Vascular Ageing Influences Arterial Stiffness: A Cross-sectional Study of Different Age Groups with Special Reference to Blood Pressure and Obesity

Abstract

Introduction: Advanced Vascular age increases arterial stiffness which is a critical factor in cardiovascular risks such as high blood pressure (BP). The altered structural and functional changes in the blood vessels significantly contribute to increased arterial stiffness (AS). Ageing, increased BP and obesity are identified as the independent predictors of arterial stiffness. Current global scenarios make it need of the hour to establish a relationship between these factors.

Aim & Objectives: In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to explore the effect of vascular ageing on AS across two age groups and also find a correlation of obesity parameters and BP phenotypes.

Methodology: We determined the AS by measuring the arterial stiffness index (ASI) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) whereas the vascular ageing and BP were determined by oscillometric method in all the participants of our study. The obesity indices were measured by measuring body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). The obtained data was analyzed with Microsoft Excel and version-20 software of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).

Results: The results obtained from our data were presented as mean ± SD and the correlation was conducted using Spearman’s correlation. The values of p < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant in our results which make it evident that there is a positive correlation between obesity, AS, BP and vascular ageing.

Conclusion: These observations of our current study are indicative of an intricate relationship between vascular ageing, arterial stiffness, obesity and high blood pressure.