Load-Dependent Mechanisms Contribute to Increased Aortic Stiffness Among Women with a History of Preeclampsia: Relation with Cardiovagal Baroreflex Sensitivity

The novel finding is that load-dependent stiffness, not structural stiffness, is the primary mechanism of aortic stiffness, and is associated with reduced baroreflex sensitivity in women with a history of preeclampsia. These findings may help tailor high blood pressure prevention and management strategies in this population to prevent structural aortic stiffening, altered baroreflex control, and increased lifetime cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.