Obesity, physical fitness, and inflammatory markers in Polish children

BACKGROUND The relationship between obesity, physical fitness, and inflammation was analyzed in a Polish population aged 12 to 18 years. MATERIAL/METHODS Body mass index measurements and Eurofit physical fitness tests were undertaken to assess the adiposity and physical fitness status, respectively, of subjects. Serum samples were collected to measure standard inflammatory markers, including interleukin 6; and the acute-phase proteins alpha1-acid glycoprotein and alpha1-antichymotrypsin. In addition, the glycosylation profiles of alpha1-acid glycoprotein and alpha1-antichymotrypsin were analyzed to further evaluate immune statuses. RESULTS The physical fitness of individuals was negatively influenced by obesity. Obese subjects were characterized by an abnormal immune balance, including increased levels of alpha1-acid glycoprotein, as well as alpha1-antichymotrypsin, and altered glycosylation profiles indicative of an underlying inflammatory condition. Older age, male sex, and a large body mass index appeared to correlate with poor physical fitness scores and a disturbed immune status. CONCLUSIONS Impaired physical fitness is indicative for non-compensated overweight and affects mainly males aged 15 to 18 years. Female subjects seemed to cope better with increased body mass.