Correlation between Serum Triglyceride and Heart Rate Variability Indices Among Prehypertensives of Southern Tamilnadu

Abstract

Objective: Prehypertension is an early stage of hypertension associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Serum triglycerides (TG) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) are established markers of cardiovascular health. However, the relationship between these variables in prehypertensive individuals remains unexplored, particularly in regional populations such as those from Southern Tamil Nadu. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum triglyceride levels and heart rate variability indices among prehypertensive individuals in Southern Tamil Nadu.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 160 prehypertensive and 160 normotensive of the age group 30 – 45 years of both genders. Serum triglyceride levels were measured using standard enzymatic assays. Short term HRV was assessed and indices such as the Standard Deviation of NN Intervals (SDNN), Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD), and Low-to-High Frequency ratio (LF/HF ratio) were analyzed. Statistical analysis was done using Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results: Preliminary findings indicate a significant positive correlation between serum triglyceride levels and HRV indices, particularly LF/HF ratio. Higher serum triglyceride levels were associated with increased LF/HF ratio, suggesting impaired autonomic regulation.

Conclusion: Elevated serum triglyceride levels are correlated with increased LF/HF ratio in prehypertensive individuals, highlighting potential metabolic and autonomic dysfunction in this population. These findings underscore the need for early intervention strategies targeting both lipid profiles and autonomic function to mitigate cardiovascular risk in prehypertensive patients.