Endothelial Function and Cardiovascular Health

Abstract

Systemic vascular disease is a major public health issue all over the world. Vascular disease causes significant morbidity and excessive mortality. Risk factors for vascular disease like hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and tobacco consumption inflict vascular disease by causing endothelial dysfunction. Endothelium, the innermost layer of the blood vessels governs vascular tone and vasomotion. Abnormal endothelial function promotes vasoconstriction and atherothrombosis. Thus, endothelial dysfunction predisposes to vascular disease affecting target organs --- brain, heart, and the kidneys, etc. Endothelial dysfunction, thus, is a precursor in the onset and progression of systemic vascular disease and atherosclerosis. Future interventions to prevent vascular disease should include modalities to preserve endothelial function and to reverse endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial function is critical to maintain holistic public health.