Exercise intervention as a protective modulator of dyslipidemia in men cigarette smokers

Abstract

Introduction. Tobacco smoking is a major avoidable cause of morbidity. Smoking is one of the important factors which can alter normal lipid profile and it is among the major risk factors in the genesis of coronary atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of high-intensity interval training on blood lipids and serum cotinine in Egyptian male smokers. Methods. overall, 30 sedentary male smokers with dyslipidaemia, with mean age of 30.16 ± 3.22 years, were enrolled in a highintensity interval training program calculated as 85-95% of their individualized maximum heart rate. The training program was applied for 30 minutes, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Serum cotinine, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels were measured before and after the intervention. Results. After the training program, a significant improvement (decrease) was observed in cotinine, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol (by 39.94%, 7.13%, 5.09%, and 4.72%, respectively). Also, there was a significant improvement (increase) in high-density lipoprotein (by 17.07%). Conclusions. it is recommended for smokers to participate in high-intensity interval training to improve their lipid profile and decrease cotinine. These factors can play a role in reducing the risk for atherosclerosis.