Abstract

Background: Studies have found that individuals with a genetic risk of hypertension may show an abnormal blood pressure (BP) reaction to various stressors and varied exercise protocols. Thus, these individuals may show an abnormal BP reaction in their daily activities. A submaximal exercise test usually mimics dynamic daily activities. This study was done to understand the BP reaction to the treadmill test in these individuals during incremental submaximal exercise testing.

Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to compare BP reaction to treadmill test in healthy normotensive males with and without genetic risk of hypertension.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 healthy normotensive males between the age group of 35 and 45 years old took part in the study – fifty men with genetic risk of hypertension and 50 men without genetic risk of hypertension. The reaction of BP to exercise was done by treadmill test using submaximal Bruce protocol. The BP and pulse rate during rest, at the termination of each stage of the treadmill test, and during recovery were measured in each group. Data analysis was done using unpaired t-tests between the groups.

Results: The systolic and diastolic BP were significantly increased during each stage of the treadmill test and during recovery in normotensive men with genetic risk of hypertension (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Genetic risk of hypertension leads to increased BP reaction to exercise and during recovery in healthy normotensive males. Incremental exercise testing may have predictive value in recognizing individuals with a greater risk of developing systemic hypertension in the future.

Key words: Blood Pressure Reaction; Treadmill Test; Genetic Risk of Hypertension