The Asthma-Obesity Connection

Could a trimmer waistline be the cure for asthma? Probably not, but there's increasing evidence that excess weight gain raises risks for asthma. Researchers say lung compression may be a key factor in linking asthma and obesity. A recent study, conducted by experts at the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, found that the lungs of obese people are underexpanded and the size of their breaths smaller, making it more likely that their airways will narrow. Other factors that can contribute to asthma include inflammation and changes in blood levels of hormones derived from fat tissue. Click on the links below to learn more about the asthma-obesity connection.