Distinct factors are related to lower limb atherosclerosis in smokers and nonsmokers

OBJECTIVE:Smoking increases the risk of peripheral artery disease, but the mechanisms are not well established. This study evaluated the association of local circumferential wall tension (CWT), markers of vascular remodeling and stiffness, and traditional risk factors with popliteal and carotid plaques among smokers and nonsmokers. METHODS:Two hundred fifty-two individuals (126 smokers and 126 nonsmokers) underwent clinical, laboratory, and popliteal and carotid ultrasound analysis. Popliteal and carotid CWT measures were calculated in supine and orthostatic positions, and supine position, respectively. RESULTS:Popliteal plaques were more common in smokers than nonsmokers (39 vs. 19%; P