Body mass index and maximum mid expiratory flow rate in young Adults

Abstract

Excessive body weight may cause impaired pulmonary function and can lead to a restrictive or occasionally an obstructive pulmonary disorder. The obese subject presents damage to the respiratory mechanics causing adverse effects on the pulmonary function such as increase of the respiratory work and reduction of pulmonary volumes.(10) Asian Indians have higherpercentage body fat, abdominal adiposity at lower or similarBMI levels as compared to white Caucasian. It has been recommended that different BMI cutoff points be used to determine overweight and obesity in certain racial groups. The current Consensus Statement for Revised BMI Cut-offs for Asian Indians: Normal BMI: 18.0 – 22.9 kg/m2; Overweight: 23.0 – 24.9 kg/m2; Obesity: >25 kg/m2.(4) All the participants were divide into three group of 30 each- normal weight, overweight and obese according to BMI Cut-offs for Asian Indians. FEF25-75 (maximum mid expiratory flow rate) was recorded by computerized spirometer. Result shows that FEF25-75 was less in obese as compared to normal weight subjects. Forced expiratory flow (FEF25-75) or the mid expiratory flow, is the flow (or speed) of air coming out of the lung during the middle portion of a Forced vital capacity (FVC) and indicates the function of the small airways. (17)This shows that with increased in BMI will affect the flow of air in small airways.