional status. Their integration into clinical practice can enhance comprehensive management of COPD patients.