New Aspects of Understanding Individual Magnetosensitivity to Geomagnetic Storms

Objective(s): The influence of geomagnetic storms (GMS) on humans has long been questioned. The aim of this study was to assess GMS influence on the functional cardiovascular parameters and human well-being depending on the presence of arterial hypertension, drug therapy and smoking status. Methods: The study participants (n=31) were analyzed for systolic blood pressure (SBP), vascular stiffness index (VSI), Baevsky stress index (BI) and other indicеs during quiet day and GMS day (K-index > 5). Well-being was assessed using a validated "САН" questionnaire (SAN). Results: During GMS, significant SBP decrease was noted among “not taking medications” (108.0 100.0;110.0 vs 103.5 98.0;110.0, p = 0.03), SBP increase was noted among “smokers” (120.0 120.0;130.0 vs 130.0 122.0;145.0, p = 0.06). VSI decrease was noted during GMS, but significant differences in VSI were obtained among persons without hypertension (2.5 -11.2;14.6 vs -5.3 -17.6;6.2, p = 0.04) and “non-smokers” (6.05 -8.85;13.5 vs 0.3 -10.2;6.9, p = 0.01). BI increase during GMS was obtained among hypertensive patients and “smokers”. The total SAN questionnaire score decreased during GMS, especially among persons without hypertension (173.0 159.0;178.0 vs 158.0 125.0;168.0, p = 0.03) and “not taking medications” (175.5 173.0;189.0 vs 157.5 156.0;162.0, p = 0.04). β-blockers and combined drug therapy had a protective effect on the prevention of SAN score decrease (RR 0.31 0.12;0.84 and RR 0.54 0.33;0.88). Conclusion: This study confirmed GMS influence on functional cardiovascular parameters and human well-being depending on the presence of arterial hypertension, drug therapy and smoking status. A protective effect of some drugs was noted on the manifestation of "magnetosensitivity" symptoms.