Physical activity and sedentary behaviour at different life stages and adult blood pressure in the 1958 British cohort

Postpartum Remote Health Coaching Intervention for Individuals With a Hypertensive Disorder of Pregnancy: Proof-of-Concept Study

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women in America. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) negatively impact acute and long-term cardiovascular health, with approximately 16% of all pregnancies affected. With CVD 2-4 times more likely after HDP compared to normotensive pregnancies, effective interventions to promote cardiovascular health are imperative.

Objective

With postpartum physical activity (PA) interventions after HDP as an underexplored preventative strategy, we aimed in this study to assess (1) the feasibility and acceptability of a remotely delivered PA intervention for individuals with HDP 3-6 months postpartum and (2) changes in average steps per day, skills related to PA behavior, and postpartum blood pressure (BP).

Methods

A remotely delivered 14-week health coaching intervention was designed based on prior formative work. The health coaching intervention called the Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy Postpartum Exercise (HyPE) intervention was tested for feasibility and acceptability with a single-arm proof-of-concept study design. A total of 19 women who were 3-6 months postpartum HDP; currently inactive; 18 years of age or older; resided in Iowa; and without diabetes, kidney disease, and CVD were enrolled. Feasibility was assessed by the number of sessions attended and acceptability by self-reported satisfaction with the program. Changes in steps achieved per day were measured with an activPAL4 micro, PA behavior skills via validated surveys online, and BP was assessed remotely with a research-grade Omron Series 5 (Omron Corporation) BP monitor.

Results

Participants at enrollment were on average 30.3 years of age, 4.1 months postpartum, self-identified as non-Hispanic White (14/17, 82%), in a committed relationship (16/17, 94%), and had a bachelor's degree (9/17, 53%). A total of 140 of 152 possible health coaching sessions were attended by those who started the intervention (n=19, 92%). Intervention completers (n=17) indicated they were satisfied with the program (n=17, 100%) and would recommend it to others (n=17, 100%). No significant changes in activPAL measured steps were observed from pre- to posttesting (mean 138.40, SD 129.40 steps/day; P=.75). Significant improvements were observed in PA behavior skills including planning (mean 5.35, SD 4.97 vs mean 15.06, SD 3.09; P<.001) and monitoring of PA levels (mean 7.29, SD 3.44 vs mean 13.00, SD 2.45; P<.001). No significant decreases were observed for systolic (mean -1.28, SD 3.59 mm Hg; Hedges g=-0.26; P=.16) and diastolic BP (mean -1.80, SD 5.03 mm Hg; Hedges g=-0.44; P=.12).

Conclusions

While PA behaviors did not change, the intervention was found to be feasible and acceptable among this sample of at-risk women. After additional refinement, the intervention should be retested among a larger, more diverse, and less physically active sample.

Does cardiorespiratory fitness mediate or moderate the association between mid-life physical activity frequency and cognitive function? findings from the 1958 British birth cohort study

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and all-cause dementia in later life. Pathways underpinning this association are unclear but may involve either mediation and/or moderation by cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

METHODS

Data on PA frequency (exposure) at 42y, non-exercise testing CRF (NETCRF, mediator/moderator) at 45y and overall cognitive function (outcome) at 50y were obtained from 9,385 participants (50.8% female) in the 1958 British birth cohort study. We used a four-way decomposition approach to examine the relative contributions of mediation and moderation by NETCRF on the association between PA frequency at 42y and overall cognitive function at 50y.

RESULTS

In males, the estimated overall effect of 42y PA ≥once per week (vs.

CONCLUSION

We present the first evidence from a four-way decomposition analysis of the potential contribution that CRF plays in the relationship between mid-life PA frequency and subsequent cognitive function. Our lack of evidence in support of CRF mediating or moderating the PA frequency-cognitive function association suggests that other pathways underpin this association.

