Bronchiectasis not related to cystic fibrosis (non-CF bronchiectasis) is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by permanent dilatation of the airways arising from bronchial inflammation and infection. Predominant symptoms include daily productive cough, dyspnoea and generalised fatigue. This profile is associated with diminished health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and reduced exercise tolerance.
Available medical treatments for bronchiectasis include antibiotic and inhalation therapy. To date, there is no evidence that these treatments can reduce the exacerbation rate or modify the rate of disease progression. While international guidelines for pulmonary rehabilitation recommend the inclusion of patients with bronchiectasis, there is a deficiency in evidence supporting exercise training in this population. It is proposed that a standard exercise training program conducted according to Australian guidelines for pulmonary rehabilitation will improve both exercise capacity, quality of life and reduce the number of acute infections in both the short and long term in people with bronchiectasis.
