Obesity and spirometric ventilatory status correlation in adult male population of Amritsar

Abstract

Aims & Objective: To study the effects of obesity on the lung functions in adult male population of Amritsar Materials and methods: Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) of normal, healthy, non-obese males and healthy but obese males of Amritsar were determined and were compared and correlated. Criteria for obesity in our study taken were according to WHO criteria of BMI. The PFTs were carried out with a computerized spirometer “Med-Spiror”. The data was collected; compiled, statistically analysed and valid conclusions were drawn. Higher lung volumes and flow rates were achieved. Results: There was statistically highly significant decline in FVC in obese when compared with nonobese groups. The values of FEV1 in both groups when were compared showed significant changes. The ratio of FEV1/FVC, the values of PEFR and FEF25- 75% showed insignificant changes but MVV when were compared showed highly significant changes. Conclusion: There is decline of various respiratory functions in obesity. The cause of decline of various respiratory functions in obesity may be due to decrease in distensibility of chest wall or limited expansion of thoracic cavity and is the cause for reduced ventilatory volumes and total lung capacity.