SIX-MINUTE WALK TEST (6MWT): A CONTEMPORARY TOOL FOR ASSESSING COPD SEVERITY IN A CLINICAL SETTING

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a prevalent respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airow limitation. The Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a practical, non-invasive test used to assess functional capacity and predict disease severity. This study evaluates the utility of the 6MWT in assessing COPD severity among patients at Sree Balaji Medical College, Chennai, correlating it with spirometric indices and COPD Assessment Test (CAT) scores. The results indicate a signicant relationship between 6MWT distance and COPD severity, supporting its use as a complementary tool in COPD management