Effect of waist circumference and body mass index on respiratory function

Abstract

Background/Aim: The increase in waist circumference and obesity are among the important human health problems at present. It cannot be denied that this problem, which has a negative effect on many body systems, may also cause negative effects on the respiratory system. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of waist circumference and body mass index (WC and BMI, respectively) on spirometric parameters, such as the forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity (FEV1 and FVC, respectively). Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, patients who applied to the chest diseases outpatient clinic of our hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2022 and had existing abdominal computed tomography (CT) and pulmonary function test results recorded in the hospital system were included. The WC of the patients was measured using the abdominal CT results. The BMI of the patients was measured using their height and weight values. The correlation between the WC, BMI, and spirometric parameters (FEV1, FVC) was examined. Results: A statistically significant correlation between the WC and BMI values of the 90 patients included in the study and their FVC and FEV1 values was found. In the relationship between all evaluated parameters, the P-value was <0.001. Based on the Spearman's correlation test, it was concluded that WC showed a highly negative correlation with both FVC and FEV1 (−0.984 and −0.870, respectively). BMI also had a high negative correlation with FVC and FEV1 (−0.905 and −0.867, respectively). Conclusion: Weight gain, which leads to an increase in WC and BMI, appears to have a negative effect on the respiratory system. To maintain good respiratory function, it is recommended that patients adopt lifestyles that help them avoid gaining weight.