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Key Words Collapse

MESH Headings

• Humans
• Cardiorespiratory Fitness/physiology
• Male
• Female
• Cognition/physiology
• Exercise/physiology
• United Kingdom/epidemiology
• Adult
• Middle Aged
• Birth Cohort
• Cohort Studies

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Grants

• Medical Research Council
• British Heart Foundation

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Affiliation(s)

Tom Norris Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Sport, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Exercise and Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
John J. Mitchell Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Sport, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Exercise and Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
Joanna M. Blodgett Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Sport, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Exercise and Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
Mark Hamer Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Sport, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Exercise and Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
Snehal M. Pinto Pereira Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Sport, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Exercise and Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom

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Associations between dairy consumption, physical activity, and blood pressure in Chinese young women

Introduction

The prevalence of hypertension (HTN) has been increasing in young adults. A healthy dietary pattern and increasing physical activity (PA) are commonly recommended as lifestyle modifications needed to manage blood pressure (BP). However, little is known about the relationship between dairy intake, PA, and BP in Chinese young women. The aim of this study was to examine whether BP was associated with dairy intake, moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and total physical activity (TPA) in a sample of Chinese young women.

Methods

A total of 122 women (20.4 ± 1.4) who had complete data sets from the Physical Fitness in Campus (PFIC) study were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Data related to dairy intake and PA was collected using a food frequency questionnaire and an accelerometer. BP was measured following standardized procedures. The association between BP with dairy intake and PA was examined using multivariable linear regression models.

Results

After controlling for potential covariables, we observed a significant and independent relationship only between systolic BP with dairy intake [standardized beta (b) = -0.275, p < 0.001], MVPA (b = -0.167, p = 0.027), and TPA (b = -0.233, p = 0.002). Furthermore, we found a decrease of 5.82 ± 2.94, 1.13 ± 1.01, and 1.10 ± 0.60 mm Hg in systolic BP for daily additional servings of dairy, 10 min of MVPA, and 100 counts per minute of TPA, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the higher amount of dairy consumption or PA was associated with lower level of SBP in Chinese young women.

Sedentary Behaviors and Health Outcomes among Young Adults: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies

Objective: This study aimed to review and provide an informative synthesis of the findings from longitudinal studies that describe the relationship between sedentary behavior and various health outcomes among young adults. Methods: A literature search was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, APA PsycInfo, MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for articles that examined the association between sedentary behavior and health outcomes among young adults aged 18–34 years. Two reviewers independently examined the articles and performed data extraction and quality assessment. The level of evidence was determined using the best-evidence synthesis. Results: A total of 34 studies were included in the analysis, 18 of which were high-quality studies. On the basis of inconsistency in the findings among studies, insufficient evidence was concluded for sedentary behavior and adiposity indicators, physical fitness, metabolic syndrome/cardiovascular disease risk factors, cognitive function, and mood disorders. Based on one high-quality study, moderate evidence for a negative relationship between sedentary behavior and physical fitness was observed. Conclusions: Given the trend toward increased time in sedentary behaviors and the inconsistent current findings, additional longitudinal studies of high methodologic quality are recommended to clarify the relationships between sedentary behavior and health outcomes among young adults.

Transportation physical activity and new-onset hypertension: A nationwide cohort study in China

The association between transportation physical activity (PA) and the risk of hypertension remains uncertain. We aimed to evaluated the prospective relation of transportation PA and new-onset hypertension among Chinese adults. A total of 9350 adults who were free of hypertension at baseline were enrolled from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Data on transportation PA were obtained by using self-reported questionnaires, and calculated as metabolic equivalent task (MET)-minutes/week. MET-minutes/week may account for both intensity and time spent on activities. The study outcome was new-onset hypertension, defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg or diagnosed by physician or under antihypertensive treatment during the follow-up. During a median of 8.0 years (82,410 person-years) of follow-up, a total of 2949 participants developed hypertension. Overall, there was a U-shaped association between transportation PA and new-onset hypertension (P values for nonlinearity <0.001). Accordingly, compared with those with moderate transportation PA (213-<394 MET-minutes/week, the second quartile), significantly higher risks of new-onset hypertension were observed not only in participants with transportation PA < 213 MET-minutes/week (the first quartile) (HR, 1.29; 95%CI: 1.15-1.44), but in those with transportation PA ≥ 394 MET-minutes/ week (the 3-4 quartiles) (HR, 1.15; 95%CI: 1.04-1.27). Similar U-shaped correlations were found for various types of transportation PA (walking, bicycling, and motorized PA) and new-onset hypertension. In summary, moderate transportation PA is associated with a lower risk of new-onset hypertension among Chinese adults.

