Obesity, Asthma, and Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Abstract

Obesity, asthma, and sleep-related breathing disorders are highly comorbid conditions. Their prevalence rates have continued to rise, contributing to alarming negative effects for individuals’ health and well-being. Additionally, these conditions present a disproportionate burden for ethnic minority, low-income, and urban populations. In this chapter, we describe pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie the association between these conditions, as well as contextual factors (e.g., urban stressors, overcrowding, lack of safe spaces to exercise) that may increase their prevalence and negative impact on health outcomes. Current data supports a growing understanding of common genetic, pathophysiological, and contextual factors that contribute to the risk for developing obesity, asthma, and sleep-related breathing disorders. Further research is needed to understand these underlying mechanisms and to develop integrated treatment strategies that prioritize targets of intervention according to level of risk.