Sex Difference in the Association Between Regional Adipose Tissue and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease.
• Understanding the relationship between regional adipose tissue deposits and LVH is crucial for risk stratification.
• Sex-specific differences in these associations may influence cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between LVH and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT).
• To explore potential sex-related differences in the associations between adipose tissue measures and LVH.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 416 individuals without pre-existing heart conditions underwent echocardiography and abdominal computed tomography.
• Logistic and linear regression analyses were employed to assess associations.
• Adipose tissue depots (VAT, SAT, EAT) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were quantified.

Main Results:

• LVH was associated with older age, higher systolic blood pressure, and increased EAT thickness.
• Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness was independently associated with LVH in women (OR 1.21, p=0.024) but not in men.
• A positive correlation between EAT and LVMI was observed in women (r=0.366, p<0.001), while a negative correlation was found in men (r=-0.153, p=0.038).
• Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) showed no significant associations with LVMI or LVH in either sex.

Conclusions:

• Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is linked to cardiac remodeling in a sex-specific manner.
• Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) are not significantly associated with LVH.
• These findings highlight the distinct role of EAT in the development of LVH, particularly in women.