Physical activity and maximal oxygen uptake in adults with Prader–Willi syndrome

Background Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS) is the most common genetic syndrome causing life-threatening obesity. Strict adherence to a low-calorie diet and regular physical activity are needed to prevent weight gain. Direct measurement of maximal oxygen uptake (VO 2 max), the “gold standard” for assessing aerobic exercise capacity, has not been previously described in PWS. Objectives Assess aerobic capacity by direct measurement of VO 2 max in adults with PWS, and in age and BMI-matched controls (OC), and compare the results with values obtained by indirect prediction methods. Methods and patients Seventeen individuals (12 males) age: 19–35 (28.6 ± 4.9) years, BMI: 19.4–38.1 (27.8 ± 5) kg/m 2 with genetically confirmed PWS who exercise daily, and 32 matched OC (22 males) age: 19–36 (29.3 ± 5.2) years, BMI: 21.1–48.1 (26.3 ± 4.9) kg/m 2 . All completed a medical questionnaire and performed strength and flexibility tests. VO 2 max was determined by measuring oxygen consumption during a graded exercise test on a treadmill. Results VO 2 max (24.6 ± 3.4 vs 46.5 ± 12.2 ml/kg/min, p