BODY MASS INDEX AND RISK OF POOR CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: A POSITIVE ASSOCIATION

Abstract

Study Aims: Epidemiological evidence on body mass index (BMI) and non-invasive cardiovascular parameters remains limited and inconsistent. To strengthen prevention and control efforts, we investigated the associations between BMI, including overweight and obesity, and non-invasive cardiovascular parameters, as well as their dose–response relationships, in adults from the Appalachian region of North Carolina.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 71 participants were included. Non-invasive cardiovascular parameters assessed were pulse wave velocity (arterial stiffness), augmentation index standardized at 75 bpm (peripheral arterial stiffness), ejection time (left ventricular performance), and Buckberg index (coronary microvascular circulation). Associations were analyzed using logistic regression models.

Results: Each 1-unit (kg/m²) increase in BMI was associated with a 25% statistically significant increase in multivariable-adjusted odds of higher arterial stiffness (OR=1.25; 95% CI: 1.04-1.51), a 31% in higher peripheral arterial stiffness, a 23% in worse left ventricular performance, and a 25% in worse coronary microvascular circulation. Overweight/obesity was associated with a 532% statistically significant increase in the odds of higher arterial stiffness (OR=6.32; 95% CI:1.42-28.09) and a 704% increase in the odds of worse left ventricular performance after the adjustment of age, sex, physical activity, and body fat percentage.

Conclusions: Higher BMI, particularly overweight and obesity, was significantly associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular health as measured by non-invasive cardiovascular parameters. Targeted efforts to reduce overweight and obesity are needed to improve cardiovascular outcomes in North Carolina, especially within Appalachian populations.