Biomechanical markers for cardiovascular Risk in south asians

The burden of cardiovascular disease is one of the major causes of mortality in developing countries and is currently CVD is responsible for 24% of all deaths in India [1] with CVD related mortality projected to double within the next decade. CVD exhibits itself both as narrowing of arterial lumen (coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease) and ballooning of artery wall (abdominal aortic aneurysm, cerebral aneurysm). CVD incidence and disease progression is strongly depended upon factors such as race/ethnicity, gender, and age [2, 3]. Hence, understanding CVD risks, identifying prevention methods, and planning treatment options requires strong coupling between epidemiological data and underlying biomechanics analysis. Such studies are currently limited in Indian context.

The use of image analysis with biomechanical tools when extended to larger patient base is critical in better understanding of CVD risks, prognosis, and treatment planning in Indian context.