RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Few studies have examined the effect of physical activity (PA) on subclinical atherosclerosis. Those that have been conducted were not based on longitudinal observation of lifestyle and objective measures of cardiorespiratory fitness. AIM: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of PA level on subclinical atherosclerosis in a long-term prospective observation (mean 17.9 +/- 4.21 years) of asymptomatic middle aged-men. METHODS: We studied 27 men with stable high PA level (mean age 57.1 +/- 6.6 years) and 27 pair matched controls with sedentary lifestyle (mean age 56.1 +/- 6.6 years). PA level was assessed by detailed questionnaire based on the CINDI Health Monitor Questionnaire. Objective measurements of aerobic capacity was evaluated by exercise tests. Subclinical atherosclerosis was measured by assessing coronary calcification score (CCS) according to Agatston's method by means of the multi-slice computed tomography. RESULTS: Mean CCS was significantly lower among highly active men than among sedentary controls (28.3 +/- 70.6 vs 211.4 +/- 344.9; respectively, p<0.02). Active men had also more often CCS=0 (15 vs 7 persons). Not even one case of advanced calcification (CCS > 400) was noted among active men. Additional analysis of the active men group revealed that persons with CCS=0 had significantly higher energy expenditure, PA volume and better aerobic capacity as compared to other active men, but with CCS>0. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term high PA may be associated with a lower risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic middle-aged men.
