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Strenuous exercise, plasma fibrinogen, and factor VII activity.
J B Connelly1, J A Cooper, T W Meade
1Medical Research Council Epidemiology and Medical Care Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Medical College of St Bartholomew's Hospital, London.
British Heart Journal
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Strenuous physical activity significantly lowers plasma fibrinogen and factor VII activity, reducing the risk of ischaemic heart disease. This highlights exercise as a key preventative measure for heart health.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Exercise Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) poses a significant global health burden.
- Plasma fibrinogen and factor VII activity are established risk factors for IHD.
- The role of physical activity in modulating these specific risk factors requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of physical activity intensity and frequency on plasma fibrinogen and factor VII activity.
- To assess the potential of physical activity in mitigating IHD risk through these biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey involving 3967 men aged 45-69.
- Data collected via structured interviews on physical exercise and clinical measurements of fibrinogen, factor VII activity, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Main Results:
- Strenuous exercise correlated with significantly lower fibrinogen levels (approx. 15% lower IHD risk).
- Strenuous exercise was also linked to lower cholesterol concentrations.
- Increased frequency of strenuous exercise was associated with reduced factor VII activity.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity, particularly strenuous exercise, influences key biomarkers associated with IHD risk.
- Modulation of fibrinogen and factor VII activity by exercise offers a potential pathway for IHD prevention.
- Findings support exercise as a valuable preventative strategy for individuals at risk of IHD, especially those with elevated fibrinogen.