A Cross-Sectional Study of Pulmonary Impairment Pattern in Adults With Central Obesity

Abstract

 Background: Obesity impacts the respiratory system through various mechanisms, with numerous studies investigating the relationship between BMI and respiratory function. However, only a limited number of studies have utilized waist circumference as an indicator of adiposity. Furthermore, the ndings regarding whether obesity leads to restrictive or obstructive alterations in lung function remain uncertain. Objectives: To determine the predominant pattern of pulmonary impairment associated with central obesity. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study enrolled ninety non-smoking adults aged 20-40 years. The study group consisted of forty-ve individuals with waist circumference ≥ 90cm in males and ≥ 80cm in females, while the control group comprised forty-ve gender and age matched subjects with waist circumference < 90cm in males and < 80cm in females. Dynamic lung function parameters, including FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, PEFR, and FEF25-75, were assessed using the spiro module of the MEC PFT system in both groups. Statistical analysis employed the Independent Student's t-test. Results: In centrally obese adults, there were signicant reductions observed in FEV1 (P = 0.04) and FVC (P = 0.01). However, there were no signicant differences noted in the FEV1/FVC ratio, PEFR, and FEF25-75 between the two groups. Conclusion: Our ndings indicate a restrictive pattern of pulmonary impairment in centrally obese adults. This study aims to emphasize the impact of increasing waist circumference on pulmonary function, thereby advocating for appropriate intervention measures to reduce obesity and its associated health risks.