Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026
Fetal Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging Using a High-frequency Ultrasound 30/45MHZ System
Published on: May 5, 2018
Exercise-induced cardiac fatigue in low and normal birth weight young black adults
Jephat Chifamba1, Chidochashe Mapfumo1, Dorcas W Mawoneke2
11Department of Physiology,University of Zimbabwe,College of Health Sciences,Mount Pleasant,Harare,Zimbabwe.
Insights
Low birth weight is linked to greater exercise-induced diastolic dysfunction in young adults. This study found that individuals with low birth weight experienced more significant decreases in cardiac function after prolonged exercise compared to normal birth weight peers.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Low birth weight (LBW) is a global health concern with potential long-term cardiovascular implications.
- Diastolic function, assessed by the E/A ratio, is a critical indicator of cardiac health.
- The impact of exercise on diastolic function in LBW individuals remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the exercise-induced changes in diastolic function (E/A ratio) between low birth weight (LBW) and normal birth weight (NBW) young adults.
- To investigate the association between LBW and exercise-induced cardiac fatigue.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 23 university students with documented birth weights.
- Echocardiographic measurements of diastolic function (E/A ratio) were taken before and after 75 minutes of treadmill exercise.
- Statistical analyses included t-tests and chi-squared tests to compare groups and assess associations.
Main Results:
- Individuals with LBW (<2500 g) exhibited significantly greater decreases in diastolic function (E/A ratio) post-exercise compared to NBW individuals (0.48±0.27 vs. 0.19±0.18, p<0.05).
- A significant association was found between LBW and exercise-induced cardiac fatigue (p<0.05, OR=4.64).
Conclusions:
- Low birth weight is associated with exercise-induced diastolic dysfunction in young adults.
- LBW may predispose individuals to impaired cardiac response during prolonged physical exertion.
- Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and long-term consequences.
Abstract:
The objective of the study was to compare the change in diastolic function, E/A ratio, in response to prolonged exercise in low birth weight and normal birth weight individuals. Using a case-control study design, 23 students of the University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences who had neonatal clinic cards as proof of birth weight were recruited into the study. Measurements of diastolic function, E/A ratio, were obtained using an echocardiogram before and after 75 minutes of exercise. Among the cohort, seven had low birth weight - <2500 g, three female patients and four male patients - and 16 had normal birth weight - six female patients and 10 male patients). The mean age was 20.7±3.3 years. After prolonged exercise for 75 minutes of running on a treadmill, decreases in diastolic function, E/A ratio, were significantly greater in low birth weight than in normal birth weight individuals (0.48±0.27 versus 0.19±0.18 p<0.05, respectively). There was a significant association between low birth weight and exercise-induced cardiac fatigue (the χ2 test p<0.05, odds ratio 4.64, 95% confidence interval 1.19-18.1). We conclude that low birth weight is associated with exercise-induced diastolic dysfunction in young adults.
More Related Videos
07:40Impact of High-intensity Interval Exercise and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Exercise on the Cardiac Troponin T Level at an Early Stage of Training
Published on: October 10, 2019
06:00Determining The Electromyographic Fatigue Threshold Following a Single Visit Exercise Test
Published on: July 27, 2015
Related Concept Videos
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:19Cardiac Output I:Effect of Heart Rate on Cardiac Output
Cardiac output (CO) refers to the total amount of blood ejected by one of the ventricles in liters per minute (L/min). In a resting adult, CO ranges from 5 to 6 L/min, adjusting according to the body's metabolic requirements.
Effect of Heart Rate on Cardiac Output
Cardiac output adapts to metabolic demands during stress, physical activity, or illness. The autonomic nervous system regulates heart rate via the sinoatrial node. The parasympathetic nervous system decreases heart...
01:26Imbalances in Cardiac Output
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send...
01:26Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
01:29Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance