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Obesity and respiratory diseases in childhood

Elizabeth K Fiorino1, Lee J Brooks

  • 1Division of Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

Clinics in Chest Medicine
|August 25, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity is rising and linked to reduced lung function and increased risks for conditions like asthma and obstructive sleep apnea. These conditions can lead to severe health issues, including obesity-hypoventilation syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Respiratory Medicine
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Childhood obesity rates have significantly increased over the last 50 years.
  • Obesity is associated with reduced lung volumes due to increased chest and abdominal loading.
  • The relationship between childhood obesity and asthma severity requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the multifaceted health implications of childhood obesity.
  • To examine the link between obesity and respiratory issues in children.
  • To assess the impact of obesity on conditions such as asthma and obstructive sleep apnea.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological data on childhood obesity prevalence.
  • Analysis of physiological mechanisms linking obesity to lung function.
  • Examination of clinical associations between obesity and pediatric respiratory conditions.

Main Results:

  • Obesity is linked to decreased lung volumes in children.
  • Childhood obesity is a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
  • Severe obesity and OSA can contribute to obesity-hypoventilation syndrome and increase surgical risks.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood obesity poses significant risks to respiratory health.
  • Obesity is associated with increased severity and persistence of conditions like OSA.
  • Addressing childhood obesity is crucial for preventing related respiratory complications.

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