Exercise-induced bronchospasm in nonasthmatic obese and nonobese boys.

BACKGROUND

In this study it was aimed to compare the degree and frequency of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in nonasthmatic obese boys with those in nonasthmatic nonobese boys.

METHODS

METHODS

Fifty boys (24 obese and 26 control), aged 11 to 15 years, with no history of asthma or other atopic diseases, took part in the study.

METHODS

Anthropometric measurements and spirometry were performed at rest and spirometry was repeated at 5 and 15 minutes after an eight-minute submaximal exercise on cycle ergometer.

RESULTS

The falls in ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) to forced vital capacity (FVC) and expiratory rates at 5 and 15 minutes after the exercise were significant in obese boys. Only significant change was the fall in FEV1/FVC at 5th minutes in controls. There was no significant difference between obese group and controls in the number of EIB-positive cases. Pulmonary function changes after the exercise had significant negative correlation with body mass index, subscapular and biceps skinfolds.

CONCLUSIONS

Since the fall in pulmonary function was severe in obese boys and these falls were correlated with body mass index and skinfolds, it is concluded that diagnosis and management of EIB may improve aerobic exercise performance and participation in obese children.