Arterial Stiffness Aging

Arterial stiffness aging refers to reduced elasticity of large arteries due to structural remodeling of the arterial wall. Aging arteries undergo increased collagen deposition, elastin fragmentation, smooth muscle cell changes, and calcification. These alterations reduce the ability of arteries to buffer pulsatile blood flow generated by cardiac contraction. As arterial stiffness increases, systolic blood pressure rises and pulse pressure widens, placing greater load on the heart and microvasculature. Arterial stiffness aging contributes to hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, kidney damage, and cerebrovascular stress. It also affects cerebral circulation, influencing cognitive aging and stroke risk. Arterial stiffness is considered a sensitive indicator of biological aging and cardiovascular risk. Understanding arterial stiffness aging provides a mechanistic link between vascular structure, hemodynamics, and systemic aging outcomes.