NYHA Classification and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test Variables in Patients with Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is considered a prevalent disease, limiting survival and constituting one of the leading causes of hospitalization or death in several countries, including Brazil. Therefore, clinical classification in patients with HF can be considered important as an initial reference, as it informs the functional condition of these patients. Classically, the subjective classification of the New York Heart Association (NYHA) and the objective classification of Weber are the most used. The NYHA functional classification and oxygen consumption at peak exertion were decisive in determining the functional condition of patients with Chagas disease. However, certain patients with minor symptoms are at high risk of hospitalization or death.

In patients with HF, the 6-minute walk test is also considered in assessing functional and prognostic capacity. This test has a predictive value for mortality in patients with HF functional class II and III (NYHA).

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