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Duke Activity Status Index Calculator

Use our free Duke activity status index Calculator to get personalized health results. Based on validated medical formulas and clinical guidelines.

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Formula

DASI = Sum of activity weights; VO2peak = 0.43 x DASI + 9.6

The DASI sums weighted values for 12 activities the patient can perform. Estimated VO2peak in mL/kg/min = 0.43 x DASI score + 9.6. METs = VO2peak / 3.5. A functional capacity of 4 METs or greater indicates adequate capacity for most surgical procedures.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Preoperative Assessment - Good Capacity

Problem: A 62-year-old patient scheduled for elective hip replacement reports being able to: walk indoors, walk more than 2 blocks, climb stairs without stopping, do light housework, do yard work, and play golf.

Solution: Walk indoors: 1.75\nWalk >2 blocks: 5.50\nClimb stairs without stopping: 8.00\nLight housework: 2.70\nYard work: 4.50\nModerate recreation (golf): 6.00\nTotal DASI = 28.45\nEstimated VO2 = 0.43 x 28.45 + 9.6 = 21.8 mL/kg/min\nEstimated METs = 21.8 / 3.5 = 6.2 METs

Result: DASI: 28.5 | 6.2 METs (>4 METs: adequate for surgery without further cardiac testing)

Example 2: Heart Failure Patient - Poor Capacity

Problem: A 74-year-old heart failure patient can only perform personal care, walk indoors, and do light housework. Unable to walk a full block without dyspnea.

Solution: Personal care: 2.75\nWalk indoors: 1.75\nLight housework: 2.70\nTotal DASI = 7.20\nEstimated VO2 = 0.43 x 7.20 + 9.6 = 12.7 mL/kg/min\nEstimated METs = 12.7 / 3.5 = 3.6 METs

Result: DASI: 7.2 | 3.6 METs (<4 METs: poor capacity, further cardiac evaluation warranted before surgery)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Duke Activity Status Index and what does it measure?

The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a validated 12-item self-administered questionnaire that estimates functional capacity based on a patient ability to perform common daily activities. Developed by Hlatky and colleagues at Duke University in 1989, it provides a weighted numerical score ranging from 0 (unable to perform any activities) to 58.2 (able to perform all activities). The DASI correlates well with peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) measured during cardiopulmonary exercise testing, which is the gold standard for functional capacity assessment. The index is particularly useful in preoperative risk assessment, heart failure monitoring, cardiac rehabilitation progress tracking, and general functional status evaluation in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Is my data stored or sent to a server?

No. All calculations run entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data you enter is ever transmitted to any server or stored anywhere. Your inputs remain completely private.

Is Duke Activity Status Index Calculator free to use?

Yes, completely free with no sign-up required. All calculators on NovaCalculator are free to use without registration, subscription, or payment.

How do I get the most accurate result?

Enter values as precisely as possible using the correct units for each field. Check that you have selected the right unit (e.g. kilograms vs pounds, meters vs feet) before calculating. Rounding inputs early can reduce output precision.

Can I share or bookmark my calculation?

You can bookmark the calculator page in your browser. Many calculators also display a shareable result summary you can copy. The page URL stays the same so returning to it will bring you back to the same tool.

Can I use the results for professional or academic purposes?

You may use the results for reference and educational purposes. For professional reports, academic papers, or critical decisions, we recommend verifying outputs against peer-reviewed sources or consulting a qualified expert in the relevant field.

References