The association between lung function and properties of the cardiovascular system in childhood

Background In adults, precursors of cardiovascular disease like higher arterial stiffness and intima-media thickness are associated with lower lung function. Little is known about this in the young. We determined the relation between lung function and arterial wall characteristics in young healthy children and assessed the influence of various factors. Methods Within the WHISTLER birth cohort study 553 5-year-olds had successful spirometry and ultrasonography of elastic modulus, distensibility and intima-media thickness of the a. carotis communis. In 230 of those, measurements were repeated at the age of 8 years. Linear regression was used with adjustments for anthropometrics and environmental factors. Results Higher lung function (FEV1) was statistically significantly associated with elastic modulus and distensibility (respective coefficients 35.1 kPa/L, 95%CI 12.6 to 57.6 and -17.9 MPa -1 /L, 95%CI -30.3 to -5.5 at the age of 5 years). After adjustment for age, sex, weight and height the associations attenuated to respectively 19.5 kPa/L, 95%CI -8.8 to 47.8 and -7.7, MPa -1 /L 95%CI -23.3 to 8.0). Environmental factors barely changed the associations. There was no association between lung function and intima-media thickness. Analysis at the age of 8 years confirmed the findings. Conclusion In contrast to findings in adults, higher lung function is associated with increased arterial stiffness in children, which is largely explained by anthropometry.