The more weight a child has, the higher the risk of developing asthma, according to Germany’s Association of Pulmonologists.

Their finding is based on a new study that indicates there is a direct correlation between over-average body mass index (BMI) and asthma. The correlation is independent of other factors such as social background or lack of exercise.

Body mass index is calculated by dividing a person’s body weight measured in kilograms by the square of their height in metres.

An over-average BMI is when the figure is higher than 25. As BMI increases so too does the amount of fatty tissue in the body, According to Germany’s Association of Pulmonologists. This can lead to more infections and asthma.

The Association of Pulmonologists advises overweight children to alter their diet and take more exercise.

That also applies to children who have already developed asthma.

Swimming, inline skating, cycling and trekking are particularly good forms of exercise for asthma sufferers.

Exercise should begin slowly and gradually increase. Regular breaks are also important and should be twice as long as phases of exercise.