Hemodynamic Aging as the Consequence of Structural Changes Associated with Early Vascular Aging (EVA)

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Gerontology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Increased arterial stiffness, a hallmark of early vascular aging (EVA), is not typical in healthy older individuals but signifies heightened cardiovascular risk.
• Arterial stiffness elevates brachial and central systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (c-f PWV) in those over 50.
• A c-f PWV threshold of ≥ 10 m/s indicates increased cardiovascular risk, as per the 2012 consensus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the clinical significance of early vascular aging (EVA) and increased arterial stiffness.
• To discuss current prevention and treatment strategies for EVA, including lifestyle modifications and risk factor control.
• To introduce novel therapeutic approaches, such as selective Angiotensin II (AT2) receptor agonists like compound 21, for vascular protection.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical observations and established markers of arterial stiffness.
• Analysis of consensus statements regarding cardiovascular risk thresholds.
• Discussion of pharmacological interventions and target populations for early intervention.

Main Results:

• Early vascular aging (EVA) is characterized by increased arterial stiffness and elevated blood pressure.
• Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (c-f PWV) serves as a key clinical marker for assessing arterial stiffness and cardiovascular risk.
• Risk families with early-onset cardiovascular disease represent a potential target group for proactive vascular protection strategies.

Conclusions:

• Early intervention strategies are crucial for managing early vascular aging (EVA) and mitigating cardiovascular risk.
• Lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy, including emerging drugs like compound 21, are vital for vascular protection.
• Identifying and intervening in at-risk populations, such as those with a family history of cardiovascular disease, can enhance preventative care.