Body Mass Index And Pulmonary Function Parameters Among Adults: A Correlational Study

Abstract

Background: Anthropometric traits and occupational environmental exposures are recognized to affect pulmonary function. Long-term exposure to air-conditioned (AC) environments may modify respiratory mechanics, especially in individuals with differing body mass index (BMI). Nonetheless, evidence investigating the synergistic effects of BMI and air-conditioning exposure on pulmonary function is still scarce.

Objective: To examine the correlation between anthropometric variables and pulmonary function parameters, and to assess the impact of air-conditioning exposure on lung function in adults.

Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out over 2.5 years in Kalol, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, with 400 healthy adults aged 25 to 45 years. There were 200 people who used AC and 200 who didn't.  Anthropometric measurements were taken, and BMI was categorized based on WHO standards. A portable spirometer was used to measure pulmonary function tests, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV), the FEV/FVC ratio, the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and the forced expiratory flow 25–75% (FEF –). Pearson’s 25 75 correlation and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to ascertain predictors of pulmonary function.

Results: BMI exhibited a significant negative correlation with PEFR (p < 0.001), whereas age displayed a robust inverse relationship with expiratory flow parameters. There was a positive relationship between height and PEFR (p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, exposure to air conditioning was independently correlated with reduced FVC and FEV (p < 0.001). Being a man was a strong predictor of higher PEFR (p < 0.001).₁ The regression model that included age, sex, AC exposure, and BMI accounted for as much as 79.9% of the differences in PEFR.

Conclusion: Anthropometric variables, especially BMI and age, have a substantial impact on pulmonary function parameters. Long-term exposure to air conditioning is linked to smaller lung volumes, highlighting the importance of monitoring workplace health and making lifestyle changes to protect respiratory health.