Phase angle as an indicator of cardiovascular risk in university students

Abstract

Introduction: The phase angle is currently used as an indicator of the nutritional status of adults and a prognostic marker of the presence and progression of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases. Objective: To determine the association between phase angle and cardiovascular risk indicators in university students. Method: Correlational cross-sectional study. Thirty university students (age 22.1 ± 2 years, weight 65.6 ± 10.3 kg) were evaluated through IPAQ (short version), baseline glucometry, body composition using electrical bioimpedance with the Inbody® reference instrument 770, prehensile force, Bosco battery (Optogait®), indirect oxygen consumption (Leger test). Results: A mean phase angle 6.4 ± 0.66 was found, with a moderate correlation between lean trunk mass (0.68; p =0.05), basal metabolic rate (0.64; p = 0.009), fitness level (0.71; p = 0.003), Counter Movement Jump (0.56; p = 0.028) and phase angle. Women have a correlation between waist and hip ratio (r = 0.74; p = 0.034). Conclusions: The angle proved to be a predictive indicator of cardiovascular risk in young adult population, also allowed a more accurate view of the predisposition and potential for cardiovascular disease.