Markers of Vascular Function and Future Coronary Artery Disease Risk Among Malaysians with Individual Cardiovascular Risk Factors

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> Vascular function measurements, including central parameters [pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AI)], as well as peripheral measures [finger photoplethysmography fitness index (PPGF)], have been introduced to detect early vascular damage associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors. This study aimed to compare peripheral and central vascular function marker levels among subjects with hypertension (HPT), dyslipidemia, and obesity. We also aimed to determine the relationship between these markers and CAD risk factors among these groups. <b>Methods:</b> A total of 320 subjects including healthy individuals and those with CAD risk factors were recruited. Peripheral vascular function was assessed using the PPGF, whereas central vascular markers included measurements of PWV and AI. The Framingham risk score (FRS) was calculated using an online calculator. <b>Results:</b> The mean age of the subjects was 33.73 ± 7.29 years. PWV and AI were significantly higher in HPT subjects (8.03 ± 1.40 m/s and 21.90% ± 10.57%) than the control. PPGF levels showed no significant differences between the groups. PWV was associated with FRS in the HPT and dyslipidemia groups, whereas AI was associated with FRS in the obese group. PPGF showed associations with PWV and AI in the dyslipidemia group. <b>Conclusions:</b> PWV and AI serve as robust macrovascular markers indicating arterial stiffness and systemic vascular resistance linked to CAD risk, while PPGF, as a microvascular marker, offers valuable insights into early endothelial dysfunction and microcirculatory anomalies, especially in dyslipidemia subjects.