The sex-specific difference in age-related aortic regional morphological changes

• DOI: 10.1007/s40520-025-02981-1
• Publication Date: 2025-03-11T11:21:23Z
• Authors: Zixuan Meng; Lele Cheng; Wenjun Liu; Yue Yu; Hui Liu; Guolin Yao; Jian Yang; Yue Wu; Zhijie Jian
• Keywords: Tortuosity; Sex characteristics; Age groups; Descending aorta

Abstract Background This study aims to investigate the influence of sex on age-related changes in aortic morphology using computed tomography (CT) imaging. Method Patients who underwent contrast-enhanced chest and abdominal CT between July 2021 April 2022 were enrolled stratified into six groups. Sex-specific comparisons body surface area (BSA)-adjusted diameters tortuosity performed across different To validate consistency differences arterial changes, particularly regarding stiffness, relevant data extracted from a previously published analyze correlation age stiffness both sexes. Results A total 208 participants (59.6% males, overall mean age: 60.13 ± 16.33 years) enrolled. The BSA-adjusted showed positive with sexes, females exhibiting more rapid increase than males. In groups 60–69 years above 80 years, had significantly larger ascending aorta Additionally, after 40 old, greater all segments Both descending thoracic exhibited notable aging, females. Furthermore, branchial-pulse wave velocity (baPWV) similar progression pattern, baPWV increasing at an accelerated rate Conclusion sex-based variation morphological aging is observed throughout lifespan, showing pronounced tortuosity. It highlights importance prioritizing preventive measures for females, may benefit due sex-specific disparities.