The dose-response association between reported moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity and atherogenic index of plasma: NHANES, 1999-2006

Abstract

Objective: Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), calculated as LOG10 (triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol), may be utilized to predict risk for cardiovascular disease. Physical activity has been shown to have a favorable association with triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol. The dose-response association between moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and AIP has yet to be determined in a nationally representative sample of US adults, which was the purpose of this study. Methods: Data from the 1999-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used (N = 6694 adults aged 20-85 y). Leisure-time physical activity over the previous 30 days was self-reported, whereas AIP was calculated from a venous blood sample. Multivariable linear and logistic regression tested the independent association between MVPA and AIP. Results: The authors observed a significant inverse, graded association between quantile of MVPA and the AIP (Ptrend < .001). Conclusion: Engaging in MVPA may attenuate the risk for cardiovascular disease via improvements in AIP. More longitudinal research is necessary to confirm these cross-sectional findings.