The Importance of Gender Factor in Evaluation of Spirometric and Nutritional Parameters in Patients with Stable COPD

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the relationship between sex factor, spirometric and nutritional parameters in patients with stable COPD. Material and methods: Patients with stable COPD who had no additional problem that affects spirometric and nutritional results, were included in the study. By the application of SGRQ questionnarie nutritional parameters, spirometric and demographic findings of cases were recorded and evaluated. Results: Totally 100 patients with stable COPD (81 males, 19 females and mean age 65.1 +/- 4.3 years) were evaluated prospectively. % FEV1 (p=0.003), % FEF25-75 (p=0.011), % PEF (p=0.003) values and smoking package-years (p=0.009) were found significantly higher in males. Body Mass Index values were significantly higher (p=0.018) in females (30.7 +/- 6.6) than males (27.4 +/- 4.9). In males higher triceps skin thickness values (p<0.001) and lower SGRQ scores (p=0.036) were found. Conclusion: Smoking is the most important agent in devoloping of COPD. Although smoking duration was shorter in females spirometric findings were worse. In spite of this finding, because of better nutritional parameters and lower SGRQ scores, it is thought that there is insensitivity in females to systemic response.