Author(s): Mohammad Salehi, Mehdi Latif, Fatemeh Peighambari, Mohammad Dehestani, Seyed Vahid Ahmadi-Hanzaei
Background: Being overweight is the main risk factor for many chronic disorders, especially cardiovascular diseases. Hypertension is the first reaction of the heart to overburdens imposed by obesity or overweightness. In this study, we evaluated the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and echocardiographic findings in overweight patients compared to normal-weight patients. Methods: This historical cohort study was conducted on 60 patients divided into two groups of 30 based on their measured weight: group 1 had a BMI of 20-25 kg/m2 and was the control; group 2 had a BMI of >25-30 kg/m2. Demographic and clinical data, as well as echocardiographic results, were recorded for all patients. Results: The mean age of patients in the control group (41.06 ± 12.82 years) and the overweight group (46.84 ± 12.61 years) was not significantly different (P = 0.067). Systolic blood pressure (P = 0.003) and pulse rate (P = 0.028) were significantly higher in the overweight group. Ejection fraction (P = 0.036); end-systolic (P < 0.001) and end-diastolic (P < 0.001) left ventricular dimensions; and left ventricular mass index (P = 0.005) were significantly higher in the control group. Conclusion: Overweightness due to anatomical remodeling can cause diastolic heart failure in the left ventricle. According to the relatively poor prognosis of treatment features in patients with probable risk factors for heart failure, such as diabetes, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease, we recommend considering overweightness as a strong prognostic factor for heart failure.