Correlation between Anthropometric Indices and hemodynamic parameters along with ECG Among Medical Students.

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between anthropometric indices and electrocardiographic (ECG) variations among 280 medical students at Delhi University. Participants were categorized into normal-weight (BMI < 25 kg/m²) and overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) groups. Blood pressure parameters revealed statistically significant elevations in the overweight/obese group. In males, the mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 145.32 mmHg, significantly higher than 124.85 mmHg in the normal-weight group, with a p-value of <0.001. Similarly, the mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was 92.78 mmHg compared to 78.62 mmHg, with a p-value of <0.001. Females showed a comparable trend, with SBP at 139.25 mmHg versus 121.47 mmHg (p<0.001) and DBP at 89.89 mmHg versus 74.56 mmHg (p<0.001). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was significantly elevated in both genders, registering 115.63 mmHg for males and 110.12 mmHg for females in the overweight/obese group, compared to 93.72 mmHg and 88.54 mmHg, respectively, in the normal-weight group (p<0.001). Pulse pressure, a marker of arterial stiffness, was also significantly higher (58.21 mmHg for males and 54.12 mmHg for females, p<0.001), reflecting increased cardiovascular strain in individuals with higher BMI.  Gender differences were notable, with more males in the overweight/obese category. Although height showed no direct correlation with BMI, shorter participants experienced greater cardiovascular load. This study emphasizes that elevated BMI in young adults affect cardiovascular structure, function, and electrical activity, increasing long-term health risks. Early interventions and personalized health strategies targeting weight management and cardiovascular monitoring are essential to mitigate these effects and promote heart health.

Keywords: Obesity, BMI, Metabolic Diseases, Cardiovascular Dysfunction, Blood Pressure, ECG.