Assessing the Relationship between Digit Ratio as a Marker for Prenatal Androgen Exposure and Different Blood Pressure Components among North Indian Males: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Digit ratio (2D:4D) has been associated with cardiovascular diseases using association with surrogate markers. Studies showing an association of digit ratio with cardiovascular parameters within normal limits are scarce. Aim: To explore the relation between different blood pressure components and digit ratio in normal young males within physiological range. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional pilot study, 25 apparently healthy male volunteers were included. Digit ratio (2D:4D) was measured. Body Mass Index (BMI) was estimated. Peripheral blood pressure, central aortic blood pressure and all four limb blood pressures were measured using periscope arterial health and cardiovascular analysis system. Blood pressure was measured using oscillometric method from all peripheral sites and estimated central aortic pressure by a validated transfer function. Pearson’s correlation studies were performed to assess any preliminary association. Two groups were formed of low and high digit ratio and Student’s t-test was performed to assess any significant difference between the groups. Results: Digit ratio of both hands correlated best with peripheral Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (Right 2D:4D r=0.43, p<0.05/Left 2D:4D r=0.40, p<0.05). No significant association observed for peripheral systolic pressure (p>0.05) and digit ratio of both hands. Significant association observed for all four limb blood pressure components and digit ratio. Pulse pressure components did not show any association with digit ratio. Significant difference of blood pressure components was observed when low and high digit ratio groups were compared. It was observed that blood pressure components were on higher side within the normal limits among the subjects with high digit ratio. Conclusion: Preliminary observations from this pilot study suggests that in normal young adult males digit ratio associate positively with different blood pressure components in normotensive males and has the potential to be used as a potent marker for early changes in cardiovascular diseases.