Blood pressure in relation to body mass index among the monpa: altitudinal difference

Background and Objectives: Many studies have well documented that there is a positive association between body mass index and systolic blood pressure as well as body mass index and diastolic blood pressure. The present study examines body mass index and blood pressure in two Arunachal Monpa populations namely the Dirang (low altitude population) and Tawang (high altitude population) Monpa. Material and Methods: Healthy, 303 adult Dirang (Male: 146, Female: 157) and 472 Tawang (Male: 210, Female: 262) Monpa were randomly selected. The body mass index cut-off value for Asian people was considered as recommended by the WHO expert group (WHO 2000). While blood pressure values were classified according to the WHO expert committee (WHO 1996). Results: This study reveals a positive relationship between body mass index and blood pressure. Mean SBP and DBP both were considerably higher among the Dirang than that of the Tawang Monpa. Blood pressure values were correlated more with body mass index among the Tawang Monpa than their counterparts. Conclusion: Present study is indicative of altitudinal stresses on biological traits in highlander Tawang Monpas than that of the Dirang Monpas.