Stairs instead of elevators at the workplace decreases PCSK 9 levels in a healthy population

Backgound Regular physical activity is recommended to lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ( LDL ‐C) in a healthy population. Inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 ( PCSK 9) was shown to reduce ( LDL ‐C) levels; however, the impact of physical exercise on PCSK 9 levels remains unclear. Materials and methods We used data from 67 healthy hospital employees who participated in a 6‐month intervention promoting active use of stairs instead of elevators during 3 months, followed by 3 months without recommendation. We confirmed the degree of physical activity with estimated aerobic capacity ( VO 2 max ) and measured serum PCSK 9 levels at baseline, 3 and 6 month. Using a multilevel regression model, we analysed changes of PCSK 9 levels over time adjusting for age, gender, aerobic capacity, baseline LDL ‐C, and LDL ‐C and body mass index ( BMI ) changes. Results At baseline, PCSK 9 levels were associated with higher aerobic capacity ( P ‐value = 0·024). At 3 months, we observed a significant decrease in mean PCSK 9 levels from 403·6 to 324·3 ng/mL ( P ‐value = 0·001), as well a significant decrease in mean LDL ‐C levels from 3·5 to 3·3 mM ( P ‐value = 0·01). During this period, mean aerobic capacity ( VO 2 max ) increased from 37·0 to 40·4 mL/kg/min ( P ‐value < 0·001). Physical activity was independently associated with a decrease in PCSK 9 levels after adjustment for age, gender, baseline aerobic capacity, and LDL ‐C and BMI changes. Conclusion Daily physical activity at the work place is independently associated with a decrease in PCSK 9 levels over time.