Lifestyle modification for weight loss: Effects on cardiorespiratory capacity in patients with class II and class III obesity

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of obesity has increased worldwide. Obesity affectsthe lungs and airways, limits peak oxygen uptake, and hampers physical perfor-mance; however, objective data are scarce. Does lifestyle modification for weightloss (LM) have an impact on cardiorespiratory capacity (CRC) in patients with classII and class III obesity?Method: This was a singlecenter prospective 2year followup pilot study. Fourseparated stays in the inpatient specialized medical center Muritunet with an in-tegrated approach to LM, including an individual plan on diet and physical activity(PA) goals. Furthermore, it included lectures and counseling on human anatomy andphysiology, nutrition, physical exercise, and motivation, as well as daily PA.Cardiopulmonary and blood chemistry tests were conducted.Results: Seventyseven participants were included; however, 47% (n = 36) droppedout during followup. Fortyone participants completed the study. At baseline (BL),the mean age was 45.4 (SD 10.2, range 23–62) years, with a mean body mass index(BMI) of 41.3 (SD 5.4) kg/m2, and 85% (n = 35) had one or more comorbidities, suchas obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 15, 37%), obstructive sleep apnea (n = 19,46%), type 2 diabetes (n = 20, 49%), and hypertension (n = 17, 41%). The meanfunctional residual capacity increased, significantly the second year (p = 0,037). CRCincreased significantly the first year (p = 0.032). Weight and BMI declined, reachingstatistical significance at 2 years for both males and females (p = 0.033 andp = 0.003, respectively). At BL, the participants reported lower healthrelatedquality of life compared to the general Norwegian population. Across time thephysical component summary score (quality of life) for both males and females(p = 0.011 and p = 0.049, respectively) increased significantly.Conclusion: Lifestyle modification for weight loss improves CRC in patients withclass II and class III obesity.

Lifestyle modification for weight loss: Effects on cardiorespiratory capacity in patients with class II and class III obesity