Obesity and respiratory muscles

It is known that there is a relationship between obesity and how well some parts of the breathing system work. It is less well known what effect obesity has on the muscles that are used for breathing. This project aims to investigate the relationship between body mass index (a measure of obesity) and respiratory muscle strength.

We will also investigate any differences in respiratory muscle strength between those that do and don't have obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). Other factors which could influnce this relationship such as heart function and lung function will also be taken into account.

It is expected that there will be a relationship between BMI and respiratory muscle strength, with respiratory muscle getting weaker as BMI increases. It is also expected that those with OHS will have weaker muscles than those who don't.


Full Name

Investigation of relationship between respiratory muscle strength and body mass index (BMI)

Primary Investigator

Danny Brazzale

Stream

Respiratory > Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Donate

Consider making a donation to help us learn more about obesity hypoventilation syndrome and other disorders. You can make an important contribution to the work of our research teams through a financial donation.



Respiratory Biomarkers in Motor Neurone DiseaseRESPIRATORY BIOMARKERS IN MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE

The inability to breathe is unfortunately the most common cause of death in people living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Last year, our clinical research group in Melbourne reported that breathing...

Notch monitoring in sleepNOTCH MONITORING IN SLEEP

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is abnormal during sleep. There are two main forms of sleep apnea: obstructive and central. For obstructive sleep apnea, breathing is reduced because the airway...

ResearchFest 2026RESEARCHFEST 2026

ResearchFest 2026 at Austin Health launched new research flagships and honored Professor Mark Howard (Distinguished Scientist) and Professor Eliza Hawkes (Women in Research Award), with insights from Peter Doherty.

Championing Sleep Research!CHAMPIONING SLEEP RESEARCH!

We are announcing exciting updates to our Early and Mid-Career Researcher (EMCR) representation at the Institute for Breathing and Sleep (IBAS). The MSRC extend a warm thank you to Charissa Zaga and welcome Jessica Manousakis!

ANZSRS Life Membership for Danny BrazzaleANZSRS LIFE MEMBERSHIP FOR DANNY BRAZZALE

Danny Brazzale has earned a prestigious ANZSRS Life Membership—held by only 11 people—for his global leadership and dedicated mentorship in respiratory science.

Perth Highlights: TSANZSRS 2026PERTH HIGHLIGHTS: TSANZSRS 2026

A huge congratulations to all our team members who participated in the excellent workshops and meetings at the TSANZSRS Annual Scientific Meeting in Perth in March 2026! Well Done!

Institute for Breathing and Sleep

Level 5, Harold Stokes Building, Austin Health
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084

(03) 9496 5390

Email Us

Donate