Cardiovascular Autonomic Function Tests in an African Population
Author Information
Author(s): Torsvik Malvin, Häggblom Amanda, Eide Geir Egil, Schmutzhard Erich, Vetvik Kaare, Winkler Andrea Sylvia
Primary Institution: Faculty of Health, Nord Trondelag University College, Steinkjer, Norway
Hypothesis
The study aimed to establish cut-off values for cardiovascular autonomic function tests suitable for resource-poor settings in an African population.
Conclusion
The study found that the cut-off values for cardiovascular autonomic function tests differ from those established in Caucasian populations.
Supporting Evidence
- Diabetes mellitus is increasingly common in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Autonomic dysfunction contributes to morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients.
- Data on autonomic dysfunction in the African population is scarce.
- The study established cut-off values for five cardiovascular autonomic function tests.
Takeaway
The researchers tested heart and blood pressure responses in healthy Africans to find normal values for simple tests that can help diagnose diabetes-related nerve problems.
Methodology
The study involved five cardiovascular autonomic function tests conducted on 276 healthy participants, with cut-off values calculated based on age and gender.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the selection of participants and the exclusion criteria used.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific population and may not be generalizable to all Africans.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 156 men and 120 women, aged 20 to 76 years, from four ethnic groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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