Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) encompasses a heterogeneous group of over 200 diffuse parenchymal lung disorders, primarily characterized by pulmonary interstitial involvement, frequently affected by inflammation and fibrosis. Signs and symptoms vary depending on the underlying ILD condition but generally include dyspnea, fatigue, persistent cough, bibasilar crackles, digital clubbing, and psychological symptoms. These manifestations contribute to a decline in quality of life, reduced functional capacity, and low tolerance to physical exercise.

This study aimed to investigate the association between functional disability, health status, quality of life, physical performance, muscle strength, and physical activity level in people with ILD.

This is a preliminary cross-sectional, multicenter study, part of a larger project, conducted with people diagnosed with ILD. In addition to clinical history and spirometry for pulmonary function assessment, specific instruments were applied, including the 12-item short version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0), which assesses the impact on daily activities and social participation; the King’s Brief Interstitial Lung Disease Questionnaire (K-BILD), which evaluates the quality of life and health status; the Participation Scale, measuring self-perceived social participation and daily activities; the Human Activity Profile (HAP), classifying physical activity level; the Handgrip Strength Test (HST), assessing peripheral muscle strength using a Jamar dynamometer; and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), which measures functional exercise capacity and cardiorespiratory endurance.

The sample comprised 13 participants, with a mean age of 55.82 years (± 13.84 years), ranging from 33 to 81 years. The majority were male (7 participants, 53.8%), and five people (38.5%) were classified as overweight. Regarding educational background, 7 participants (53.8%) had completed high school, and in terms of self-reported ethnicity, 7 (53.8%) identified as mixed-race. Additionally, 4 participants (30.8%) had a prior diagnosis of post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis. The mean WHODAS 2.0 score was 32.39 (±19.14), ranging from 15 to 67 points. Correlation analysis revealed an association only between the WHODAS 2.0 short version and K-BILD (ICC = -0.56; p = 0.05).

Preliminary results indicate that a more significant functional disability in people with ILD is associated with poorer health status, as assessed by the K-BILD. The lack of significant associations with other variables may be attributed to the small sample size of this preliminary study. However, the findings suggest relevant trends that warrant further exploration in future analyses.

These findings suggest that physiotherapeutic assessments and interventions for people with ILD should consider not only pulmonary aspects but also functional and social dimensions. An integrated approach may be essential to improving the quality of life and social participation in this population.