Central hemodynamics could explain the inverse association between height and cardiovascular mortality

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Clinical Epidemiology

Background:

• The inverse relationship between height and cardiovascular mortality is not fully understood.
• Central hemodynamics may mediate this association.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between height and central/peripheral hemodynamics.
• To explore clinical characteristics related to height and cardiovascular risk.

Main Methods:

• 1,152 community-dwelling adults (mean age 67.7 years) were studied.
• Brachial blood pressure (BP) and central BP were measured.
• Aortic pulse wave velocity was estimated using applanation tonometry.

Main Results:

• Height was not associated with aortic pulse wave velocity.
• Central systolic BP and augmentation index were inversely associated with height.
• Taller individuals had lower rates of coronary artery disease and hypertension.

Conclusions:

• Taller individuals possess more favorable central hemodynamics.
• Height is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk factors and disease.
• Findings may explain decreased cardiovascular risk in taller individuals.