Factors associated with six-minute walk distance among Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims

Abstract

The Hajj pilgrimage is a physically demanding religious rite that is associated with the health status of pilgrims. Several factors are associated with functional limitations. We aimed to determine the relationship between clinical data and six-minute walk test (6-MWT) findings. The 6-MWT is a measure of functional capacity that is routinely applied to Indonesian pilgrim candidates before they embark on the Hajj. This cross-sectional study analysed Indonesian Hajj pilgrimage data obtained from 2,933 participants before their departure for the Hajj in 2022. The data included participants’ characteristics, laboratory results, and six-minute walk findings. The resulting aggregates were analysed using Pearson correlations. Serum creatinine significantly correlated with 6-MWT findings (r = 0.003; p <0.05). Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) values and platelet counts were significantly associated with 6-MWT results (r = 0.101 and 0.038, respectively; p <0.05). Serum creatinine, LDL-C, and platelet values were associated with increased 6-MWT, indicating a correlation with functional capacity among Hajj pilgrims.