Key result
Genetic factors account for ~50% of BP reactivity to mental stress.
Why the study?
The study aimed to examine possible genetic contributions to cardiovascular reactivity by comparing monozygotic and dizygotic adult male twins.
Does genetic variance contribute to cardiovascular reactivity (SBP, DBP, HR) during a mental arithmetic task in adult male twins?
Population
82 monozygotic and 88 dizygotic adult male twin pairs aged 21 to 61 years
Comparison
Cardiovascular measures during baseline vs mental arithmetic task
Design
Observational study of twin pairs
Authors
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Supports moderate heritability of blood pressure reactivity to mental stress; hypothesis-generating and should not yet change clinical practice.
Observational (n=340)
Does genetic variance contribute to cardiovascular reactivity (SBP, DBP, HR) during a mental arithmetic task in adult male twins?
Effect estimate: Heritability estimate of about 50%
The study suggests a moderate genetic contribution (approximately 50% heritability) to blood pressure reactivity under mental stress, but not to heart rate reactivity.
Smith et al. (1987) conducted an observational in Cardiovascular reactivity (n=340). Monozygotic twin status (genetic contribution) vs. Dizygotic twin status was evaluated on Heritability of systolic and diastolic blood pressure reactivity during a mental arithmetic task (Heritability estimate of about 50%). Genetic factors accounted for approximately 50% of the variance in systolic and diastolic blood pressure reactivity to a mental arithmetic task in adult male twins.
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