Attenuation of exaggerated exercise blood pressure response in African-American women by regular aerobic physical activity

INTRODUCTION

A hyperreactive blood pressure response to exercise is a predictor of developing hypertension. The present study determined the influence of physical activity on an exaggerated exercise blood pressure response (EEBPR) in normotensive African-American women.

METHODS

We screened 36 women 18-26 years of age for EEBPR defined as a > or = 50 mm Hg difference in systolic blood pressure at rest and during exercise at 50% peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak). Seven subjects demonstrated an EEBPR and participated in the study. Study participants trained for eight weeks on a bicycle ergometer at a work intensity of 70% VO2peak. Blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), and total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR) were determined at baseline and during submaximal exercise at power outputs of 30 W and 50% VO2peak. Subjects served as their own controls, and data were evaluated by using a paired t test at P<.05.

RESULTS

Effectiveness of the intervention was shown by a significantly greater VO2peak associated with significant decrements in systolic and mean arterial pressures at power outputs of 30 W and 50% VO2peak. A significant decrement in heart rate was observed during exercise at 30 W. Significant increments in CO and SV and decrement in TPR were found during exercise at 50% VO2peak.

CONCLUSION

The reduction in TPR associated with regular aerobic physical activity may attenuate the EEBPR and decrease the risk for hypertension in normotensive, young-adult, African-American women.