Influence of gender and body mass index on autonomic reactivity in adults and middle-aged population

Abstract

Background and Aim: Studies have reported that both age and gender influences cardiovascular reactivity among adult and elderly. The current study was conducted to assess the effect of body mass index (BMI) on autonomic reactivity tests of different age groups in both sexes. Methods: The present study was conducted on 124 healthy volunteers categorized into adult population aged 20– 45 years (male = 32, female = 31) and middle‑aged population aged 46–60 years (male = 31, female = 30). Parameters for parasympathetic activity (30:15 ratio, standing to lying ratio, and deep breathing difference) were recorded using electrocardiograph. Sympathetic activity was assessed by cold pressure test (rise in diastolic blood pressure). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to assess the association of BMI with autonomic reactivity. Results: Adults males had larger positive correlation between BMI and autonomic reactivity than females, but in middle‑aged, there is no significant difference between the sexes. Among females, premenopausal subjects have less correlation between BMI and autonomic reactivity compared to postmenopausal subjects. Conclusion: Body mass index is correlated with autonomic reactivity in the younger population compared to the middle‑aged population. Gender appears to alter the autonomic reactivity by affecting the BMI. BMI plays an important role in the modulation of autonomic functions.