Low physical activity and high homocysteine levels among doctors

Abstract

Background Homocysteine is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Less is known about the influence of physical activity in homocysteine levels. The aim of our study is to find out the prevalence of high homocysteine levels and low physical activity among doctors and the relationship between them. Methods The study included 101 doctors working in a tertiary care hospital in India. Pregnant women and individuals with a known history of cardiovascular and/or cerebrovascular diseases were excluded. The main outcome variables measured were plasma total homocysteine and physical activity, using GPAQ (Global Physical Activity Questionnaire). Results Prevalence of a high homocysteine level (?15?/l) was 34.7% and the prevalence of low physical activity (<600 MET minutes/week) was 25.7 % in our study population. High homocysteine values were associated with male sex (p=0.00) and smoking (p=0.003). Homocysteine was significantly associated with low physical activity (MET minutes/week) adjusting for age, sex and smoking status (p<0.05). There was no significant association between homocysteine and physical activity with FBS, HbA1c and Lipid Profile. Conclusion Homocysteine level is inversely related to physical activity. Hyperhomocysteinemia is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease. From a public health viewpoint, it is important to identify the modifiable risk factors that influence homocysteine levels.

Keywords

• Homocysteine, Physical activity, Sedentary lifestyle, Cardiovascular risk, Doctors, Workplace, GPAQ