A cross-sectional comparison of 120 children aged 8-15 found shorter six-minute walk distance and higher impulse-oscillometry markers of peripheral airway resistance in the obesity group, while FEV1 did not differ. The study identifies associations at one time point and cannot establish that obesity caused the differences.
Key findings
- Predicted FVC was higher in the obesity group (114% versus 106%), while FEV1/FVC was lower (85.0 versus 88.1%) and FEV1 was similar. Six-minute walk distance was 542 versus 583 metres. R5, R20, R5-R20, Fres and AX were elevated, and adiposity measures correlated with walk distance and R5-R20.
Why this matters globally
The findings support looking beyond body weight to exercise capacity and peripheral-airway signals in paediatric obesity, while reference standards and clinical meaning require confirmation in other populations.
Thai researcher contribution
The Siriraj team generated Thai paediatric evidence linking conventional lung-function measures, IOS and functional exercise capacity, providing a basis for longitudinal regional research.
Limitations to consider
The cross-sectional, single-centre design used unequal groups and cannot determine causality. Asthma, activity, baseline fitness and pubertal stage may confound results. IOS is a physiological measure, not a stand-alone diagnosis.