Correlation between the duration of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and the atherogenic index of plasma

Abstract

To investigate the relationship between the duration of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and the atherogenic index of plasma(AIP) in middle-aged men, in order to provide evidence to formulate strategies for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 27, 827 middle-aged Chinese men who underwent health examinations at our hospital between January, 2014 and June, 2015. The correlation between the duration of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and AIP was analyzed. Results The mean AIP levels were(0.1166±0.3448), (0.1167±0.3264), and(0.0765±0.3287) in the <1 min/week group, 1-89 min/week group, and ≥90 min/week group, respectively. AIP levels were higher in the <1 min/W group and 1-89min/W group than in the ≥90 min/W group(both P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that physical activity significantly reduced AIP after adjustment for age, body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and uric acid levels. The percentage of the population at high risk for atherosclerosis(AIP ≥ 0.21) was significantly lower in the ≥90 min/W group than in the<1 min/W group and 1-89 min/W group(both P<0.05), while no significant difference was found between the <1min/W group and 1-89min/W group. Conclusions The duration of aerobic exercise has a close relationship with AIP. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at a weekly duration of 90 min or longer offers cardiovascular health benefits and reduces the risk for atherosclerosis. Key words: Exercise; Atherosclerosis