Article

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether arterial stiffness is associated with cognitive
function after adjustment for physical fitness in patients with chronic stroke.
METHODS: Cross-sectional analyses were conducted in 102 patients with chronic
stroke who participated in an exercise rehabilitation programme. Carotid femoral
pulse wave velocity and augmentation index were measured as indices of arterial
stiffness and central systolic loading. Cognitive function was assessed with the
Mini Mental State Examination. Parameters of physical fitness included the 6-min
walk test, flexibility, balance, and muscle strength tests. RESULTS: Carotid
femoral pulse wave velocity was significantly associated with Mini Mental State
Examination (r = -0.45, p < 0.01) and parameters of physical fitness (r = -0.45~
-0.55, p < 0.01, all). Mini Mental State Examination was significantly associated
with parameters of physical fitness (r = 0.32~0.46, p < 0.01, all). In
multivariable linear regression models, carotid femoral pulse wave velocity was
inversely associated with Mini Mental State Examination after adjustment for
multiple risk factors (beta = -0.33, p = 0.01). However, the association was
attenuated and became non-significant after additional adjustment for physical
fitness (beta = -0.11, p = 0.39). CONCLUSION: Arterial stiffness measured by
carotid femoral pulse wave velocity is associated with cognitive function in
patients with chronic stroke, but not after adjustment for physical fitness.
Maintaining appropriate levels of physical fitness may have a favourable effect
on both vascular and cognitive function in patients with stroke.

Langue : ANGLAIS