Evaluation of systolic function using global longitudinal strain in isolated obese and overweight people

Purpose There are scarce investigations regarding the effect of obesity on left ventricular systolic function in absence of other risk factors. This study aimed to identify the global longitudinal strain (GLS) changes in isolated overweight and obese people in absence of other risk factors. Method A total of 60 obese people, 30 overweight, and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Echocardiographic findings including apical 2-, 3- and 4-chamber GLS, GLS total, left ventricular (LV) diameter, interventricular septum thickness, and PAP were measured and compared between the three groups. Results Analyses showed that LV diameter in healthy controls was significantly lower compared to overweight (P = 0.02) and obese (P < 0.0001) participants. Also, the interventricular septal thickness was significantly increased in overweight (P = 0.007) and obese (P < 0.0001) individuals compared to participants with normal BMI. The mean and standard deviation (Mean ± SD) of total GLS values were − 22.29% ± 1.89% for normal weight, -22.09% ± 1.91% for overweight, and − 19.88% ± 2.34% for obese individuals. The total GLS of obese participants was significantly lower than overweight and normal controls (P < 0.0001). It was observed that the GLS values were significantly lower in people with BMI higher than 40. The mean ± SD of total GLS values were − 20.68% (1.84%) for BMI ≤ 40 patients, and − 18.51% (2.52%) for BMI > 40 patients. Conclusion All GLS values had a moderately strong correlation with BMI values. Subclinical LV dysfunction was detected in overweight people in addition to obese subjects.