Objective To evaluate the application value of BODE and the relationship between BODE index and life quality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rural China. Methods A total of 26 rural patients with stable COPD were enrolled. BODE index and it's four components including body mass index ( BMI ), airflow obstruction ( FEV1 % ), dyspnea ( MMRC ) and exercise capacity ( 6MWD ) were calculated. St. Georgeps Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were used to evaluate health-related quality of life of these patients. Results The BODE index was significantly correlated with the SGRQ total score , symptom ,activity and impact score ( r = 0. 674,0. 430,0. 460,0. 495 respectively, Ps ＜ 0. 05 ). GOLD grade was only significantly correlated with the SGRQ total score and active score( r =0. 447,0. 418 ,Ps ＜0. 05 ). Stepwise liner multiple regression analysis showed that activity score of SGRRQ was an influence factor of BODE index. 6MWD of BODE index( t = - 2. 397, P = 0. 025 ) and MMRC ( t = 2. 257, P = 0. 034 ) were independently correlated with activity scores of SGRQ . Conclusion BODE index and life quality had significant relationship. 6MWD and MMRC of BODE index were the most powerful influence factors of life quality in rural COPD patients.