An association between decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate and arterial stiffness

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem, but there is controversy over whether or not CKD is an independent risk factor for peripheral arterial stiffness in community residents.

We randomly recruited 107 men, aged 68+/-9 (mean +/- standard deviation) years, and 203 women, aged 67+/-7 years during their annual health examination in a single community. Study subjects did not have a clinical history of cerebrovascular disease or current neurological abnormalities. Peripheral arterial stiffness was evaluated by mean pulse wave velocity (PWV) determined at three points: from heart to the carotid artery, to the brachial artery, and to the ankle, and CKD was evaluated by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group equation.

Estimated GFR was significantly correlated with mean PWV (r=-0.317, p<0.001). Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis using mean PWV as an objective variable, adjusted by explanatory variables, showed that eGFR (beta,-0.171; p<0.001) significantly contributed to mean PWV, along with age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and antihypertensive drug use, and improved multiple coefficient of determination in the model.

Decreased eGFR is associated with an increased risk of arterial stiffness in community residents.