Are Obese Women More Likely To Suffer From Asthma?

By Kat Fuschillo
Writer for FEP International

We know that obesity can cause a number of health conditions and serious illnesses such as liver and heart disease, but recently a link has been discovered between obesity and asthma in women. Read on to find out more about this discovery and how you could help to reduce your risk of developing asthma.

Obesity and asthma...

It was recently reported that women who are obese, are at risk of developing asthma in their adult lives. Over eighty thousand female medical cases were examined by researchers, and the results showed a definite link between the two conditions. It showed that larger ladies are now up to 40% more likely to suffer from asthma than those who are considered to be at a more normal or healthy weight. Large numbers of obese and overweight women with no history of asthma or any kind of respiratory problems were found to be developing asthma in their adult years.

Even women who are not obese but have larger than average waist measurements are also highly susceptible to the condition. Any woman with a waist measurement of 35 inches or more is seriously putting her health as risk. These 'apple shaped' women who carry excess weight around their waists are not only more likely to suffer from asthma, but also a whole host of other dangerous health problems. This excess weight can lead to a number of serious conditions, because the fat puts our bodies and our organs under too much strain. But, extra fat around the stomach area isn't just problematic for women. Many men with beer bellies and large stomachs are putting too much strain on their hearts, making them likely candidates for heart conditions [1-2].

The rise in asthma cases in the US...

There are a number of known causes for asthma including smoking and pollution, but health care professionals are concerned that the rising number of asthmatic cases in the US are directly related to the growing number of adults and children with obesity and weight problems.

How to reduce your risk of asthma...

Those who suffer from severe asthmatic and breathing conditions may find it difficult to exercise and to maintain a healthy weight. Any extra weight carried can cause asthma to worsen and attacks to be more frequent and severe. This is why it's so important for those who are worst affected by asthma to maintain a well balanced healthy diet. Those with less serve cases should try to exercise daily, eat a healthy diet. It's also suggested that you try and maintain a healthy weight, a safe BMI and normal waist measurement. If at any point you do notice that your are gaining weight, try to act before your weight gain escalates further. Make sure you make any necessary changes to your diet immediately, and reduce the amount of food you eat each day.

References

1. Apple-shaped women's asthma risk –
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8217935.stm. Accessed Aug 29, 2009.

2 . Hormone linked to obesity and asthma –

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2007/jul/17/health.uknews. Accessed Aug 29, 2009.