Evaluation of heart rate recovery index in heavy smokers

Abstract

Objective:Cigarette smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular events. The heart rate recovery index (HRRI) is an indicator of autonomous nervous system function and is an independent prognostic risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to evaluate HRRI in heavy smokers.Methods:A total of 179 apparently healthy subjects (67 non-smokers as the control group and 112 heavy smokers) were enrolled into this prospective cross-sectional study. The presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and known cardiac or non-cardiac diseases was specified as the exclusion criteria. Heavy cigarette smoking was defined as the consumption of more than one packet of cigarette per day. All subjects underwent the maximal Bruce treadmill test. HRRIs of the heavy cigarette smoker group at 1, 2, 3, and 5 min after maximal exercise were calculated and compared to those of the control group. Student t-test, chi-square test, and analysis of covariance were used for statistical analysis.Results:The baseline characteristics of the two groups were similar, except for body mass index and high-density lipoprotein level. HRRIs at 1, 2, 3, and 5 min after maximal exercise were found to be significantly lower in the heavy smoker group (HRRI1: 26.78±8.81 vs. 32.82±10.34, p<0.001; HRRI2: 44.37±12.11 vs. 51.72±12.87, p<0.001; HRRI3: 52.73±11.54 vs. 57.22±13.51, p=0.018; and HRRI5: 58.31±10.90 vs. 62.33±13.02, p=0.029).Conclusions:In the present study, we found that HRRI was impaired in heavy smokers. Our results suggest that beside previously known untoward effects on vascular biology, heavy smoking also has deleterious effects on the neuro–cardiovascular system.

Comparison of heart rate response and heart rate recovery after step test among smoker and non-smoker athletes

“… 13 , 18 , 19 Smokers had significant (p<0.05) 5bpm higher heart rate recovery than non-smokers. Also, the results of Erat et al 10 study showed that the heart rate recovery at the first minute after the exercise test in rest was higher in smokers by 6bpm than non-smokers. Sydo et al (2018) 11 reported that there was a significant difference in heart rate peak between smokers and non-smoker group, by 7 bpm.…”

The Physical Fitness Level, Heart Rate, and Heart Rate Recovery among Adolescent Smokers and Non-smokers

“…In general, the HRR1 in both groups shows decreased HR in 60 s after test with mean ± SD 1.83±0.89 for adolescent smokers and 1.99±1.72 for adolescent non-smokers [ Table 2]. In contrast to Erat et al [20], who stated that HRR1 in smokers delayed. However, in this study, the participants still linier with the theory that HRR decreased within the minutes after exercise [21].…”

“…It acts as an indicator for ANS dysfunction [17]; HRR can be used as the guide to monitor the physical fitness [18]. Since cigarette contents cause the cardiovascular dysfunction, then it can influence the HRR [19], [20]. Furthermore, the HRR in smokers is delayed compared to healthy people [21].…”

Association between heart rate recovery after exercise and renal function in patients referred for treadmill exercise test

“…Smoking can also induce autonomic dysfunction. Heavy smoking could impair heart rate variability, heart rate turbulence [37], and HRR [38]. The CARDIA cohort study with 2,730 participants followed for a period of 20 years revealed that current smoking, in addition, to a higher body mass index, larger waist, low education, and fasting glucose level were significant factors independently associated with incident slow HRR [6].…”