Gender Differences in The Factors associated with Hypertension in Non-Diabetic Saudi Adults-A Cross-Sectional Study

The association between lifestyle practices, obesity and increased BP are under-investigated. We aimed to investigate this association to identify the factors associated with hypertension and prehypertension in Saudis. Non-diabetic adults were recruited from public healthcare centers using a cross-sectional design. Recruits were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), neck circumference (NC) and BP were measured. The variables were analyzed by comparing the prehypertensive and hypertensive groups with the normotensive group. A total of 1334 adults were included. The study found that 47.2% of men and 24.7% of women were prehypertensive, and 15.1% of men and 14.4% of women were hypertensive. High BMI, WC, NC, and WC: HC ratios were associated with an increased risk of prehypertension and hypertension in men and women. Low physical activity was associated with an increased risk of elevated BP in men, while sleep duration of ≤6 h and sitting for ≥4 h were associated with increased risk in women. Women from central Asia, southeast Asia, and those of mixed origin had a higher prevalence of hypertension compared to those from Arabian tribes. In conclusion, prehypertension and hypertension increase with age and obesity. Gender differences were apparent in the association between several lifestyle practices and prehypertension or hypertension among various ethnic/racial groups.

Occupational Physical Activity and New-Onset Hypertension: A Nationwide Cohort Study in China

[Figure: see text].

Associations between PM2.5 exposure duration and physical activity intensity on the health of hypertension in urban residents of Beijing

Hypertension is reported to be associated with air pollution and physical activity (PA), and they have different or even conflicting effects on blood pressure (BP). The study evaluated the combined effects of PM2.5 exposure duration and physical activity intensity on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of hypertension. A total of 2613 patients (≥18-year-olds) at baseline who attended surveys from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (2011-2015) in Beijing were selected, as well as the PM2.5 data collected in the same period. The mixed linear effects model and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were used to explore the multiple effects of PM2.5 exposure duration and PA intensity on SBP and DBP, respectively. The correlation results indicated PM2.5 exposure duration (>15 days) occurred more significant correlations with DBP and longer PM2.5 exposures duration (>60 day) with SBP. The mixed linear effects model showed the important random terms of gender, PA levels, and BMI classification for both SBP and DBP. It also indicated the significant fixed effect from age for both SBP and DBP, and the significant fixed effects from PM2.5 and weight, as well as the interaction in DBP. The random effects of PA levels put effects on different weight people for SBP and on different age people for DBP, while the person of SBP exposed to PM2.5 environments may tend to be affected by BMI classification. The model's main effects showed PA and the interaction with gender could put significant effects on BP. The gender effects and the PA level effects were also improved by the MANOVA results. We concluded that the more PM2.5 exposure duration may lead to more significant correlation with higher BP values. The PA levels could lead to the different effects on the health showing the variations in age, gender, and BMI classification. For SBP of people who are exposed to PM2.5 environments, it may tend to be affected by BMI classification, which also may influence the DBP through weight adjusting first and then cause hypertension. The gender difference of BP may be affected by PA showing the higher PA level and the more gender difference.

