Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 22, 2026

Non-invasive Assessment of Microvascular and Endothelial Function
05:41

Non-invasive Assessment of Microvascular and Endothelial Function

Published on: January 29, 2013

Cold-induced elevation of forearm vascular resistance is inversely related to birth weight

S D Nichols1, M S Boyne, M Thame

  • 1Tropical Medicine Research Institute, University of the West Indies Mona, Kingston, Jamaica.

Journal of Human Hypertension
|February 11, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Lower birth weight in children is linked to increased vascular responsiveness, potentially explaining higher blood pressure later in life. This study investigated the connection between birth weight and blood vessel function in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Vascular Physiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Fetal growth retardation is associated with elevated adult blood pressure.
  • The link between birth weight and blood pressure is evident in childhood and intensifies with age.
  • Underlying mechanisms for this association remain largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between birth weight and forearm vascular resistance and blood flow in children.
  • To explore potential mechanisms linking fetal growth to later hypertension.

Main Methods:

  • Study included 58 children aged 9-12.7 years, randomly selected from a larger cohort with available birth records.
  • Forearm blood flow and vascular resistance were measured using venous occlusion plethysmography.
  • Measurements were taken at rest and during cold pressor and mental arithmetic stress tests.

Main Results:

  • A significant inverse correlation was found between birth weight and the change in vascular resistance during stress tests (cold pressor: r=-0.47; mental arithmetic: r=-0.26).
  • Lower birth weight was associated with increased vascular responsiveness to stress.
  • Each kg decrease in birth weight correlated with a significant increase in the stress-to-rest vascular resistance ratio.

Conclusions:

  • Lower birth weight is associated with heightened vascular responsiveness in children.
  • Increased vascular resistance may be a key mechanism connecting fetal growth restriction to subsequent elevated blood pressure.
  • Findings highlight the importance of fetal growth for long-term cardiovascular health.

More Related Videos

The 4-vessel Sampling Approach to Integrative Studies of Human Placental Physiology In Vivo12:17

The 4-vessel Sampling Approach to Integrative Studies of Human Placental Physiology In Vivo

Published on: August 2, 2017

Fetal Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging Using a High-frequency Ultrasound (30/45MHZ) System07:34

Fetal Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging Using a High-frequency Ultrasound (30/45MHZ) System

Published on: May 5, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Factors affecting Blood pressure01:28

Factors affecting Blood pressure

Several physiological and lifestyle factors influence blood pressure (BP). Understanding these factors is crucial as they are significant in patient education and blood pressure management.
Physiological Factors:
Sites for measuring blood pressure01:21

Sites for measuring blood pressure

Blood pressure measurement is a fundamental clinical procedure, providing crucial data for assessing cardiovascular health. Among the various sites for this measurement, the brachial and popliteal arteries are predominantly utilized due to their accessibility and the reliability of their readings. This lesson delves into the anatomical significance, methodology, and considerations of measuring blood pressure at these locations.
The Brachial Artery: Primary Site for Blood Pressure Measurement
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure01:28

Special considerations while measuring blood pressure

When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure01:10

Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure

Accurate blood pressure assessment is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. To ensure the reliability of these measurements, healthcare professionals must adhere to standardized pre-procedural guidelines. These guidelines enhance patient safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare. The following steps are essential for obtaining accurate and consistent blood pressure readings, from using the appropriate tools to ensuring effective communication with the patient.
Vascular Resistance01:20

Vascular Resistance

Vascular resistance is a critical concept in understanding blood flow dynamics in the circulatory system. It refers to the resistance that blood encounters as it flows through the blood vessels. This resistance is a key factor in determining blood pressure and cardiac workload.
The primary determinants of vascular resistance are vessel diameter, blood viscosity, and vessel length. Among these, vessel diameter plays the most significant role due to the fourth power relationship described by...
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation01:27

Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation

Palpation involves feeling the body to evaluate texture, size, consistency, and tenderness for assessing cardiovascular health. The following steps are organized in a head-to-toe order:
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above the...