Geomagnetic disturbances reduce heart rate variability in the Normative Aging Study

Authors: Carolina L. Zilli Vieira, Kelly Chen, Eric Garshick, Man Liu, Pantel Vokonas, Petter Ljungman, Joel Schwartz, Petros Koutrakis

Year: 09/15/2022

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Science of The Total Environment

Institution: Normative Aging Study (Greater Boston Area)

DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156235

URL: https://bit.ly/GMDhrv

Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

The study investigates the relationship between geomagnetic activity (GA), intense geomagnetic disturbances (GMD), and heart rate variability (HRV) among elderly males participating in the Normative Aging Study.

Details on Methodology

  • Mixed-effects regression models were employed to assess HRV.
  • Analysis involved reviewing data on the global planetary K-Index (Kp) to measure GA and GMD levels.
  • The study sample consisted of 809 elderly men with an average age of 74.5 years from the Greater Boston Area.

Key Findings

  • High Kp values correlated significantly with reduced HRV.
  • The strongest reductions in HRV were observed in patients with coronary heart diseases (CHD) and no diabetes during intense geomagnetic disturbances.
  • Results uphold even after adjusting for exposure to air pollutants.

Conclusion

This research underscores potential cardiovascular risks associated with geomagnetic disturbances and their stronger effects in individuals with specific health conditions, suggesting the need for tailored preventive measures in susceptible populations.

geomagnetic disturbances heart rate variability cardiovascular disease elderly health epidemiologic study
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