Story perspectives

COVID-19 Linked to Accelerated Vascular Aging in Women

8/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study by Cyprus University of Technology and University of Athens found COVID-19 increases arterial stiffness and accelerates vascular aging, particularly in women.
The CARTESIAN study included 2,390 participants from 16 countries, measuring carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV).
COVID-19 positive groups showed higher PWV than controls, with women experiencing greater increases.
After 12 months, PWV improved in COVID-19 positive groups but worsened in negative controls.
Researchers highlighted the need for strategies to address cardiovascular risks linked to accelerated vascular aging.

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Story summary

A study by Cyprus University of Technology and University of Athens found COVID-19 increases arterial stiffness and accelerates vascular aging, particularly in women.
The CARTESIAN study included 2,390 participants from 16 countries, measuring carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV).
COVID-19 positive groups showed higher PWV than controls, with women experiencing greater increases.
After 12 months, PWV improved in COVID-19 positive groups but worsened in negative controls.
Researchers highlighted the need for strategies to address cardiovascular risks linked to accelerated vascular aging.