[A statistical definition of aortic pulse wave velocity normality in a Portuguese population: a subanalysis of the EDIVA project].

INTRODUCTION

Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) has been associated with cardiovascular risk in different clinical subsets. This subanalysis of the EDIVA project aimed to establish criteria for normality of PWV based on a statistical definition that considers the fundamental physiological role of aging in arterial stiffness.

METHODS

A sample of 668 healthy subjects (412 male) enrolled in the EDIVA Project (a prospective, multicenter, observational study) were studied. Mean age was 40.00 ± 13.42 years, body mass index was 25.90 ± 4.21kg/m(2), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were respectively 125.47 ± 11.18 and 75.75 ± 9.27mmHg. PWV was determined annually using a Complior device, and mean follow-up was 23.3 ± 3.34 months. Personal and family history, physical examination, electrocardiogram and biochemical analysis were used to determine individual health.

RESULTS

In the overall population PWV was 8.8 ± 1.4m/sec, 8.7 ± 1.6m/sec in men and 8.9 ± 1.5m/sec in women (p=NS). Normal PWV was defined as the 95th percentile adjusted for age and gender, above which PWV was considered abnormal. Serial evaluation of PWV also enabled the annual age-dependent increase in PWV to be estimated at 5%, values above this cut-off being defined as abnormal vascular deterioration.

CONCLUSION

This study establishes criteria for normality based on a statistical definition that takes into account the fundamental physiological role of aging in arterial stiffness. Additionally, it provides a cut-off for the clinical interpretation of serial PWV measurements.