The association between anticholinergic burden and nutritional status in elderly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A cross-sectional study

Authors : Hamza Ogun, Merve Yüzbaşıoğlu, Nuran Gökbulut, Dilek Karakuş, Pinar Soysal, Fatmanur Okyaltırık
Pages : 34-41
Doi:10.21673/anadoluklin.1623319
View : 105 | Download : 339
Publication Date : 2026-01-24
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Aim: Anticholinergic burden and polypharmacy are significant concerns in elderly Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients; potentially affecting their nutritional status and clinical outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between anticholinergic burden and nutritional status in elderly COPD patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 195 COPD patients aged ≥38 years. Anticholinergic burden was assessed using the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Scale; and nutritional status was evaluated using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). COPD severity was classified according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between anticholinergic burden and nutritional status; adjusting for potential confounders. Results: The mean age of participants was 65.8±10.2 years. Clinically significant anticholinergic burden (score ≥3) was present in 35.7% of patients; and polypharmacy was observed in 42.3%. Higher anticholinergic burden was significantly associated with lower MNA scores (p<0.001). Advanced GOLD stages (3-4) showed a stronger correlation with poor nutritional status compared to early stages. Cardiovascular comorbidities were the most prevalent (45.2%) and were associated with higher anticholinergic burden. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant association between anticholinergic burden and poor nutritional status in elderly COPD patients. Regular assessment of anticholinergic burden and nutritional status should be considered in the clinical management of elderly COPD patients; particularly those with multiple comorbidities.
Keywords : Antikolinerjik ajanlar, beslenme durumu, kronik obstrüktif pulmoner hastalık, malnütrisyon, polifarmasi, yaşlı

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