Pulse-Wave Velocity (Arterial Stiffness)

•Observational— Reference vascular-age test

What it measures

The arterial pressure wave generated by left ventricular ejection propagates down the arterial tree. The speed depends on arterial wall stiffness: stiffer arteries propagate the wave faster. Measurement is typically by placing tonometers at the carotid and femoral arteries and timing the wave travel.

Why it matters

• Vascular age correlate — cfPWV correlates strongly with chronological age and accelerates with cardiovascular risk factors.
• Predicts events independent of traditional risk factors.
• Modifiable — responds to exercise, weight loss, sodium reduction, BP control over months to years.

Modifiers

• Up: aging, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, CKD, inflammation, high sodium intake.
• Down: aerobic exercise, weight loss, Mediterranean diet, BP control, RAAS blockade.

Caveats

• Not in standard primary-care panels; specialist or research-clinic test.
• Operator-dependent.
• Single readings have moderate variability; trend over years.

Related entries

Blood pressure, CAC score, Cardiovascular disease.