Association between different risk factors and vascular accelerated ageing (EVA study): study protocol for a...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Gerontology
• Public health

Background:

• Population ageing presents significant healthcare challenges.
• Early vascular ageing (EVA) is a critical indicator of cardiovascular risk.
• Understanding EVA determinants is crucial for preventative health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze factors influencing early vascular ageing (EVA).
• To estimate EVA using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) and Cardio Ankle Vascular Index (CAVI).
• To identify gender-specific differences in EVA within a Spanish population.

Main Methods:

• Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study design.
• Cluster random sampling stratified by age and gender (n=500, ages 35-75).
• Measurements include cf-PWV, CAVI, telomere length, and various vascular/organ damage indicators.

Main Results:

• Lifestyle factors (physical activity, diet, substance use), psychological factors (stress, anxiety, depression), and biomarkers (inflammation, oxidative stress) were assessed.
• The study aims to elucidate the relationship and relative importance of these factors in EVA development.
• Specific results regarding gender differences and influencing factors are pending (Pre-results).

Conclusions:

• Identifying key drivers of EVA is essential for mitigating cardiovascular risk in ageing populations.
• This research provides insights into vascular health across different demographics.
• Findings will inform targeted interventions to promote healthy vascular ageing.