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

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 (VO2 max), the “gold standard” for assessing aerobic exercise capacity, has not been previously described in PWS. Assess aerobic capacity by direct measurement of VO2 max in adults with PWS, and in age and BMI-matched controls (OC), and compare the results with values obtained by indirect prediction methods. Seventeen individuals (12 males) age: 19–35 (28.6 ± 4.9) years, BMI: 19.4–38.1 (27.8 ± 5) kg/m2 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/m2. All completed a medical questionnaire and performed strength and flexibility tests. VO2 max was determined by measuring oxygen consumption during a graded exercise test on a treadmill. VO2 max (24.6 ± 3.4 vs 46.5 ± 12.2 ml/kg/min, p