Comparison of Pulmonary Functions, Physical Activity Level and Quality of Life in Obese and Pre-Obese Individuals

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONThe prevalence of obesity continues to increase worldwide. Obesity is defined as abnormal and excessive accumulation of fat molecules within adipose tissues, which could cause adverse health effects (1, 2). Obesity is a health problem characterized by restrictive pulmonary functions. Studies have proven that an increased body mass index (BMI) decreases the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV 1 ) in pulmonary function tests (3), indicating that obesity is also correlated to an impaired pulmonary function (4). Pulmonary functions disturbed by obesity, particularly the decrease of FEV 1 , increase the mortality and morbidity rates (4-6).Pre-obese and obese individuals are more likely to show pulmonary symptoms compared to nonobese individuals (3). The impairment of pulmonary functions in obese individuals increases their exercise intolerance (1). Because of limited exercise, the physical activity levels decline, leading to a more inactive lifestyle of obese individuals. The decreasing anaerobic threshold increases lactic acid accumulation. Increased lactic acid accumulation in obese individuals leads to increased fatigue and deterioration of the pulmonary system (7).Banerjee et al. (8) AbstractObjective: There are studies regarding pulmonary functions of obese individuals in literature; however, there is insufficient data regarding pre-obese individuals. This study aimed to compare the pulmonary functions, physical activity levels, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of obese and pre-obese individuals. Methods:The characteristics of 62 subjects participating in the study were recorded All subjects were evaluated using pulmonary function tests (PFT), short form-36 health survey (SF-36), obesity and weight loss quality of life measure (OWLQOL), international physical activity questionnaires (IPAQ), and modified medical research council (mMRC) scale. Results:The severity of perceived dyspnea in obese subjects was significantly higher than that in pre-obese subjects. The PFT parameters (FVC, FEV 1 , PEF, , FEF 25-75 %, MVV, and MVV%) were significantly lower in obese subjects. Although individuals in both groups were inactive, the inactivity levels in obese subjects were significantly higher. HRQOL scores were significantly lower in obese individuals. The body mass index (BMI) was significantly correlated with dyspnea severity, SF-36 subscores, OWLQOL scores, and PFT parameters. Conclusion:While an increasing BMI has an adverse effect on the pulmonary functions of pre-obese individuals, increased BMI coupled with reduced pulmonary functions causes a decrease in the physical activity levels and reduces HRQOL of obese individuals.