PPG-Based Vascular Health Index: A Novel Approach for Detecting Early Vascular Dysfunction in Pre-Hypertensive and Diabetic Individuals

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with early vascular dysfunction playing a critical role in their progression. Detecting vascular health deterioration at an early stage is crucial, particularly in pre-hypertensive and diabetic individuals who are at high risk of developing severe cardiovascular complications. This study presents a novel approach utilizing photoplethysmography (PPG) to develop a Vascular Health Index (VHI) for early detection of vascular dysfunction. PPG, a non-invasive optical technique, captures blood volume changes in the microvascular bed, providing valuable insights into arterial stiffness and endothelial function. The proposed VHI is derived from PPG waveform characteristics, including pulse transit time (PTT), reflection index (RI), and augmentation index (AI), which correlate with vascular compliance and arterial health. By integrating machine learning algorithms, this model enhances diagnostic accuracy and enables risk stratification. The study evaluates the effectiveness of VHI in identifying early vascular abnormalities among pre-hypertensive and diabetic individuals, demonstrating its potential as a cost-effective and scalable screening tool. The findings suggest that this PPG-based VHI can be instrumental in preventive healthcare, allowing for timely interventions before irreversible vascular damage occurs. The proposed method has the potential to revolutionize cardiovascular risk assessment by offering an accessible, non-invasive, and efficient alternative to conventional diagnostic techniques.