The association between augmentation index and arterial stiffness index

Abstract

Objective To explore the association between arterial system augmentation index(AI) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Methods All subjects were selected from a local community. The study included 1752 people living in Shijingshan district, Beijing during April to June,2010. Subjects whose age ranged from 23 to 90 years old [(59.82±11.88) years old] were included and 56.7% of the subjects were women. Pulse wave at the left radial artery was measured and the AI was calculated by Colin pulse wave detection device HEM9000AI. baPWV and ankle-brachial index (ABI) were measured using Colin noninvasive arteriosclerosis tester VP-1000. Color doppler flow imaging was used to measure intima-media thickness (IMT) of the bilateral carotid artery. Results The baPWV was significantly higher in ABI0.9 group and IMT0.9 mm group, while there was no significant difference of AI75 between groups. AI had a low correlation with baPWV (r = -0.068, P = 0.005). Partial correlation analysis showed that there was no significant association between AI and baPWV (r = -0.033, P = 0.17). In multiple stepwise regression analysis, the factors of AI included gender, age, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, heart rate, ABI and systolic pressure. Conclusion No significant correlation can be found between AI and baPWV. Various factors may influence the measurement of AI. This study suggests that AI may not be a sensitive and reliable index for the evaluation of arterial stiffness.