Influence of Lean Body Mass Index and Body Mass Index on Blood Pressure in Young Healthy Adults

Background: Body Mass Index (BMI) is widely used to assess obesity, yet it fails to distinguish between fat mass and lean body mass (LBM). Recent studies have shown that LBM, which represents metabolically active tissues, may have a different association with cardiovascular parameters compared to BMI. Objective: To evaluate the influence of LBM and BMI on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and rate pressure product (RPP) in young healthy adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 healthy volunteers (50 males, 50 females), aged 18–25 years. Anthropometric parameters (height, weight, BMI, and LBM) were recorded along with cardiovascular indices (SBP, DBP, HR, MAP, and RPP). LBM was calculated using validated regression equations specific for males and females. Results: BMI and LBM showed significant positive correlations with SBP and DBP. Participants with higher BMI demonstrated higher MAP and RPP, whereas LBM showed stronger correlation with SBP and HR than with BMI. Conclusion: Both BMI and LBM influence cardiovascular function, but LBM appears to be a better determinant of hemodynamic response and myocardial workload. Considering LBM alongside BMI provides a more accurate reflection of cardiovascular risk in young adults. Key words: Lean Body Mass, Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, Rate Pressure Product, Cardiovascular Risk