Correlation of Body Mass Index, Mean Arterial Pressure with Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Healthy Individuals- A Descriptive Study

Introduction: Modern lifestyle has resulted in an increased prevalence of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases along with being overweight. An interaction between the three factors has also been demonstrated. Aim: The study aimed to assess the relationship of Body Mass Index (BMI), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) in healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was done in the Department of Physiology, KGMU, Lucknow from 30th July 2019 to 30th July 2020. Forty healthy individuals, aged 18-35 years were assessed for height, weight, blood pressure and spirometric parameter of PEFR. PEFR was chosen as it was a reliable representative of airways functioning. PEFR reflects proximal airway calibre changes which might be due to effect of airway geometry. A correlation test was run to test the relation between BMI and PEFR and MAP and PEFR. Results: A weak negative correlation (r=-0.136) was noted between BMI and PEFR indicating that as BMI increased, PEFR compromised. A linear correlation was observed between MAP and PEFR. Conclusion: The present study confirms a weak association of BMI with PEFR, however strong association of MAP with PEFR was noticed