Relationship of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate with Waist Circumference, Hip Circumference, and Waist-to-Hip Ratio in Young Adults

Abstract

Abstract Introduction It has been observed that respiratory problems and the consequent pulmonary dysfunction are associated with an increase in waist circumference (WC), a measure of obesity. Both comorbidities result in changes in the overall health, quality of life, and life span. The literature shows that body fat distribution can affect pulmonary function. Pulmonary function test (PFT) is a basic and essential tool for the diagnosis and assessment of pulmonary dysfunction, lung diseases, and treatment effects. However, the facilities to measure PFT are not readily available for individual use. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is a simple and important biomarker that can measure the pulmonary function and can help monitor lung function to initiate early preventive measure. PEFR can be measured by a portable device, which can be carried anytime anywhere. Using this portable instrument, this study was undertaken to investigate whether there is any relationship of PEFR with the biomarkers of obesity, such as WC, hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) in young adults. Materials and Methods A total of 84 participants of either sex (38 males and 46 females) aged 20 to 26 years were recruited from a college of South Delhi. Demographic and anthropometric data regarding WC, HC, and WHR were recorded. For PEFR, three consecutive measurements were taken at about 2-minute intervals, and the maximum of the three values was taken into account. Results Though not statistically significant, but a tendency of negative correlation was observed between PEFR and WC (r = –0.43) and between PEFR and WHR (r = –0.48) in males. However, no significant correlation of PEFR with any of the obesity markers was found in females. No correlation was observed between PEFR and HC in the participants of either sex. Conclusion PEFR may be adversely affected with increase in WC and WHR, as seen in males. However, no association was observed between PEFR and HC in participants of either sex.