Background: Obesity is a global health hazard and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. Studies have shown that obesity, in particular, abdominal obesity is negatively associated to pulmonary functions.
Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To compare the pulmonary function tests in non-obese, overweight, and obese individuals and (2) to find out the correlation of body mass index (BMI) with severity of pulmonary dysfunctions among obese individuals.
Materials and Methods: The study was done in 90 adult males with the age group of 1845 years having moderate sedentary lifestyle. All the anthropometric measurements are performed including BMI. Pulmonary functions tests were performed using SPIROLAB II (MIR) software. Statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Instat software and appropriate statistical test was applied.
Results: Forced vital capacity (FVC%), peak expiratory flow rate, and maximal voluntary ventilation values were negatively correlated with BMI values in obese individuals and forced expiratory volume in one second/FVC% was positively correlated with BMI values suggestive of restrictive pattern of lung disease.
Conclusion: The study shown that increased BMI and increased abdominal fat are associated with pulmonary dysfunction. However, large sample and subjects with all ages and both sexes are required to strengthen the results.
Key words: Body Mass Index; Pulmonary Function Tests; Obesity
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