Influence of Relative and Central adiposity on Lung Functions of Young Adult Medical Students

Abstract

Abstract:

Objective:  To estimate the effect of relative and central adiposity on pulmonary functions in medical students at Bahria University and to compare the predictability of two anthropometric measures.

Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 192 young healthy medical students. Their calculated body mass index and measured waist circumference was compared with pulmonary functions as determined by Forced expiratory volume in 1second (FEV1) and Forced vital capacity (FVC) with the help of a digital spirometer.

Results: Comparison of lung function tests with anthropometric measurements revealed that students with BMI< 23 had better FEV1 and FVC (p value 0.025 and 0.026) as compared to overweight and underweight individuals. Central adiposity measurement by waist circumference notified a negative association of pulmonary functions with waist circumference (p value 0.01).

 Conclusion: Normal range of BMI and WC were found to be associated with a significantly higher FVC and FEV1, while both overweight and underweight subjects have lower levels of lung function test.

 Key Words:  BMI, WC, FEV1, FVC