Asociación de la fuerza prensil y factores de riesgo cardiovascular en estudiantes sedentarios de una institución universitaria

Abstract

Objective. To estimate the association of grip strength and Cardio-Vascular Risk Factors (CVRF) in sedentary young population of a university institution. Materials and Methods. Transversal descriptive study that involved 498 subjects (N = 190 women; N = 308 men, mean age 20 ± 3 years). CVRF were defined by using the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program of the United States: waist circumference (WC) = 80 cm in women and 88 cm in men, systemic blood pressure = 130/85 mmHg, body mass index (BMI) = 26 kg + m-1 and adiposity estimated percentage of adiposity index = 25%. The grip strength was measured by hand dynamometry. Results. Individuals with higher levels of muscle strength shown lower values in markers of cardiovascular risk evaluated: blood pressure> 135/85 mmHg, waist circumference> 80 cm in women and 88 cm in men, BMI> 26 kg * min- 2 and adiposity> 25%. While, individuals with lower levels of grip strength showed higher prevalence risk factors. Conclusion. People who achieve higher values of grip strength by dynamometry, have lower prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. The encouragement of regular physical exercise is suggested, in order to improve fitness and prevent NCDs as a public health strategy.