Reference equations of the oxygen uptake based on step test portable prototype in obese population

• Grant number: 16/21913-2
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): March 01, 2017
• Effective date (End): February 28, 2018
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal researcher: Audrey Borghi e Silva
• Grantee: Carla Farias Fagundes
• Home Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a chronic disease associated with adverse metabolic effects and reduced functional capacity. The oxygen uptake (VO2) obtained by cardiopulmonary exercise testing is considered the gold standard method for the cardio respiratory fitness assessment, but its use is restricted due to the high costs involved. Thus, we have previously registered a patent of a step ergometer with a performance recorder coupled to a software, an economically viable ergometer, presenting easy applicability and interpretation, low cost and that requires a reduced space for evaluation of cardio respiratory fitness in obese people. However, it is necessary to establish predictive equations of VO2 for obese population in this device which include the age group from 20 to 79 years old, thus facilitating its clinical use. Objectives: To establish reference equations for the six-minute step test (6MST) from the prototype based on demographic, anthropometric and body composition able to predict VO2 and the number of up-and-down step cycles in obese individuals. Methods: Cross-sectional and observational study. It will be included 60 obese volunteers (body mass index> 30 kg/m2), of both sexes, being 10 individuals (five men) per decade considering the age groups (from 20 to 79 years). On the first day, they will be submitted to the physiotherapy evaluation, spirometry and body composition assessment by bioelectrical impedance. In the second day, it will be applied the 6MST with simultaneous collection of expired gases. Relevance of the study: By means of developing and applicating the VO2 prediction equations in 6MST using this prototype, we expect to present reference equations in its coupled software, and thus reduce the assessment costs of cardio respiratory fitness, making the evaluation more accessible and objective for the individualized exercise prescription as a rehabilitative strategy for obese population. (AU)