Physical activity and favourable adiposity genetic liability reduce the risk of hypertension among high body mass individuals

Abstract

Objective: Hypertension is a global health issue, and the risk factors include genetics, physical inactivity, and excess body fat (adiposity). Genetic predisposition to adiposity generally increases risk of hypertension. Several genetic variants have been identified to increase adiposity but unexpectedly reduce hypertension (favourable adiposity genes). Here, we tested the effect of these genetic variants on risk of hypertension in European ancestry participants under various scenarios of physical activity and body mass index.

Design and method: Favourable adiposity genetic liability was estimated using previously identified genetic variants and their effect sizes. The study analysed data from 230,027 unrelated participants in the UK Biobank. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between this genetic liability and hypertension (defined as systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 90 mmHg, or the use of anti-hypertensive medications). The analyses were conducted separately based on physical activity status (physically active and inactive) within low and high body mass groups.

Results: Individuals with high body mass, could reduce their risk of hypertension by up to 16% depending on the favourable adiposity genetic liability and physical activity status (P adjusted = 1.32 x10-8). In high body mass individuals, physical activity alone contributes to 6-9% reduction in risk of hypertension.

Conclusions: The study provides evidence that the protective effect of favourable adiposity on hypertension risk varies according to body mass composition and physical activity status.