The Effect of Body Mass Index on Pulmonary Function Tests in Young Adults

Background: Lung function parameters are linked to body mass index (BMI), which is a frequent predictor of overweight and obesity as well as body size. The simplest test for diagnosing lung disease is the pulmonary function test. Objective: To study the association of BMI and pulmonary function. Material and Methods: 110 participants in the 18–22 age range participated in the current cross-sectional prospective study, which was carried out in Nalanda medical college and hospital, Bihar. Participants having a history of smoking, cardiovascular diseases, bronchial asthma, restrictive lung diseases, or other respiratory conditions were not allowed to participate in the study. The Medical College's Ethical Committee gave its approval to the project. PFT, anthropometry, and the subject’s demographic profile were among the data. The resulting data was tallied and statistical analysis was performed. Results: Participants who were obese showed noticeably lower FVC and FEV₁ than those with normal BMI. In all BMI categories, the FEV₁/FVC ratio stayed within normal bounds, indicating a primarily restrictive pattern of lung damage in those with higher BMIs. Conclusion: Compared to individuals with a normal BMI, those who are underweight or obese have worse lung function measures. Fostering the best potential respiratory health may depend on maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) through regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.