Association between oxidative balance scores and severe abdominal aortic calcification in American adults: National health and nutrition examination survey

Abstract

Background and aim

Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) is a key predictor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) served as a tool to evaluate the systemic status of oxidative stress. However, evidence on the link between OBS and severe abdominal aortic calcification (SAAC) is currently inadequate. This study aims to establish this correlation in the US adult population, contributing valuable insights to the understanding of cardiovascular health.

Methods and results

In our study with 2745 participants from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we analyzed both OBS and AAC score data. Logistic regression and smooth curve fitting were used to investigate the relationship between OBS and SAAC. The overall prevalence of severe abdominal aortic calcification disease was 9.1%. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that higher oxidative balance scores were associated with a lower risk of SAAC. After adjusting for potential confounders (model III), for every 1-point increase in oxidative balance scores, the odds of SAAC decreased by 3% [OR = 0.97, 95% CI= (0.95,0.99), P = 0.03]. The dose–response relationship demonstrated a negative correlation between oxidative balance scores and SAAC (p for nonlinear = 0.368).

Conclusions

This study reveals a negative association between oxidative balance scores and severe abdominal aortic calcification in US adults. The implications of these findings merit careful consideration and should be taken into account in the formulation of clinical guidelines and updates.