EFFECT OF HAEMOGLOBIN GENOTYPE ON EXERCISE TOLERANCE AMONG BINGHAM UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

Haemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood, can vary in structure due to genetic factors, such as those associated with sickle cell trait or thalassemia. This variability can influence an individual's ability to tolerate exercise, as different hemoglobin genotypes may impact oxygen delivery to muscles during physical activity. This study was designed to investigate the effect of haemoglobin genotype on exercise tolerance among students of Bingham University, Nigeria. A total of 120 Bingham University students, encompassing both genders and aged between 16-26, were used in the study. Questionnaires were administered to check indices such as their age, sex, height, weight, haemoglobin genotype, exercise habits and health history. The values of some physiological parameters: heart rate, respiratory rate, peak flow expiratory rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure of the subjects were checked before using the treadmill, immediately after the treadmill and 5 minutes after using the treadmill. The results obtained revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increased in all the physiological parameters among all the haemoglobin genotypes (AA, AS and SS) immediately after exercise and 5 minutes after exercise compared to before exercise. There was also a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase in heart rate and respiratory rate immediately after exercise and five minutes after exercise in subjects with haemoglobin genotype AS and SS compared to individuals with AA haemoglobin genotype. The increased heart rate and respiratory rate occur due to significantly impaired oxygen delivery caused by the sickling of red blood cells, which blocks capillaries and reduce blood flow. In conclusion, haemoglobin genetic variations play a significant role in determining individual differences in physical performance, endurance, and response to training.