Ethnic differences in arterial stiffness and central aortic hemodynamics

J. K. Cruickshank, S. G. Anderson, M. Strauss-Kruger, L. Gafane-Matemane, R. Kruger, Y. Breet, A. E. Schutte

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Studying ethnic contrasts in arterial function throws light on potential etiology, pathophysiology, and opportunities to improve treatment in often neglected groups. In this chapter, we review the impact of ethnicity on arterial stiffness. We do not focus on “race” which is not biologically defined and whenever possible avoid skin “color.” We take a life-course approach (intrauterine, childhood, adolescence, and youth), with most data in middle-aged and older adults. Available evidence supports the presence of an important influence of race/ethnicity on large artery stiffening and cardiovascular risk. Ethnic differences in arterial indices are clearest where obesity, socioeconomic and psychosocial factors are most marked, with intergenerational transmission. Few studies have examined what mechanisms beyond standard risk factors contribute to disparities. Genetic effects are not obvious; studies of maternal risk and between generations are yet rare. It seems self-evident that mounting simple, large, randomized trials (RCTs) with large artery stiffness as the target and events as the primary outcome may provide evidence for the implementation of novel preventive and therapeutic approaches to reducing cardiovascular risk, particularly in ethnic minorities.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationTextbook of Arterial Stiffness and Pulsatile Hemodynamics in Health and Disease
PublisherElsevier Masson s.r.l.
Pages429-443
Number of pages15
ISBN (Electronic)9780323913911
ISBN (Print)9780323913911
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2022

Publication series

NameTextbook of Arterial Stiffness and Pulsatile Hemodynamics in Health and Disease

Keywords

  • Arterial function
  • Causality
  • Central pressure
  • Ethnicity
  • Geography
  • Pulse wave velocity

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