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Bringing prevention in geriatrics: evidences from cardiovascular medicine supporting the new challenge

Angelo Scuteri1, Edward G Lakatta

  • 1Laboratory Cardiovascular Sciences, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program - NIH, Baltimore, USA. angeloelefante@interfree.it

Experimental Gerontology
|March 13, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Preventing cardiovascular disease and disability in older adults is possible by targeting arterial aging. Understanding the interplay between arterial and brain aging offers a model for effective interventions at any life stage.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Aging is a heterogeneous, systemic process with potential adaptive components.
  • Cardiovascular disease and hypertension are leading causes of disability in the elderly.
  • Prevention strategies can be implemented at any age, even before diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the prevention of cardiovascular disease and disability in older adults.
  • To investigate factors modulating arterial aging.
  • To examine the cross-talk between arterial and brain aging as a model for prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current understanding of aging processes.
  • Analysis of factors influencing arterial aging.
  • Discussion of the arterial-brain aging axis.

Main Results:

  • Interventions targeting arterial aging can prevent age-related disability and cardiovascular disease.
  • The aging process exhibits significant inter-individual variability.
  • The relationship between arterial and brain aging provides a framework for preventative strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Prevention of cardiovascular disease and disability in the elderly is achievable by addressing arterial aging.
  • The interplay between arterial and brain aging serves as a key clinical model for promoting healthspan.
  • Early and continuous intervention is crucial for mitigating age-related health decline.

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