Assessing the Role of Body Mass Index in the Development and Severity of Asthma and COPD

Abstract

Background: Asthma and COPD are chronic respiratory diseases with significant global morbidity. Emerging evidence highlights the role of BMI in disease severity and progression, though the relationship remains complex. Obesity exacerbates asthma through inflammation and mechanical restrictions, while underweight worsens COPD outcomes. This study explores BMI's impact on asthma and COPD, addressing demographic factors, comorbidities, and clinical outcomes to inform better management strategies. Objectives: Assess BMI's role in asthma and COPD development and severity. Evaluate demographics, classify BMI, and analyze symptoms, comorbidities, and hospital admissions. Method and Materials: This cross-sectional study included 518 asthma/COPD patients at Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya Medical College Hospital for the period of June 2023 to May 2024. Data on demographics, BMI, symptoms, comorbidities, and lung function were collected. Statistical analysis used SPSS (v26.0). Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Inclusion: adults ≥21 with asthma/COPD; exclusion: other respiratory diseases, malignancies, or incomplete records. Results: The study population (n=518) was predominantly male (59.8%) and most commonly within the 51–60 years age group (23.4%). In terms of nutritional status, normal weight individuals comprised the largest proportion (41.3%), followed by overweight (24.3%) and underweight (19.7%) participants. Among the respiratory conditions, asthma was observed in 300 patients and COPD in 218 patients, with the majority in both groups being of normal weight (40.0% and 41.3%, respectively). Hypertension and diabetes were present in 62.5% and 37.5% of the study population, respectively, with the highest prevalence of both conditions noted among overweight individuals. Conclusion: BMI significantly influences asthma and COPD severity, with underweight and obesity posing risks, highlighting the need for weight-based management strategies.