Relationship of depressive symptoms with autonomic cardiac modulation in adults: effects of different domains and intensities of habitual physical activity

Abstract

Depression is one of the main causes of disability worldwide. Depressive symptoms have been associated with less heart rate variability, and consequently low capacity for cardiovascular adaptation. However, it is not known whether the relationship between depressive symptoms and cardiac modulation differs according to the practice of habitual physical activity in different domains and different intensities, as well as whether there is a domain or intensity of physical activity that exerts the greatest influence on this relationship. Objective: To investigate the relationship between depressive symptoms and cardiac modulation in adults and the role of different domains and intensities of physical activity in this relationship. Methods: This is an epidemiological study with a cross-sectional design in the city of Santo Anastácio/SP, with a sample selected in a randomized and representative process. The symptoms of depression will be assessed using the HADS scale (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). The practice of physical activity at different intensities will be assessed by the Actigraph WGT3X-BT accelerometer and in different domains using the Baecke questionnaire for habitual physical activity. Cardiac autonomic modulation will be assessed by the V800 cardiac monitor. For statistical analysis, correlation and linear regression models will be used to observe the relationship between depression symptoms and cardiac modulation, subsequently, mediation analyzes to assess whether different intensities, and domains influence the possible negative relationship of heart rate variability, with depressive symptoms adjusted for possible confounding variables (gender, age, body mass index and socioeconomic status). (AU)