Characteristics of pulse wave velocity and its correlation with cardiovascular disease risk factors in healthy individuals.

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of human mortality and has become the leading cause of death worldwide. Existing studies indicate that structural and functional damage to the main arteries represents a significant risk factor for early vascular lesions and many CVDs.

Aims: This study aimed to explore characteristics of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and its correlation with cardiovascular disease risk factors in healthy individuals.

Methods: Convenience sampling was used to collect demographics, risk factors, and laboratory examinations from 501 healthy individuals who underwent health checkups at our healthcare center from August 2020 to January 2021. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine the correlations between cfPWV and various parameters in both sexes. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to investigate the factors potentially influencing cfPWV.

Results: A statistically significant difference in cfPWV between sexes was observed only in the age group of subjects 38-47 years old. The results of the univariate analysis showed that in males, cfPWV was positively correlated with age, blood pressure, heart rate, and alcohol consumption and was negatively correlated with tehe resistive index. In females, cfPWV was positively correlated with age, blood pressure, heart rate, alanine aminotransferase, urea, creatine, uric acid, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and heart rate. The results of multivariable analysis indicated that age, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and alcohol consumption were influencing factors for cfPWV in males, while age, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and creatinine were influencing factors for cfPWV in females (P <0.05 for all).

Conclusions: In healthy individuals, the distribution patterns of cfPWV values vary by sex and age. In the elderly population, especially elderly women, enhanced monitoring and regular follow-ups are recommended to prevent the development and progression of CVDs in high-risk individuals at an early stage.