Hypertension in Workers: The Role of Physical Activity and its Different Dimensions

BACKGROUND

Physical activity, each type in its own manner, whether occupational, domestic or leisure, can play a significant role regarding high blood pressure (HBP). However, practicing physical activity only at leisure time, or in specific situations, can be insufficient to achieve the effective control of HBP.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the isolated and cumulative effect of different types of physical activity and the prevalence of HBP among workers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 1,070 Urban Cleaning and Footwear Industry workers in Bahia, who answered a survey, conducted by an interviewer on sociodemographic, occupational, lifestyle and hypertensive morbidity aspects. Weight, height, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured. Case of HBP: Systolic blood pressure ≥140 or diastolic blood pressure ≥90, or regular treatment for HBP. The occupational, domestic and leisure aspects of Physical Activity were studied. A multivariate analysis with Cox Regression was performed for cross-sectional studies.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HBP was 24%, being 37% among workers aged between 35-44 years, and 51% among workers aged between 45-54 years. The multivariate model showed that workers who were active in one form of physical activity only or no forms had 62% higher BP levels and that these levels were 25% higher among workers who were active in two out of three physical activity forms. Being a male, being older (> 31 years old) and being overweight were characteristics associated with HBP, with prevalence ratios of 1.62, 2.10 and 2.26, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a cumulative effect of the form of physical activity on the occurrence of HBP. Classifying active subjects at work or at home as inactive persons by relying only on the leisure form can lead to methodological errors. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 114(5):755-761).

Long-Distance Skiing and Incidence of Hypertension: A Cohort Study of 206 889 Participants in a Long-Distance Cross-Country Skiing Event

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for death worldwide, and high levels of physical activity are associated with a lower incidence of hypertension. The associations of excessive levels of exercise and incidence of hypertension are less well known. We aim to compare the incidence of hypertension among 206 889 participants in a long-distance cross-country skiing event and 505 542 people randomly sampled from the general population (matched to the skiers on age, sex, and place of residence).

METHODS

Skiers' best performance (in percent of winning time) and number of completed races during the study period were associated with incidence of hypertension after participation in Vasaloppet. Hypertension was defined as prescription of blood pressure-lowering drugs as obtained from the national drug registry. Models were adjusted for sex, age, education, and income (total effect).

RESULTS

During a median time of risk of 8.3 years, skiers had a lower incidence of hypertension compared with nonskiers (hazard ratio [HR], 0.59 [95% CI, 0.58-0.60]). Among the skiers, better performance (in percent of winning time) in Vasaloppet was strongly associated with a lower incidence of hypertension (fastest fifth: HR, 0.41 [95% CI, 0.39-0.42]; slowest fifth: HR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.75-0.81]). The association was nearly linear and did not differ between sexes. Among the skiers, a weaker association was seen between the number of completed races during the study period and the incidence of hypertension (1 race: HR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.62-0.65]; >5 races: HR, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.50-0.53]). A subanalysis of 10 804 participants including adjustment for lifestyle factors showed similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

Participation in a long-distance skiing event was associated with a 41% lower incidence of hypertension over the next 8 years compared with nonparticipation. A near linear association between performance and incidence of hypertension was observed. This adds to the list of beneficial effects of intensive training, because hypertension is the leading risk factor of premature death globally.

Resistant Hypertension: Detection, Evaluation, and Management: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Resistant hypertension (RH) is defined as above-goal elevated blood pressure (BP) in a patient despite the concurrent use of 3 antihypertensive drug classes, commonly including a long-acting calcium channel blocker, a blocker of the renin-angiotensin system (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker), and a diuretic. The antihypertensive drugs should be administered at maximum or maximally tolerated daily doses. RH also includes patients whose BP achieves target values on ≥4 antihypertensive medications. The diagnosis of RH requires assurance of antihypertensive medication adherence and exclusion of the "white-coat effect" (office BP above goal but out-of-office BP at or below target). The importance of RH is underscored by the associated risk of adverse outcomes compared with non-RH. This article is an updated American Heart Association scientific statement on the detection, evaluation, and management of RH. Once antihypertensive medication adherence is confirmed and out-of-office BP recordings exclude a white-coat effect, evaluation includes identification of contributing lifestyle issues, detection of drugs interfering with antihypertensive medication effectiveness, screening for secondary hypertension, and assessment of target organ damage. Management of RH includes maximization of lifestyle interventions, use of long-acting thiazide-like diuretics (chlorthalidone or indapamide), addition of a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (spironolactone or eplerenone), and, if BP remains elevated, stepwise addition of antihypertensive drugs with complementary mechanisms of action to lower BP. If BP remains uncontrolled, referral to a hypertension specialist is advised.

