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 m2) are associated with increased arterial stiffness while calcium and phosphorus metabolism may play a role by promoting vascular calcification.