engleski

Relationship Between Obesity and Persistent Asthma

Both obesity and asthma are common chronic diseases. The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased over the last two decades. Asthma in adults has experienced similar trends. Adult obesity is a worldwide problem accompanied by increased cost, now recognized as one of the most pervasive public health problem. In western population the prevalence of obesity is around 25 to 55 percent, while prevalence of asthma over the last 3 decades has increased and now affects an estimated 6 to 8% of the general population. In gaining weight, individuals increase risk for multiple comorbid conditions. According to recent literature, adult-onset asthma may be another risk associated with obesity. Bias into these results was introduced due to psychosocial and cultural influences upon specific health care as well as due to criteria for asthma diagnosis. The aim of our study was to calculate body mass index (BMI) in the group of asthma patients from our allergy outpatient clinic database and correlate it with control group of healthy individuals. 106 patients with asthma diagnosed upon symptom score, medication score, morning and evening peak expiratory flow and functional parameters were selected (37 males, 69 females, mean age 45, 25 yrs). 50% of asthmatics were taking short course oral prednisolone 2-4 times a year. Others were taking inhaled steroids. Control group were healthy individuals presenting for regular systemic check up (n=51 ; 33 females, 18 males, mean age 43, 9 yrs). BMI was classified according to WHO in I, II or III grade. The results have shown that 55, 66% of patients were obese. In first grade of obesity there were 34 patients, in second 25 and only one patient was in third grade. BMI for the control group showed that 58, 9% of individuals were obese, 21 in first grade, 8 in second. There were no subjects in the third grade of obesity. One person was underweight. According to this results there were no differences in BMI between asthmatics and control group. Patient on systemic steroids did not differ from those taking local steroid therapy.

obesity; asthma

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