Arterial stiffness in offspring of hypertensive parents: A pilot study

Offsprings of hypertensive parents are reported to have higher blood pressure, decreased aortic elasticity and higher arterial stiffness indices. The present study comprised 55 offsprings aged 14 to 30 years who were divided in two groups according to their familial hypertension history. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by measuring central augmentation index with the Sphygmocor device and pulse wave velocity carotid-brachial and carotid–femoral with the Complior SP device. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the role of positive familial history of hypertension in arterial function in young subjects.