Early Vascular Ageing (EVA): Definitions and Clinical Applicability

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Vascular Biology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Arterial stiffness is a recognized intermediate cardiovascular endpoint and an independent risk marker for cardiovascular disease.
• It signifies a dissociation between chronological and biological age of large arteries, leading to premature cardiovascular risk.
• This process reflects accelerated vascular ageing, distinct from normal ageing patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and elaborate on the concept of Early Vascular Ageing (EVA).
• To highlight EVA's role in primordial prevention of cardiovascular disease.
• To explore the underlying pathophysiology, consequences, and therapeutic strategies related to accelerated vascular ageing.

Main Methods:

• The study conceptualizes Early Vascular Ageing (EVA) based on existing evidence.
• It involves identifying individuals with accelerated ageing paths.
• Focuses on inherent features, environmental interactions, and arterial insults leading to medial layer changes.

Main Results:

• Early Vascular Ageing (EVA) is proposed as a construct to identify individuals with accelerated arterial ageing.
• This accelerated ageing is linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
• Medial layer morphological changes are identified as a consequence of various insults.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the pathophysiology of vascular ageing and EVA is crucial for effective prevention.
• Translating the EVA construct into clinical practice can improve cardiovascular disease prevention and survival.
• Further research into EVA is needed to refine its clinical application.