Body Mass Index and Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Asthmatics
Author Information
Author(s): Komakula Sushma, Khatri Sumita, Mermis Joel, Savill Samira, Haque Shireen, Rojas Mauricio, Brown LouAnn, Teague Gerald W, Holguin Fernando
Primary Institution: Emory University
Hypothesis
Does body mass index (BMI) affect exhaled nitric oxide levels in asthmatics compared to controls?
Conclusion
In asthmatics, higher BMI is associated with lower exhaled nitric oxide and higher exhaled 8-isoprostanes, indicating increased airway oxidative stress.
Supporting Evidence
- BMI was inversely associated with exhaled nitric oxide in asthmatics.
- Higher BMI correlated with increased levels of exhaled 8-isoprostanes.
- The study included both asthmatics and healthy controls for comparison.
- Leptin/adiponectin ratio was associated with reduced exhaled nitric oxide in asthmatics.
Takeaway
If you have asthma and are heavier, you might breathe out less nitric oxide, which could mean more stress in your airways.
Methodology
Observational study measuring BMI, leptin, adiponectin, exhaled nitric oxide, and exhaled 8-isoprostanes in asthmatics and controls.
Potential Biases
Potential residual confounding from unmeasured co-morbid conditions and the effects of inhaled medications.
Limitations
The study population was predominantly African American and female, which may limit generalizability; causation cannot be established due to the observational design.
Participant Demographics
67 non-smoking patients with moderate to severe persistent asthma, average age 48.9 years, 83% female, 81% Black.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.003
Confidence Interval
95% C.I. -0.07, -0.1
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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