Randomized Controlled Trial of Lifestyle Walking for African American Women: Blood Pressure Outcomes

The aim of this study was to test the effects of a lifestyle physical activity intervention (group meetings alone vs supplemented by personal or automated calls) on changes in systolic/diastolic blood pressures from baseline to 24 and 48 weeks among African American women. This was a randomized controlled trial with intervention conditions randomly assigned across 6 community health care sites. Participants were 288 sedentary African American women without major signs/symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Each intervention had 6 group meetings over 48 weeks, with 1 of 3 options between meetings: (1) no calls, (2) personal motivational calls, or (3) automated motivational calls. Blood pressures were taken at baseline, 24 weeks, and 48 weeks. Separate analyses were conducted using blood pressure classifications from the 2003 and 2017 high blood pressure guidelines. Average blood pressures decreased approximately 3 mm Hg for systolic and 2 mm Hg for diastolic from baseline to 48 weeks, with no differences between conditions. For both 2003 and 2017 blood pressure classifications, the risk ratio (odds of moving to a lower classification) was 1.44 for each assessment (P < .001). This lifestyle walking intervention appears beneficial in lowering blood pressure across blood pressure classifications in midlife African American women.

Early adulthood determinants of mid-life leisure-time physical inactivity stability and change: Findings from a prospective birth cohort

OBJECTIVES

Physical inactivity is highly prevalent. Knowledge is needed of influences on inactive lifestyles. We aimed to establish whether early adult factors predict subsequent inactivity patterns in mid-adulthood.

DESIGN

Leisure-time inactivity (activity frequency<1/week) was assessed at 33y and 50y in the 1958 British Birth cohort (N=12,271).

METHODS

We assessed associations of early adult (23-33y) physical status, mental function, social, family and neighbourhood circumstances with four 33-50y patterns (never inactive, persistently inactive, deteriorating or improving) using multinomial logistic regression with and without adjustment for childhood factors (e.g. social class).

RESULTS

Inactivity prevalence was similar at 33y and 50y (∼31%), but 17% deteriorated and 18% improved with age. Factors associated with persistent vs never inactive were: limiting illness (relative risk ratio (RRR):1.21(1.04,1.42) per number of ages exposed (0,1 or 2 times across ages 23y and 33y), obesity (1.33(1.16,1.54) per number of ages exposed), height (0.93(0.89,0.98) per 5cm), depression (1.32(1.19,1.47) per number of ages exposed); education (1.28(1.20,1.38) per decrease on 5-point scale) and neighbourhood (1.59(1.37,1.86) in 'industrial/local authority housing areas' and 1.33(1.12,1.58) in 'growth/metropolitan inner areas' vs 'suburbs, service, rural or seaside areas'). Associations were broadly similar for inactivity deterioration. Industrial/local authority housing areas (0.75(0.61,0.91)) and longer obesity exposure (0.78(0.64,0.95)) were associated with lower RRRs for improvement. Number of children was associated with improvement, although associations varied by age. Associations remained after adjustment for childhood factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Several early adult factors are associated with inactivity persistence and deterioration; fewer with improvement. Obesity duration and neighbourhood lived in during young adulthood had long-lasting associations with inactivity patterns in mid-life.

Genetic Predisposition to High Blood Pressure and Lifestyle Factors: Associations With Midlife Blood Pressure Levels and Cardiovascular Events

BACKGROUND

High blood pressure (BP) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Both heritable and lifestyle risk factors contribute to elevated BP levels. We aimed to investigate the extent to which lifestyle factors could offset the effect of an adverse BP genetic profile and its effect on CVD risk.

