Abstract
Obesity is an established risk factor for various diseases and weight loss is important to improve these comorbidities. Although exercise is effective to suppress obesity, obesity-related respiratory disorders are likely deterrents of physical activity. Therefore, it is important to clarify the role of exercise therapy in the treatment of obesity, especially the extent to which it is valid for obesity-related respiratory disorders. Weight loss, consequent to body fat reduction, is crucial for the improvement in obesity-related respiratory disorders. In addition, exercise therapy has been suggested to be effective in reducing dyspnea on exertion and sleep apnea or hypopnea, independent of the effects of weight loss. Furthermore, exercise therapy is expected to improve peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2) and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Irrespective of diet therapy or surgical procedures towards weight reduction, a comprehensive program combined with exercise therapy may be effective for obese patients with respiratory disorders.
