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BODE Index for COPD

The BODE index combines body mass index, airflow obstruction (FEV₁ % predicted), dyspnea severity (mMRC scale), and 6-minute walk distance to stratify mortality risk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

0: breathless with exertion only • 4: breathless dressing/at rest

Results

BMI score

0

>21 → 0 points; ≤21 → 1 point

Airflow obstruction score

1

FEV₁ % predicted

Dyspnea score

1

mMRC dyspnea grade

Exercise score

1

6MWD (meters)

Total BODE index

3

Average 18% mortality at 4 years

Prognostic interpretation:

  • Score 0 – 2: Average 10% mortality at 4 years
  • Score 3 – 4: Average 18% mortality at 4 years
  • Score 5 – 6: Average 32% mortality at 4 years
  • Score 7 – 10: Average 80% mortality at 4 years

How to Use This Calculator

Use spirometry to confirm airflow limitation (FEV₁/FVC < 0.70 post-bronchodilator) before applying BODE index. Obtain BMI, FEV₁ % predicted, modified MRC dyspnea grade, and 6-minute walk distance from patient records or testing. Use total score to discuss prognosis, guide therapy intensification, pulmonary rehab referral, or transplant evaluation.

Formula

Total BODE index = BMI score (0–1) + Airflow obstruction score (0–3) + Dyspnea score (0–3) + Exercise score (0–3).

Frequently Asked Questions

Convert to meters (1 foot ≈ 0.3048 m). INHALING 6-minute walk tests typically report distance in meters. Use actual post-bronchodilator percent predicted. Values above 100 still receive 0 points. 0: dyspnea only with strenuous exercise • 1: short of breath hurrying or slight hill • 2: walks slower/pauses on level • 3: stops after 100 m or few minutes • 4: too breathless to leave house or dressing. No. BODE complements GOLD staging by incorporating multidimensional assessment to better predict outcomes. After pulmonary rehab, therapy changes, or at periodic follow-up (e.g., annually) to monitor progression.