METHODS

We constructed a genetic risk score for high BP by using 314 published BP loci in 277 005 individuals without previous CVD from the UK Biobank study, a prospective cohort of individuals aged 40 to 69 years, with a median of 6.11 years of follow-up. We scored participants according to their lifestyle factors including body mass index, healthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, smoking, and urinary sodium excretion levels measured at recruitment. We examined the association between tertiles of genetic risk and tertiles of lifestyle score with BP levels and incident CVD by using linear regression and Cox regression models, respectively.

RESULTS

Healthy lifestyle score was strongly associated with BP (P<10-320) for systolic and diastolic BP and CVD events regardless of the underlying BP genetic risk. Participants with a favorable in comparison with an unfavorable lifestyle (bottom versus top tertile lifestyle score) had 3.6, 3.5, and 3.6 mm Hg lower systolic BP in low, middle, and high genetic risk groups, respectively (P for interaction=0.0006). Similarly, favorable in comparison with unfavorable lifestyle showed 30%, 33%, and 31% lower risk of CVD among participants in low, middle, and high genetic risk groups, respectively (P for interaction=0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data further support population-wide efforts to lower BP in the population via lifestyle modification. The advantages and disadvantages of disclosing genetic predisposition to high BP for risk stratification needs careful evaluation.

Sedentary Behavior and Blood Pressure in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Background

Sedentary behavior is a pervasive public health concern in the general population. To date, little is known regarding the possible health risks associated with sedentary behavior in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), although this population has increased risks of comorbidities such as hypertension.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined the association between sedentary behavior and blood pressure (BP) in 31 patients with MS and 31 matched controls. Self-reported sitting time, one form of sedentary behavior, was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Using an automated oscillometric monitor, systolic BP, diastolic BP, and mean arterial pressure were measured in the supine position after 10 minutes of rest lying down in a quiet room.

Results

There were significant correlations between International Physical Activity Questionnaire-measured sitting time and systolic BP (r = 0.365, P = .044, 95% CI, 0.013-0.636), diastolic BP (r = 0.382, P = .034, 95% CI, 0.032-0.648), and mean arterial pressure (r = 0.425, P = .017, 95% CI, 0.084-0.677) in patients with MS but not in controls (P > .05). The associations in patients with MS were unchanged even after adjusting for body mass index in linear regression analyses.

Conclusions

This study identified a significant association between sitting time and BP outcomes in patients with MS, supporting the need for additional examinations of sitting time and its possible health consequences in patients with MS.

Comparing measures of general and abdominal adiposity as predictors of blood pressure in college students

OBJECTIVE

To compare anthropometric measures of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD) as predictors of blood pressure in college students.

PARTICIPANTS

Students (N = 116) were recruited from November 2012 to May 2014 at an urban university and rural community colleges.

METHODS

Students underwent a brief physical examination during which anthropometric measures were obtained and blood pressure was measured. Covariates were measured using self-reported questionnaires. Hierarchical multiple linear regressions were used for the data analysis.

RESULTS

All anthropometric measures were predictive of systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). WC was the strongest predictor of SBP (β = .582, p < .01) explaining an additional 3-4% of the variance than BMI, WHtR, or SAD. The measures were similar in predicting DBP. WC predicted SBP independent of BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should consider using WC to assess the risk for hypertension in college students.

Influences of body mass index and physical activity on hypertension and stroke in Korean adult males: 10-year longitudinal study

[Purpose]

Routinely performed health screening results of 5,624,503 Korean men between ages 20 to 70 obtained from the National Health Insurance Service (2002-2013) were assessed for this study. Data of subjects who met the initial criteria were divided into three groups based on their BMI: normal weight (18.5 to <25.0 kg/m2), overweight (25.0 to <30.0 kg/m2), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2) groups. The results were further sub-divided by physical activity frequencies (days/week). The disease codes for hypertension and stroke were provided by the National Health Insurance Service for the adjusted relative risks (RR) assessment with the Cox proportional hazard model.

