Obesity and Aortic Function
Author Information
Author(s): Monique R. Robinson, Michaela Scheuermann-Freestone, Paul Leeson, Keith M. Channon, Kieran Clarke, Stefan Neubauer, Frank Wiesmann
Primary Institution: University of Oxford
Hypothesis
Obesity, uncomplicated by other cardiovascular risk factors, is independently associated with aortic function.
Conclusion
Aortic elastic function is abnormal in obese subjects without other cardiovascular risk factors.
Supporting Evidence
- Obesity was associated with reduced aortic compliance and distensibility.
- Fat mass, leptin, and body mass index were independent predictors of aortic function.
- Leptin levels were significantly higher in obese subjects.
Takeaway
Being obese can make your aorta, the big blood vessel in your body, not work as well, even if you don't have other health problems.
Methodology
Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure aortic compliance, distensibility, and stiffness index in obese subjects and controls.
Limitations
The study had a relatively small sample size.
Participant Demographics
27 obese subjects (BMI 33 kg/m2) and 12 controls (BMI 23 kg/m2), with no other cardiovascular risk factors.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.02
Confidence Interval
95% CI = -0.027 to -0.007
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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