The cardiovascular autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis and alterations in its functions have been associated with various pathological conditions. Although, smoking is a well‐established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the specific impact of smoking on cardiovascular autonomic functions remains uncertain. This study aimed to examine the effect of smoking on cardiovascular autonomic functions. A total of 200 participants, including both smokers and non‐smokers, were recruited for this study. The participants underwent a comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular autonomic functions using a battery of standardized tests, such as heart rate variability analysis, blood pressure response to postural changes and baroreflex sensitivity assessment. The collected data were then compared between the smoking and non‐smoking groups to assess the influence of smoking on cardiovascular autonomic functions. The study's preliminary findings indicate significant differences in cardiovascular autonomic function parameters between smokers and non‐smokers. Smokers exhibited reduced heart rate variability, impaired blood pressure response to postural changes and decreased baroreflex sensitivity compared to non‐smokers. These findings suggest compromised cardiovascular autonomic regulation in smokers, which may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with smoking. Further analyses were conducted to investigate the associations between smoking duration, intensity and the extent of changes observed in cardiovascular autonomic functions. Additionally, the study explores the impact of smoking cessation on the restoration of cardiovascular autonomic functions. The results provide valuable insights into the detrimental effects of smoking on the cardiovascular autonomic nervous system and have implications for developing targeted interventions for individuals at risk. This study highlights the adverse effects of smoking on cardiovascular autonomic functions. By elucidating the specific alterations caused by smoking, it establishes a foundation for understanding the underlying mechanisms linking smoking to cardiovascular disease. Ultimately, these findings have the potential to inform clinical strategies aimed at preventing and managing cardiovascular complications associated with smoking.
Aruna Bhavane, Sunita Kalyanshetti and Anjana Bellad. Effect of Smoking on the Cardiovascular Autonomic Functions in North Karnataka: A Cross Sectional Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.234.237
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.234.237