Asthma Risk Twice as High in Smokers, Drinkers with Unhealthy BMI
Women with a low or high body mass index (BMI) who smoke and drink are at least twice as likely to experience wheezing symptoms and to be diagnosed with asthma than healthy women who do not smoke or drink, according to a new study.
While previous research has examined these risk factors individually, this is the first study to assess the combined impact of BMI, smoking, drinking, and use of solid fuels—like charcoal or wood—for cooking on individuals’ risk of developing asthma.
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To conduct their study, the the researchers collected data on wheezing symptoms, diagnosed asthma, BMI, smoking, drinking, and use of solid fuel from 175,000 individuals aged 18 to 44 participating in surveys in 51 countries from 2002 to 2004.
The researchers defined an underweight BMI as less than 18.5 kg/m2 and an obese BMI as 30 kg/m2 or more.
After analyzing the data, the researchers found that more men than women were smokers and drinkers, but more women than men were underweight and obese.
Men and women who were underweight, were smokers, and used solid fuel had a higher risk for wheezing symptoms. Women who were underweight, smokers, and used solid fuel had a higher risk for being diagnosed with asthma.
Overall, all 3 risk factors affected wheezing symptoms and asthma in both men and women. However, the combined effects from the 3 risk factors consistently affected women more significantly than men.
“BMI, smoking, drinking, and solid fuel use—in combination—are associated with double or triple the risk of development of asthma,” the researchers concluded. “These risk factors might help explain the wide variation in asthma burden across countries.”
—Amanda Balbi
Reference:
Patra J, Maher YI, Mishra S, et al. Effects of body mass index, tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking and solid fuel use on the risk of asthma: Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta-analysis of 175 000 individuals from 51 nationally representative surveys [published online April 4, 2016]. BMJ Open Resp Res. doi:10.1136/bmjresp-2015-000121.