[Methods]

Routinely performed health screening results of 5,624,503 Korean men between ages 20 to 70 obtained from the National Health Insurance Service (2002-2013) were assessed for this study. Data of subjects who met the initial criteria were divided into three groups based on their BMI: normal weight (18.5 to <25.0 kg/m²), overweight (25.0 to <30.0 kg/m²), and obese (≥30.0 kg/ m²) groups. The results were further sub-divided by physical activity frequencies (days/ week). The disease codes for hypertension and stroke were provided by the National Health Insurance Service for the adjusted relative risks (RR) assessment with the Cox proportional hazard model.

[Results]

Significant RRs of hypertension and stroke were shown in the overweight moderately active group (3 – 4 days/week). In addition, significant RR of hypertension was shown in the normal weight moderately active group. No significance was seen in the obese group in all physical activity frequencies.

[Conclusion]

Regularly performed moderate amount of physical activity may be beneficial in reducing the risk for hypertension and stroke. However, the effects of excessive body weight may override the positive effects of physical activity on the occurrence of hypertension and stroke.

The association between time spent in sedentary behaviors and blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Sedentary behaviors, defined as waking behaviors with low energy expenditure while sitting, are positively associated with several adverse health outcomes. However, the association between sedentary behaviors and blood pressure (BP) is inconclusive. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between time spent in sedentary behaviors and BP.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science for papers published before August 2014 that assessed the association between time spent in sedentary behaviors and BP. Studies on both adults and children were included. Only good quality studies were included. The pooled estimates of systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) increase per hour of time spent in sedentary behaviors a day were computed using a fixed-effects model and a random-effects model, respectively. Another pooled estimate of odds ratio per hour of time spent in sedentary behaviors a day on having high BP was computed using a fixed-effects model. A sub-group analysis was conducted for studies using self-reported and objectively assessed time spent in sedentary behaviors separately.

RESULTS

A total of 31 papers of good quality were included in the systematic review, 18 of which found no association between time spent in sedentary behaviors and BP (58.1%). A total of 28 papers were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled effects showed that an additional hour of time spent in sedentary behaviors per day was associated with an increase of 0.06 mmHg (108,228 participants, 95% CI 0.01-0.11, p = 0.01) of SBP and 0.20 mmHg (107,791 participants, 95% CI 0.10-0.29, p < 0.001) of DBP. Accelerometer-assessed time spent in sedentary behaviors was not associated with either SBP (p = 0.06) or DBP (p = 0.33). The odds ratio (OR) of having high BP with an additional hour of time spent in sedentary behaviors per day was 1.02 (98,798 participants, 95% CI 1.003-1.03, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported but not accelerometer-assessed time spent in sedentary behaviors was associated with BP. Further studies are warranted to determine the preventive effect of reducing sedentary behaviors on high BP.

Television viewing duration and blood pressure among 18-74-year-old adults. The French nutrition and health survey (ENNS, 2006-2007)

OBJECTIVES

To describe Blood Pressure (BP) according to the time spent viewing television and examine whether the associations between television viewing and systolic and diastolic BP differed depending on sex, age and BMI.

DESIGN

The French health and nutrition survey (ENNS) was conducted in 2006-2007 on a multistage stratified random sample of 18-74-year-old adults.

METHODS

Systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were assessed using three measurements. Among subjects without BP-lowering drugs and lifestyle measures, adjusted means of SBP and DBP were estimated for each television viewing category (<3h and ≥3h).

RESULTS

Among 2050 ENNS participants, 81.2% declared neither drug medication nor lifestyle change to lower BP. In women without BP-lowering measure, viewing television 3h/day or more increased significantly SBP and DBP adjusted means (+2mmHg) compared to women who spent less than 3h/day in front of the television. These associations were stronger in obese or 35-54-year-old women. In men, no relationship between DBP and television-viewing has been observed. Though, SBP was positively associated with television-viewing in non-overweight, 18-29 or 55-74 year-old men.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the association between television viewing duration and BP must be evaluated differently between gender, age group and BMI category.

