ASSESSMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM AND AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM PARAMETERS IN YOUNG INDIVSDUALS WITH DIFFERENT BODY WEIGHT

Abstract

Weight gain and obesity as its consequence are one of the leading causes of cardiovascular diseases and increased mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess the parameters of the cardiovascular system and the autonomic nervous system in young individuals with different body weight. Materials and methods. This study involved 92 men and women aged from 18 to 25 years. We measured the anthropometric indicators including height, body weight, waist and hip circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio; calculated the body mass index and the percentage of body fat. According to the mass index values, the participants were divided into two groups: a control group involving 23 men and 23 women, and a group with overweight individuals (23 men and 23 women). The following cardiovascular parameters were determined: heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. We evaluated the energy potential of the cardiovascular system using the Robinson index, calculating pulse pressure, determining endurance coefficient. The assessment of the autonomic nervous system was based on using the Cerdo index. The findings obtained were then processed statistically. A comparative assessment has revealed a significant increase in the values of cardiovascular parameters among overweight young people. We have found out mainly positive correlations between anthropometric and cardiovascular system indicators, and the autonomic nervous system. The individuals of both groups showed an increase in endurance coefficient, which indicates a decrease in the level of physical performance. Overweight men demonstrated a growth in the Robinson index, which indicates the development of a deficiency in the functional capabilities of the cardiovascular system that, in the absence of a lifestyle change, may result in cardiovascular diseases.