Abstract

PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE IN OBESE AND NON OBESE INDIVIDUALS IN KANCHIPURAM DISTRICT

Lalithamma A.*, Somasundharam M., Vadivel S., Sumitra S.

ABSTRACT

Background: Obesity is a chronic disease that can affect every organ system in the boby. It can alter the respiratory function and may impair the health of an individual. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is a good indicator of bronchial hyper responsiveness and good parameter for lung functions in obese as well as non-obese subjects. Aim: To assess peak expiratory flow rate in obese and non-obese subjects in kanchipuram district. Methods: 100 non-teaching staff were recruited in this study .They were in the age group of 20-60 years and were assessed for PEFR in the department of Physiology in Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences. The parameters studied were age, weight, height, body mass index and Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR).Based on the BMI they were assigned to study group and control group. PEFR were recorded by using wright’s peak flow meter. The data obtained were analysed with SPSS software. Results: This study showed significantly lower Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) among the obese subjects when compared to non-obese subjects. Conclusion: Regular pulmonary functions monitoring may be an important tool to assess the adverse effects of obesity.

Keywords: Obesity, Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Body mass index.