Evaluation of Systolic Function using Global Longitudinal Strain in Isolated Obese and Overweight People

The association of obesity with left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is fully understood, but there are few investigations regarding its effect on LV systolic function in the absence of other risk factors. This study aimed to identify the global longitudinal strain (GLS) changes in isolated overweight and obese people in the absence of other risk factors.

A total of 120 individuals, including 60 obese, 30 overweight, and 30 healthy controls with no underlying disease and no history of hypertension, diabetes, CAD, or CKD were included in the study. Echocardiographic findings were measured, including apical 2-, 3- and 4-chamber GLS, GLS total, LV diameter, interventricular septum thickness, and PAP. These findings were then compared between the three groups (obese, overweight, and normal controls).

Analyses showed that LV diameter in healthy controls was significantly lower compared to overweight (p = 0.02) and obese (p < 0.0001) participants. Also, the interventricular septal thickness was significantly increased in overweight (p = 0.007) and obese (p < 0.0001) individuals compared to healthy controls. The mean and standard deviation (Mean ± SD) of total GLS values were - 22.29% ± 1.89% for normal weight, -22.09% ± 1.91% for overweight, and -19.88% ± 2.34% for obese individuals. The total GLS of obese participants was significantly lower than overweight and normal controls (p < 0.0001). It was observed that the GLS values were significantly lower in people with BMI higher than 40. The mean ± SD of total GLS values were -20.68% (1.84%) for BMI ≤ 40 patients and -18.51% (2.52%) for BMI > 40 patients.

Data revealed that all GLS values had a moderately strong correlation with BMI values. Also, subclinical LV dysfunction was detected in overweight and obese subjects.