DASI Calculator (Duke Activity Status Index)

Answer 12 yes/no activity questions to calculate your DASI (Duke Activity Status Index) score. Enter whether you can perform each activity — from basic self-care to strenuous sports — and get your DASI score, estimated peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ peak), and metabolic equivalents (METs) to assess functional cardiovascular capacity.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions.

1. Take care of self (e.g. eating, dressing, bathing, using the toilet)? *

2. Walk indoors (such as around your house)? *

3. Walk 1–2 blocks on level ground? *

4. Climb a flight of stairs or walk up a hill? *

5. Run a short distance? *

6. Do light work around the house (e.g. dusting, washing dishes)? *

7. Do moderate work around the house (e.g. vacuuming, sweeping, carrying groceries)? *

8. Do heavy work around the house (e.g. scrubbing floors, moving heavy furniture)? *

9. Do yard work (e.g. raking leaves, weeding, pushing a power mower)? *

10. Have sexual relations? *

11. Participate in moderate recreational activities (e.g. golf, bowling, dancing, doubles tennis)? *

12. Participate in strenuous sports (e.g. swimming, singles tennis, football, basketball)? *

Results

DASI Score

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VO₂ Peak (mL/kg/min)

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METs (Metabolic Equivalents)

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Functional Capacity

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI)?

The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a 12-item self-administered questionnaire developed by Hlatky and colleagues in 1989. It estimates a patient's functional capacity, peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ max), and metabolic equivalents (METs). It is widely used to assess patients with cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and myocardial infarction.

How is the DASI score calculated?

The DASI score is calculated by summing the weighted point values for each activity the patient can perform. Each of the 12 questions has a specific weight (ranging from 1.75 to 8 points), and only activities answered 'Yes' contribute to the total. The maximum possible score is 58.2.

What do DASI score ranges mean?

Higher DASI scores indicate better functional capacity. A score near 0 suggests very limited function, while a score approaching 58.2 indicates excellent functional status. Scores are used clinically alongside VO₂ peak and METs to classify a patient's cardiovascular fitness and guide treatment decisions.

How is VO₂ peak calculated from the DASI score?

VO₂ peak is estimated using the formula: VO₂ peak (mL/kg/min) = 0.43 × DASI + 9.6. This formula was validated against directly measured peak oxygen uptake and shows a strong Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.80 with the measured values.

What are METs and how are they derived from DASI?

METs (metabolic equivalents) represent the ratio of a person's working metabolic rate to their resting rate. From DASI, METs are calculated as: METs = VO₂ peak / 3.5. A MET value of 1 equals resting oxygen consumption; higher values indicate greater exercise capacity.

Who should use the DASI calculator?

The DASI is primarily used by clinicians to evaluate patients with known or suspected cardiovascular disease, particularly for preoperative risk assessment. It is also useful for monitoring functional recovery after cardiac events or rehabilitation. It is a patient-reported measure, so it can be self-completed and reviewed by a healthcare provider.

Can the DASI calculator replace a stress test or clinical evaluation?

No. The DASI calculator provides an estimate of functional capacity based on self-reported activity levels and should not replace formal stress testing, echocardiography, or clinical evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. It is a screening and assessment tool intended to supplement, not substitute, professional medical judgment.

What are the clinical uses of the Duke Activity Status Index?

Clinicians use the DASI to measure functional capacity, assess aspects of quality of life, estimate peak oxygen uptake, evaluate the effects of medical treatments or cardiac rehabilitation, and perform preoperative risk stratification. It is particularly valuable because it requires no equipment and can be completed quickly by the patient.