Association of arterial wall stiffness with cardiovascular risk factors

Objective. To assess relation between central blood pressure and arterial stiffness with cardiovascular risk factors. Design and methods. 116 subjects considering themselves healthy were examined. 63 showed blood pressure elevation. Anthropometry was performed and fasting blood specimens were obtained from all patients. Plasma glucose and lipids levels were measured. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AI) were measured by Sphygmocor Px device (Australia). Results. Parameters of arterial stiffness were strongly associated with hypertension, increased waist circumference, age, cholesterol level, and metaboloc syndrome. Females had higher AI as compared to males. Conclusion. Central blood pressure and arterial stiffness are determined not only by age and peripheral blood pressure but by cholesterol level and anthropometric parameters as well.