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The epidemiology of subclavian artery calcification

Anand Prasad1, Christina L Wassel, Nicole E Jensky

  • 1Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, San Diego, Calif, USA.

Journal of Vascular Surgery
|July 5, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Subclavian artery calcification is common, affecting over 30% of individuals studied. It is linked to aging, hypertension, smoking, and calcification in other arteries, suggesting broader vascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Radiology
  • Preventive Health

Background:

  • Arterial calcification signifies atherosclerosis and adverse prognosis.
  • Data on subclavian artery calcification prevalence and risk factors are limited compared to other arterial beds.
  • Subclavian artery calcification may serve as an important indicator of systemic vascular disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of subclavian artery calcification.
  • To identify associated risk factors for subclavian artery calcification.
  • To understand the clinical significance of subclavian artery calcification in preventive medicine.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) to assess vascular calcification in 1387 individuals.
  • Collected data on blood pressure, lipids, anthropometrics, and medical history.
  • Evaluated calcification across multiple arterial beds, including the subclavian arteries.

Main Results:

  • Subclavian artery calcification was identified in 31.7% of participants.
  • Associated factors included older age, lower body mass index, and presence of calcification in other arteries.
  • Significant associations were found with age, hypertension, smoking history, and non-subclavian calcification, even after risk factor adjustment.

Conclusions:

  • Subclavian artery calcification is a prevalent condition.
  • It is significantly associated with key cardiovascular risk factors: age, hypertension, and smoking.
  • Findings suggest a potential link between subclavian artery calcification, vascular stiffness (indicated by pulse pressure), and broader atherosclerotic burden.
Abstract

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