Physical and psychological correlates of functioning in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

We studied the contribution of coping and illness perceptions to outcome in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In a longitudi nal study, 64 patients completed the Medical Outcomes Study Instrument and the Illness Perception Questionnaire. Data on roping and severity of illnes s (spirometry) were also collected. Regression analyses showed that first-t ime illness perceptions and coping significantly contributed to the predict ion of socialfunctioning, mental health, health perceptions, total function ing score, and prediction of visits to the outpatient clinic and prescribed medication 1 year later. These results have important implications for the medical management of patients with COPD.