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Gender differences in large artery stiffness pre- and post puberty
Anna A Ahimastos1, Melissa Formosa, Anthony M Dart
1Alfred and Baker Medical Unit, Baker Heart Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 8008 Australia.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|November 7, 2003
Summary
Large artery stiffening shows gender differences from childhood, influenced by sex steroids. Females develop more flexible arteries post-puberty, while males develop stiffer vessels, equalizing stiffness between sexes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
Background:
- Age-related large artery stiffening is more pronounced in women, contributing to isolated systolic hypertension.
- Existing research suggests potential gender-based differences in arterial properties from a young age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if gender differences in large artery stiffening are inherent or influenced by sex steroids.
- To compare arterial stiffness in prepubertal and postpubertal males and females.
Main Methods:
- Assessed large artery stiffness using systemic arterial compliance and pulse wave velocity in healthy children.
- Studied two age groups: prepubertal (approx. 10 years) and postpubertal (approx. 15 years).
Main Results:
- Prepubertal females had stiffer arteries and higher pulse pressure than males.
- Postpubertal females showed increased arterial distensibility, while males exhibited increased stiffness.
- Central large artery stiffness became similar between genders post-puberty.
Conclusions:
- Large artery stiffness exhibits intrinsic gender variations.
- Sex steroids play a significant role in modulating arterial stiffness differently in males and females during puberty.
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