Frailty: A global measure of the multisystem impact of COPD

This cross-sectional study examined whether patients with COPD (n=520) were frailer than non-matched control subjects without respiratory disease (n=150). A Frailty Index was derived using the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment. Lung function testing was undertaken in all participants to establish values for FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio, as measured a Vitalograph Alpha spirometer.