COVID-19 Accelerates vascular Aging, Especially in Women: Landmark Study Reveals Long-Term Risks
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Geneva, Switzerland – August 20, 2025 – A groundbreaking international study has revealed that COVID-19 infection considerably accelerates vascular aging, with women exhibiting a disproportionately higher risk.The research, published in the European Heart Journal, underscores the long-term cardiovascular consequences of the pandemic and highlights the importance of vaccination and ongoing monitoring for survivors.
Understanding the Link Between COVID-19 and Vascular Health
Since its emergence in late 2019, SARS-cov-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, has been linked to a wide range of health complications extending far beyond the acute respiratory illness. Mounting evidence suggests a strong connection between COVID-19 and increased cardiovascular risk, including heart attacks, strokes, and arrhythmias [[1]]. This new study delves deeper into the mechanisms behind these risks, focusing on the impact of the virus on the vascular system.
Vascular aging, characterized by increased arterial stiffness, is a key indicator of cardiovascular health and a strong predictor of mortality. Unlike chronological age, vascular age reflects the actual condition of blood vessels and can be influenced by lifestyle factors and underlying health conditions.
The CARTESIAN Study: A Global Investigation
The CARTESIAN (COVID-19 Accelerated Vascular Ageing Study) involved nearly 2,400 participants from 38 medical centers across 18 countries. Researchers categorized participants into four groups based on their COVID-19 status: individuals who tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 (control group), those with non-hospitalized infections, those hospitalized with the virus, and those requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Vascular health was assessed using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, a standard measure of arterial stiffness.
Key Findings at a Glance
| Participant Group | Arterial stiffness Compared to Controls |
|---|---|
| Non-Hospitalized COVID-19 | +0.55-0.60 m/s (Women) |
| Hospitalized COVID-19 | +0.55-0.60 m/s (Women) |
| ICU-Admitted COVID-19 | +1.09 m/s (Women) |
| Men (All infection Levels) | No Significant Difference |
The study revealed that all participants with confirmed COVID-19 infection exhibited significantly higher arterial stiffness compared to those who remained uninfected. Notably, the effect was far more pronounced in women. Women with confirmed infections showed a significant increase in arterial stiffness, regardless of the severity of their illness.No statistically significant difference in arterial stiffness was observed between infected and uninfected men.
Did You Know? Women appear to experience a greater impact on vascular health from COVID-19 than men, possibly due to differences in immune response and hormonal factors.
Further analysis showed that persistent COVID-19 symptoms were associated with even greater arterial stiffness in women, suggesting that long-COVID may exacerbate vascular damage. However, follow-up measurements taken approximately 12 months after the initial assessment indicated that arterial stiffness partially improved over time in infected participants, while it continued to increase in the control group.
Implications and Future Research
These findings have significant implications for the long-term cardiovascular health of COVID-19 survivors. The study suggests that COVID-19 can accelerate vascular aging even in individuals who experienced mild infections. The observed gender disparity highlights the need for targeted prevention and monitoring strategies for women.
Researchers also found that vaccination was associated with lower arterial stiffness in women,particularly those who had been hospitalized with COVID-19. This reinforces the importance of vaccination as a protective measure against long-term cardiovascular complications.
Pro Tip: If you have recovered from COVID-19, discuss your cardiovascular risk factors with your healthcare provider and consider regular vascular health screenings.
The study authors emphasize the need for further research to determine whether these preclinical changes in vascular health translate into increased clinical cardiovascular events. They also plan to investigate the impact of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and reinfections on vascular aging.
What steps can healthcare systems take to proactively address the long-term cardiovascular risks associated with COVID-19?
Could targeted interventions, such as lifestyle modifications or pharmacological treatments, help mitigate the accelerated vascular aging observed in COVID-19 survivors?
The long-term effects of COVID-19 continue to unfold, with cardiovascular complications emerging as a significant concern. Ongoing research is crucial to understanding the full scope of these effects and developing effective strategies for prevention and treatment. The CARTESIAN study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying COVID-19-related vascular damage and underscores the importance of proactive cardiovascular care for survivors.
Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 and Vascular Health
- What is vascular aging? Vascular aging refers to the stiffening of arteries, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Is COVID-19 a risk factor for vascular aging? Yes, the CARTESIAN study demonstrates that COVID-19 infection accelerates vascular aging, particularly in women.
- Can vaccination protect against COVID-19-related vascular damage? The study suggests that vaccination is associated with lower arterial stiffness in women.
- What are the symptoms of vascular aging? Vascular aging frequently enough has no noticeable symptoms, making regular checkups crucial.
- How is arterial stiffness measured? Arterial stiffness is commonly measured using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
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