Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that occurs when the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. It is estimated that 25 million people in the United States have asthma, including 7 million children.

While there are a variety of factors that can contribute to the development of asthma, research has shown that kids with high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop asthma.

What is BMI?

BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

BMI is often used as a screening tool to help identify potential weight problems in children and adults. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, while a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.

The link between BMI and asthma

Studies have shown that kids with high BMI are more likely to develop asthma. This may be due to a number of factors:.

Inflammation: Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, which can contribute to the development of asthma.
Reduced lung function: Obesity can cause the lungs to function less efficiently, leading to breathing problems and an increased risk of asthma.
Hormonal factors: Some researchers speculate that hormonal factors may play a role in the link between obesity and asthma. Leptin, a hormone produced by fat cells, has been shown to play a role in both obesity and asthma.

Preventing asthma in overweight and obese children

The good news is that there are steps parents can take to help reduce their child’s risk of developing asthma:.

Maintain a healthy weight: Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.
Be aware of asthma triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that can aggravate asthma symptoms, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
Seek prompt treatment: If your child does develop asthma, seek prompt treatment to help manage their symptoms and prevent complications.

The bottom line

Kids with high BMI are more likely to develop asthma, but there are steps parents can take to help reduce this risk.

Encouraging a healthy diet and regular physical activity and being aware of asthma triggers can help keep your child healthy and reduce their risk of developing asthma.