Arterial stiffness - a cardiovascular risk factor to assess among primary care patients.

Abstract

Arterial stiffness is a characteristic of the arterial wall strongly associated with ageing and hypertension. It has been confirmed as a significant cardio-vascular risk factor. Despite available non- invasive measurement methods of central artery stiffening, it has not become a prevalent diagnostic marker in primary care so far. This article provides an overview of pathophysiology of arterial stiffness, possible diagnostic techniques, association with cardiovascular conditions and potential perspective of primary care to implement an additional distinctive parameter to evaluate cardiac risk.