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Factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in community-dwelling oldest elderly aged over 80 years

Michiko Fujisawa1, Kiyohito Okumiya, Kozo Matsubayashi

  • 1National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi, Japan. mfujisaw@pri.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Geriatrics & Gerontology International
|August 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This study identified key factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in individuals aged 80 and older. Aging and alcohol abstinence were linked in males, while orthostatic blood pressure changes were significant in females, highlighting sex-specific risk factors.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology and Cardiovascular Health
  • Vascular Biology and Atherosclerosis Research
  • Epidemiology of Aging

Background:

  • Established risk factors for atherosclerosis include hypertension, hyperlipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, smoking, and hyperhomocysteinemia.
  • The specific risk factors for atherosclerosis in the oldest elderly population (80+ years) remain largely undetermined.
  • This study investigates factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in community-dwelling individuals aged 80 years and older.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in the oldest elderly population.
  • To identify potential differences in risk factors between males and females in this age group.
  • To provide insights for targeted prevention strategies in geriatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 136 community-dwelling individuals aged 80 years or older.
  • Carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) was measured using ultrasonography, with maximum IMT (max IMT) used for analysis.
  • Data collected included blood pressure, orthostatic changes, blood chemistry, anthropometrics, lifestyle, and medical history.

Main Results:

  • In males, max IMT correlated with age and low gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, and was associated with age and alcohol abstinence.
  • In females, max IMT correlated with serum homocysteine levels and was associated with orthostatic blood pressure changes.
  • Overall, aging in males and orthostatic blood pressure changes in females were significantly associated with higher carotid artery IMT.

Conclusions:

  • Sex, aging, orthostatic blood pressure changes, and alcohol abstinence are associated with carotid artery intima-media thickness in the oldest elderly.
  • Distinct risk factors for carotid atherosclerosis exist between males and females in this advanced age group.
  • These findings underscore the importance of considering sex-specific factors in managing atherosclerosis risk in the oldest old.
Abstract

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