Effect of Body Mass Index on Left Ventricular Diastolic Function

Abstract

Introduction: Overweight and obese persons are at increased risk for heart failure. A direct effect of isolated obesity on cardiac function is not well established.
Objective: To assess the independent effect of increased body mass index on the left ventricular diastolic function. Methodology: cross sectional study to measure of the left ventricular diastolic function was carried out on (175) apparently healthy persons from both sex (68 female and 107 male) aged between 26-49 years (37.5±9.5). Personnel without any other pathological condition were studied. The study sample was divided into 3 groups according to their body mass index (kg/m²): [normal (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9) & obese ( % 30)]. Echocardiographic indices of left diastolic function were obtained, and dysfunction was assumed when at least two values differed by % 2 SD from the normal weight group.
Results: Diastolic dysfunction was significantly higher in overweight and obese groups compared to the normal body mass index group. The deceleration time was with significant P-value (<0.01) and left atrial diameter (p< 0.01) was more in obese persons, while other diastolic variables were unchanged. No differences were found between obesity subgroups. Body mass index correlated significantly with indices of left ventricular diastolic function.
Conclusions: Subclinical left ventricular diastolic dysfunction was noted in all grades of obesity which correlates with body mass index, and more significant in males than females.
Recommendations: people who are suffering from obesity are recommended for follow up and assessment, also they are in need for encouragement to active participation in weight reduction programs.