Correlation between obesity and cardiopulmonary capacity in school going children of Navsari city

Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity is a burgeoning global public health concern, posing significant risks to cardiovascular and respiratory health. This study aimed to explore the correlation between obesity and cardiopulmonary capacity among school-going children aged 8 to 16 years in Navsari, India. Methods: A correlational study was conducted, involving a convenient sample of 55 school children. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and participants underwent the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to evaluate cardiopulmonary capacity. Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) was estimated utilizing a prediction equation based on 6MWT distance and BMI. Results: Analysis revealed a noteworthy negative correlation between BMI and VO2max (r = -0.874, p< 0.001), indicating that heightened obesity levels corresponded to diminished cardiorespiratory fitness. The 6MWT emerged as a dependable and valid measure for assessing aerobic capacity in obese youth. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study on the correlation between obesity and cardiopulmonary capacity in school-going children of age 8 to 16 years of Navsari city, India; reinforced strong negative correlation between BMI and maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), indicating that higher levels of obesity were associated with reduced cardiopulmonary capacity.