Lung function decline, obesity and lifestyle: Review

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are important healthcare issues. Lung function could be a mortality predictor. Obesity impact on lung function has not been so much emphasized in literature. The large European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) population study is revealing that overweigh and obesity is impacting lung function by reducing both forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). On the contrary, weight loss is decreasing both. Mechanisms involved in lung function decline due to obesity are mechanical and inflammatory. Lifestyle elements are detailed and their impact on pulmonary function. Tobacco smoking had the worst effect. Physical activity and weight loss could attenuate lung function decline. Healthy lifestyle, with a Mediterranean diet (MD) is leading to a good lung function on long term. Regular physical activity, a good sleep and mindfulness accompany MD in a healthy lifestyle. In conclusion, comprehensive lifestyle interventions should become population based interventions for a better prevention for pulmonary diseases and NCD’s and finally for a better health status.