Obesity Asthma - More Pounds Equals Worse Asthma?

Posted on January 11th, 2010.

Study confirms those who are ‘BMI challenged’ (BMI=30) are more likely to have persistent to severe asthma than those considered normal BMI. The study consisted of three groups: obese, overweight and non-overweight. Obese participants were more probable for days missing work, more ER visits, use of rescue inhalers and inhaled steroids, and more persistant symptoms of asthma than non-overweight participants.

No one knows yet exactly how obesity and asthma are connected, however, the hormone leptin is suspect. Leptin, which is produced by fat cells and plays a role in body weight regulation also plays a role in airway inflammation in asthma. Obesity asthma may impact the lungs in other ways as well.

A recent review of studies, which was published in the ATS’s own American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, suggested that asthma incidence could be reduced by interventions targeting overweight and obesity. Led by Dr. Fernando Holguin, Dr. Taylor and colleagues are now studying whether patients who undergo bariatic, or weight-loss, surgery, experience an improvement in airway function compared with obese patients who don’t have the surgery. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070522133508.htm

Some of this is very good news indeed. It has long been know there is a relationship with obesity asthma. Weight loss improves airway function is also well known. Whether weight loss surgery is the best option for decreasing the likelyhood and occurrence of obesity asthma, only you can decide.

-admin, Thinexa natural weight loss supplement