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Evaluation of Left Ventricular Structure and Function using 3D Echocardiography
Published on: October 28, 2020
Left ventricular mass, abdominal circumference and age: the Fels longitudinal study
W C Chumlea1, C M Schubert, B Towne
1Departments of Community Health and Pediatrics, Lifespan Health Research Center, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45420, 937-775-1428, USA. cameron.chumlea@wright.edu.
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging
|October 9, 2009
Summary
Abdominal circumference and BMI are linked to increased left ventricular mass (LVM) in adults. This study highlights how body composition impacts heart health across different ages, especially in older individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Human Physiology
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Left ventricular mass (LVM) is a key indicator of cardiovascular health.
- Abdominal obesity and overall body mass index (BMI) are associated with cardiovascular risk.
- Understanding these relationships across the lifespan is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between abdominal circumference and increased left ventricular mass (LVM).
- To examine this relationship across a wide age range, from young adulthood to old age.
- To differentiate the impact of abdominal fatness versus overall fatness on LVM.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional echocardiographic data from 182 men and 220 women (ages 20-75) were analyzed.
- Left ventricular mass was indexed to stature (LVM/ht2.7) to adjust for body size.
- Regression models assessed relationships between age, abdominal circumference, BMI, physical activity, and LVM/ht2.7.
Main Results:
- Both age, abdominal circumference, and BMI showed significant positive associations with LVM/ht2.7 in men and women.
- In men, a significant curvilinear association was found between abdominal circumference and LVM/ht2.7.
- In women, BMI had a stronger association with LVM/ht2.7 than abdominal circumference.
Conclusions:
- Abdominal fatness and overall fatness are linked to increased LVM across adulthood.
- The relationship between abdominal circumference and LVM is complex in men, potentially involving muscle mass.
- Further research is needed on BMI's limitations in assessing cardiovascular risk in the elderly.
