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Updated: Mar 25, 2026

Measuring the Carotid to Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity Cf-PWV to Evaluate Arterial Stiffness
Published on: May 3, 2018
[Isolated Systolic Hypertension in Different Ages]
Insights
Isolated systolic hypertension, common in all ages, has different causes and implications in young versus elderly individuals. Evaluating central blood pressure and arterial stiffness in younger people may detect premature vascular aging.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Gerontology
- Hypertension Research
Context:
- Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality.
- Traditionally linked to aging, ISH affects both elderly individuals and young adults.
- The underlying pathophysiology of ISH differs fundamentally across age groups.
Purpose:
- To explore the differing pathophysiology and prognostic significance of isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) in various age demographics.
- To highlight the potential of assessing central blood pressure and arterial stiffness in younger populations.
- To identify markers of premature vascular aging in younger individuals with ISH.
Summary:
- While the adverse prognostic significance of ISH in the elderly is well-established, ISH in younger and middle-aged individuals is heterogeneous.
- In younger populations, ISH may stem from excessive pulse pressure amplification or indicate accelerated vascular aging.
- Evaluating central hemodynamics and arterial stiffness could aid in identifying premature vascular aging.
Impact:
- This research emphasizes the need for age-specific evaluation and management strategies for isolated systolic hypertension.
- Identifying premature vascular aging in younger individuals could lead to earlier interventions, potentially reducing long-term cardiovascular risk.
- Understanding the diverse mechanisms of ISH across the lifespan can refine cardiovascular disease prevention efforts.
Abstract:
Hypertension is the leading risk-factor for cardiovascular disease and death from them. Traditionally, the problem of isolated systolic hypertension is associated with old age in mind the natural dynamics of systolic and diastolic blood pressure throughout life. Isolated systolic hypertension is the most common type of hypertension in elderly men as well as young adults. The pathophysiology of this condition in different age periods have fundamental differences. The adverse prognostic significance of isolated systolic hypertension in the elderly, and the need for its non-drug and drug treatment are well documented. Accumulating epidemiological evidence on the adverse prognostic significance of isolated systolic hypertension. People young and middle-aged isolated systolic hypertension heterogeneous and may be a consequence of excessive pulse pressure amplification from the aorta to the peripheral arteries and the manifestation of an accelerated aging. Evaluation of central blood pressure and arterial stiffness in young may help identify premature vascular aging.
Related Concept Videos
Hypertension I: Introduction
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Factors affecting Blood pressure
Physiological Factors:
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

