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Estimating normal and reference pulse wave velocity in New Zealand population
Ekta Dahiya1, Andrew Lowe1, Rita Krishnamurthi2
1Institute of Biomedical Technologies (IBTec), Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand
|August 4, 2025
Summary
This study established normal pulse wave velocity (PWV) values in New Zealand adults, finding age and blood pressure are key predictors. PWV values were lower than international standards and varied by ethnicity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Vascular Aging
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a marker of arterial stiffness and cardiovascular risk.
- Establishing population-specific reference values for PWV is crucial for accurate risk assessment.
- Previous studies have not comprehensively assessed PWV in the New Zealand population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normal and reference pulse wave velocity (PWV) values in a New Zealand adult population.
- To investigate the relationship between PWV and cardiovascular risk factors, including age, blood pressure, and ethnicity.
- To compare New Zealand PWV values with international standards.
Main Methods:
- An observational cross-sectional study of 120 adults aged over 18 was conducted.
- Participants were categorized into age groups and blood pressure (BP) categories.
- PWV was measured using Doppler ultrasound via the carotid-femoral method.
Main Results:
- Mean PWV for the study population was 5.88 ± 1.49 m/s.
- PWV significantly increased with age and was higher in the Reference Value Population (RVP) group.
- Significant differences in mean PWV were observed between European and non-European populations (p = 0.004).
- Age and mean blood pressure were the strongest predictors of PWV, explaining 54.5% of the variability.
Conclusions:
- New Zealand adult PWV values are generally lower than international standards.
- Age and mean blood pressure are the primary determinants of PWV in this population.
- Ethnicity is a significant factor influencing PWV, highlighting the need for population-specific assessments.
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