Obesity and the pulmonologist.

Deane S, Thomson A.

Department of Paediatrics, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.

Summary by Jamie H. Bassel, D.C., P.C.

In this month’s Archives in Diseases in Childhood, a complete review of the current research focuses on the relative increase in obstructive sleep disorders and its association with clinical obesity.  It has been established that obese children have more respiratory symptoms than children of normal weight. Weight has a direct relationship with obstructive breathing disorders including sleep apnea.  Being overweight produces automatic changes in breathing performance. Wheezing, coughing or snoring are not connected to improved airway sensitivity and may react more to weight loss than invasive procedures like bronchodilator therapy or surgery. A large amount of obese children have signs and symptoms of airway obstruction largely linked to obesity and its effect on upper airway size. The researchers conclude that unless weight loss and dietary changes are made, the number of preventable deaths caused by obstructive sleep apnea will continue to rise.

 Arch Dis Child. 2006 Feb;91(2):188-91.

Abstract - click here

edited: 08/19/2008