Seasonal variations in vascular endothelial function and physical activity in men

Abstract

Vascular endothelial function, which plays an important independent role in the onset of cardiovascular disease, often changes seasonally, with functional deterioration generally occurring during the winter. Physical activity is necessary for preventing cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, as it improves vascular endothelial and metabolic function; however, the amount of physical activity an individual gets also varies with the seasons. Changes in physical activity may induce seasonal variations in vascular endothelial function, although this hypothesis remains unconfirmed. An individual's sex can also affect their vascular endothelial function, habitual physical activity, and hormonal and metabolic function. Men have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to women; therefore, clarifying the impact of physical activity on vascular endothelial function and its seasonality is important for managing men's health. The purpose of this article is to review the association between seasonal variations in vascular endothelial function and physical activity in men.