Arterial Stiffness as a Tool for the Early Prediction of Arteriosclerosis and Overall Cardiovascular Disease Risk Stratification

Arteriosclerosis, the thickening of the arterial walls, occurs as we age. It can an early sign of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Early detection of arteriosclerosis can reduce CVD risk and act as a prevention tool. Vascular disease is predominantly assessed by brachial blood pressure, which provides limited information compared to arterial stiffness (AS) measurement, which assesses the health of the vessel. High blood pressure (hypertension) is also strongly associated with CVD. There is existing evidence that women exhibit steeper increases in systolic blood pressure as they age compared to men; however, there is less evidence regarding association of CVD risk factors and AS. Our population includes participants aged 35-79 who completed an arterial stiffness measurement and lifestyle questionnaires. We hope to predict CVD and events using AS and assess risk factors both alone and separately in men and women.