A study of lung function in patients with metabolic syndrome at a tertiary care hospital using spirometry

Background From large-scale studies especially taking the reference of the Asian population, it has been documented that those with metabolic syndrome have restrictive pulmonary function tests. Objective To assess lung function using spirometry in patients with metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods A prospective observational study was carried out among 50 cases with known metabolic syndrome. Waist circumference was measured. After overnight fasting, 5 ml of venous blood was collected under sterile aseptic conditions for fasting plasma glucose (by glucose oxidase and peroxidase method) and lipid profile (triglycerides-GPO-POD, high-density lipoprotein-enzyme selective protective direct done in our lab). Blood pressure was measured manually by sphygmomanometer by taking average of three readings. Pulmonary function tests were conducted using the spirometry. Results Majority were 41–60 years (44%). The mean age was 49.89 ± 12.12 years. Females were more than males (58% vs. 42%). Majority (>40%) of males and females had the comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension and abnormal lipid profile. Hypertension was significantly more in 40–60 years compared to younger or older age groups (P < 0.05). But, diabetes and abnormal lipid profile were not significantly different across age groups (P > 0.05). The factors like being male, diabetic, obese and having abnormal lipid profile were significantly associated with the abnormal pulmonary function test (P < 0.05). Age and hypertension were not associated with the abnormal pulmonary function test (P > 0.05). Conclusions In patients with metabolic syndrome, presence of diabetes, being male, obesity and abnormal lipid profile affect the normal pulmonary function. Hence, all patients with metabolic syndrome should try to modify the lifestyle to prevent the restrictive pulmonary function.