Pulse wave velocity as a marker of arteriosclerosis and its comorbidities in Chinese patients

Xiao-Ning Liu1, Hai-Qing Gao, Bao-Ying Li

  • 1Department of Geriatrics, Qi-Lu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.

Insights

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) effectively identifies arteriosclerosis in Chinese patients with hypertension or type 2 diabetes. This non-invasive measure aids in early detection of vascular disease, improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Epidemiology
  • Vascular Biology

Background:

  • Arteriosclerosis is a significant health concern, particularly in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.
  • Understanding the epidemiology of arteriosclerosis and its comorbidities in diverse populations is crucial for public health.
  • Hypertension (HP), coronary heart disease (CHD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and stroke are major comorbidities associated with arteriosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the clinical significance of pulse wave velocity (PWV) as an indicator of arteriosclerosis.
  • To determine the prevalence of large artery arteriosclerosis in Chinese patients with cardiovascular risk factors.
  • To identify risk factors associated with arteriosclerosis in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 910 subjects (748 patients with risk factors, 162 healthy volunteers) was conducted.
  • Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured, with PWV >= 12 m/s defining large artery arteriosclerosis.
  • Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of large artery arteriosclerosis was 67.4% in the patient group.
  • Prevalence was significantly higher in patients with hypertension (OR: 3.451) and T2DM (OR: 2.854).
  • Female sex, older age, hypertension, and T2DM were identified as independent risk factors for arteriosclerosis.

Conclusions:

  • Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a valuable tool for routine screening of arteriosclerosis.
  • PWV is particularly relevant for patients with hypertension or type 2 diabetes.
  • Early detection and management of arteriosclerosis can help mitigate associated comorbidities.

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