Physical activity and the prevention of hypertension

As the worldwide prevalence of hypertension continues to increase, the primary prevention of hypertension has become an important global public health initiative. Physical activity is commonly recommended as an important lifestyle modification that may aid in the prevention of hypertension. Recent epidemiologic evidence has demonstrated a consistent, temporal, and dose-dependent relationship between physical activity and the development of hypertension. Experimental evidence from interventional studies has further confirmed a relationship between physical activity and hypertension as the favorable effects of exercise on blood pressure reduction have been well characterized in recent years. Despite the available evidence strongly supporting a role for physical activity in the prevention of hypertension, many unanswered questions regarding the protective benefits of physical activity in high-risk individuals, the factors that may moderate the relationship between physical activity and hypertension, and the optimal prescription for hypertension prevention remain. We review the most recent evidence for the role of physical activity in the prevention of hypertension and discuss recent studies that have sought to address these unanswered questions.

Physical activity and risk of hypertension: a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies

Published literature reports controversial results about the association of physical activity (PA) with risk of hypertension. A meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies was performed to investigate the effect of PA on hypertension risk. PubMed and Embase databases were searched to identify all related prospective cohort studies. The Q test and I(2) statistic were used to examine between-study heterogeneity. Fixed or random effects models were selected based on study heterogeneity. A funnel plot and modified Egger linear regression test were used to estimate publication bias. Thirteen prospective cohort studies were identified, including 136,846 persons who were initially free of hypertension, and 15,607 persons developed hypertension during follow-up. The pooled relative risk (RR) of main results from these studies suggests that both high and moderate levels of recreational PA were associated with decreased risk of hypertension (high versus low: RR, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.76-0.85 and moderate versus low: RR, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.85-0.94). The association of high or moderate occupational PA with decreased hypertension risk was not significant (high versus low: RR, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.81-1.08 and moderate versus low: RR, 0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.87-1.06). No publication bias was observed. The results of this meta-analysis suggested that there was an inverse dose-response association between levels of recreational PA and risk of hypertension, whereas there was no significant association between occupational PA and hypertension.

Physical activity and sedentary leisure time and their associations with BMI, waist circumference, and percentage body fat in 0.5 million adults: the China Kadoorie Biobank study

BACKGROUND

Few large studies in China have investigated total physical activity and sedentary leisure time and their associations with adiposity.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated determinants of physical activity and sedentary leisure time and their associations with adiposity in China.

DESIGN

A total of 466,605 generally healthy participants (age: 30-79 y, 60% female) in the China Kadoorie Biobank were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Self-reported information on a range of activities was collected by interviewer-administered questionnaire. Physical activity was calculated as metabolic equivalent task hours per day (MET-h/d) spent on work, transportation, housework, and nonsedentary recreation. Sedentary leisure time was quantified as hours per day. Adiposity measures included BMI, waist circumference, and percentage body fat (by bioimpedance analysis). Associations were estimated by linear and logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean physical activity was 22 MET-h/d, and the mean sedentary leisure time was 3.0 h/d. For each sex, physical activity was about one-third lower among professionals/administrators than among factory workers, with intermediate levels for other occupational categories. A 1-SD (14 MET-h/d) greater physical activity was associated with a 0.15-unit (95% CI: 0.14, 0.16) lower BMI (in kg/m(2)), a 0.58-cm (95% CI: 0.55, 0.61) smaller waist circumference, and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.45, 0.50) percentage points less body fat. In contrast, a 1-SD (1.5 h/d) greater sedentary leisure time was associated with a 0.19-unit higher BMI (95% CI: 0.18, 0.20), a 0.57-cm larger waist circumference (95% CI: 0.54, 0.59), and 0.44 (95% CI: 0.42, 0.46) percentage points more body fat. For any given physical activity level, greater sedentary leisure time was associated with a greater prevalence of increased BMI, as was lower physical activity for any given sedentary leisure time.

CONCLUSIONS

In adult Chinese, physical activity varies substantially by occupation, and lack of physical activity and excess sedentary leisure time are independently and jointly associated with greater adiposity.