Markers of arterial stiffness in a sample of Lebanese subjects with Grade I essential hypertension.

OBJECTIVES: Arterial stiffness is becoming a major global condition associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems and death. Several markers have been linked to arterial stiffness.

METHODS: To determine and evaluate these relations, anthropometric parameters (weight, height, and pulse rate), biochemical profile, and central and peripheral indices of arterial function were measured in 114 Lebanese subjects with Grade I essential hypertension.

RESULTS: Age was associated with a higher pulse wave velocity (p = .001), central systolic blood pressure (p = .013), central pulse pressure (p = .028), central augmentation index (p ≤ .0001) with a lower heart rate (p = .08), and glomerular filtration rate (p = .019). Pulse wave velocity was found to be higher in older subjects (>65 years) and correlated with higher body mass index (r = .85) independent of age. Aging also correlated with higher plasma glucose and alterations in calcium-phosphorus metabolism.

CONCLUSION: Aging is associated with increased arterial stiffness which is reflected by an increase in the pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, central pulse pressure, and central systolic blood pressure with a reduction in heart rate. Also, a higher body mass index and a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (< 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) are associated with increased arterial stiffness while calcium and phosphorus metabolism may play a role by promoting vascular calcification.