Frequency and correlates of overweight status in adolescent asthma

Debate exists within the literature concerning whether asthma and obesity are linked as comorbid conditions. Further study is required to understand the relationship between asthma and overweight status, and developmental considerations are an important priority area.

The present study addressed gaps in the existing literature by comparing rates of overweight status among a matched sample of adolescents with and without asthma and by examining correlates of overweight status among youth with asthma.

Rates and correlates of overweight status were compared among a matched cohort of 103 adolescents with asthma, 75 adolescents with asthma characterized by history of a severe acute event, and 92 normal controls.

Significantly higher rates of overweight status were found among the asthma groups compared to the control group and to population estimates. Significant correlates for overweight status included younger age and earlier age at asthma diagnosis, suggesting that receiving an asthma diagnoses in early childhood may increase the propensity for weight gain.

Asthma and obesity are problematic comorbid conditions, and specialized obesity prevention programs may be particularly necessary at the onset of a new asthma diagnosis.

Identifying and addressing the factors that may contribute to the potential for obesity among youth with asthma are key research and clinical practice priorities.