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Background and objectives: Physical activity has long been considered as the cornerstone of interventions for reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Homocysteine and obesity indices are important indicators of CVD risk. The present research aimed to evaluate homocysteine and obesity variables in female CVD patients and healthy counterparts with different physical activity levels.
Methods: This study was carried out on 85 CVD patients (40-55 yr, n=41, 60-75 yr, n=44) and 80 healthy women (40-50 yr, n=40, 60-75 yr, n=40). Subjects were divided into three groups based on their physical activity level: sedentary, moderately active and active. Serum homocysteine, body roundness index (BRI), a body shape index (ABSI), body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were measured. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test and one-way ANOVA.
Results: Physically active middle-aged CVD patients had significantly lower BRI (p=0.022) and homocysteine (p=0.008) levels compared with the sedentary counterparts. In addition, physically-active old CVD patients had significantly lower BRI (p=0.041), ABSI (p=0.011) and homocysteine (p=0.001) compared with the sedentary counterparts. Physically-active healthy middle-aged individuals had significantly lower BRI (p=0.013) and BMI (p=0.008) levels compared with sedentary counterparts. Active elderly subjects also had significantly lower BRI (p=0.001) and WC (p=0.008) compared with the sedentary counterparts.
Conclusion: Physical activity can reduce the risk of CVD and improve health status of women by reducing homocysteine, BRI and ABSI.