Evaluation of structure of obese hearts by two Dimesional echocardiogram

Abstract

Background: Obesity is rampant in India, particularly in the Southern states. Obesity cardiomyopathy is an evolving disease entity. The effect of simple obesity on cardiac structure is less explored in the Indian population. Echocardiogram is a simple, non invasive technique to assess cardiac morphology. The influence of body mass index and waist circumference on echocardiogram parameters of obese hearts is explored in this study. Method: Basic demographic information and laboratory investigation of each participant was obtained. Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist circumference, body mass index calculation) was done according to standard techniques. Participants were classified according to Asian criteria for obesity. A detailed general and systemic examination was performed. Echocardiogram was performed for all the participants. Statistical analysis was done on the collected data. Results: Data was collected from 75 study participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Body mass index (BMI) has a strong correlation with the size of both ventricles. Moreover, both left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index are directly proportional to the body mass index in individuals with increased BMI. Notably, the sizes of all chambers of the heart are directly proportional to waist circumference. Left ventricle hypertrophy, common in simple obesity, is influenced by BMI. Conclusion: Asymptomatic structural abnormalities are common in obese hearts even in the absence of comorbidities.