Lung function parameters in overweight patients with COPD in relation to body mass index and waist circumference and impact on quality of life

Abstract

Objective We investigated the correlation of lung function parameters with increased body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) and determined the impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study at a teaching hospital among 173 individuals. We assessed anthropometric measurements, dynamic lung function, clinical history, and HRQoL using the Airway Questionnaire. Correlations of dynamic lung function parameters with BMI and WC were analyzed. Results In total, 51% were men (mean patient age 47.8 ± 10.5 years, median 48 years). The average BMI was 30.3 ± 8 kg/m2. Among 173 participants, 49% were smokers, with 16 ± 9 pack-years smoked; 80% of participants had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We observed compromised mid-expiratory flow (MEF), especially in young and overweight smokers. A moderately strong positive relationship was observed between WC and HRQoL scores, indicating a decline in HRQoL with increased WC. Conclusion In our study, HRQoL declined with increasing WC. We found a decrease in MEF among young and overweight smokers who were otherwise healthy and whose other lung function parameters were normal; this finding can be regarded as a pre-COPD marker. These individuals should be reassessed for the development of COPD. Further prospective studies are needed to verify our findings.