The effect of body weight on peak expiratory flow rate (pefr) among the adolescent rural school children, an observational study

Background: The increasing prevalence of childhood obesity in developing countries is a growing public health concern. Obesity has been linked to pulmonary dysfunction, including reduced peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). This study aimed to investigate the effect of body weight on PEFR among rural adolescent school children. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in schools located in and around Nagamangala Taluk, with a study duration of 18 months. The sample size was determined using a formula based on the prevalence of obesity in school-going children. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), were recorded. PEFR was measured using a peak flow meter. Statistical analysis, including correlation coefficient, t-test, and linear regression analysis, was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The study included 573 rural adolescent school children, with a majority aged between 13 and 15 years and a higher proportion of female participants. The prevalence of overweight based on WHtR was 29.7%. There was no significant difference in mean age between overweight and normal WHtR groups. However, a higher prevalence of overweight was observed among boys compared to girls. Higher consumption of sweets, soft drinks, and fast food was significantly associated with overweight, while a higher frequency of exercise showed an inverse association. Longer duration of TV viewing was also associated with overweight. Overweight children had a significantly higher mean BMI and lower mean PEFR compared to children with a normal WHtR. There was a significant inverse correlation between PEFR and both BMI and WHtR. Conclusion: The present study observed a significant inverse correlation between PEFR and both BMI and WHtR. The study findings support the negative impact of excess body weight on lung function, as evidenced by reduced PEFR among overweight rural adolescent school children. The results emphasize the need for interventions to address childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors. Awareness among healthcare professionals, parents, and educators is crucial for early detection and management of pulmonary dysfunction associated with excess body weight in children.