A comparative study of FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio before and after cycling in young obese and non-obese women

Abstract

Introduction and Aim:  Obesity is becoming a worldwide problem and women were more likely to be obese than men in all regions of world. Obesity affects multiple systems of the body including respiratory system. This study aimed at comparing the respiratory functions before and after cycling in obese and non obese young women.   Materials and Methods: One hundred healthy female in the age groups of 18-25 years were considered. Fifty subjects were obese [BMI>25 kg/m2] and 50 were age matched non obese [BMI=18 to 22.9 kg/m2]. Anthropometric measurements weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumference were measured. BMI and waist hip ratio were calculated. Spirometric parameters like FVC (Functional Vital Capacity), FEV1 (Forced expiratory volume 1 second), FEV1/FVC ratio were assessed before cycling. Cycling (a graded submaximal exercise) was performed using YMCA cycling protocol. Spirometric parameters were assessed within 5 minutes from termination of cycling. Data collected were statistically analyzed using paired ‘t’ test.   Results: Before cycling and after cycling values of FVC, FEV1/FVC in obese young women were lower (p<0.0001) compared to non obese young women but their values were within normal range of % prediction. On comparing the FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC values from before to after cycling there was statistically significant reduction in both the groups. On comparison of reduction in spirometric values from before to after cycling, among obese and non obese young women, it was not statistically significant.   Conclusion: Both in before and after cycling the obese young women had reduced pulmonary function test compared to non obese young women but values within the normal percentage of prediction.