Lifestyle modification for weight loss: Effects on cardiorespiratory capacity in patients with class II and class III obesity

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of obesity has increased worldwide. Obesity affects the lungs and airways, limits peak oxygen uptake, and hampers physical performance; however, objective data are scarce. Does lifestyle modification for weight loss (LM) have an impact on cardiorespiratory capacity (CRC) in patients with class II and class III obesity? METHOD: This was a single‐center prospective 2‐year follow‐up pilot study. Four separated stays in the inpatient specialized medical center Muritunet with an integrated approach to LM, including an individual plan on diet and physical activity (PA) goals. Furthermore, it included lectures and counseling on human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, physical exercise, and motivation, as well as daily PA. Cardiopulmonary and blood chemistry tests were conducted. RESULTS: Seventy‐seven participants were included; however, 47% (n = 36) dropped out during follow‐up. Forty‐one participants completed the study. At baseline (BL), the mean age was 45.4 (SD 10.2, range 23–62) years, with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 41.3 (SD 5.4) kg/m(2), and 85% (n = 35) had one or more comorbidities, such as obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 15, 37%), obstructive sleep apnea (n = 19, 46%), type 2 diabetes (n = 20, 49%), and hypertension (n = 17, 41%). The mean functional residual capacity increased, significantly the second year (p = 0,037). CRC increased significantly the first year (p = 0.032). Weight and BMI declined, reaching statistical significance at 2 years for both males and females (p = 0.033 and p = 0.003, respectively). At BL, the participants reported lower health‐related quality of life compared to the general Norwegian population. Across time the physical component summary score (quality of life) for both males and females (p = 0.011 and p = 0.049, respectively) increased significantly. CONCLUSION: Lifestyle modification for weight loss improves CRC in patients with class II and class III obesity.