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.