A wider pulse pressure suggests greater arterial stiffness and cardiovascular risk. Which choice best reflects this statement?

• A. Greater arterial stiffness and cardiovascular risk
• B. Lower risk of cardiovascular events
• C. Decreased blood flow
• D. Decreased heart rate

Answer: (A)

A wider pulse pressure reflects reduced arterial compliance, meaning the arteries are stiffer. When arteries lose elasticity, the systolic pressure tends to rise because the aorta and large arteries can’t expand as they should, while diastolic pressure may fall or not rise as much, widening the difference between the two numbers. This increased afterload on the heart and poorer coronary perfusion during the diastolic phase are linked to higher cardiovascular risk, including heart failure and ischemic events. So the statement that a wider pulse pressure indicates greater arterial stiffness and greater cardiovascular risk is the best fit.

The other options don’t align with this physiology: lower risk contradicts the association, decreased blood flow isn’t the direct or universal consequence of a wider pulse pressure, and decreased heart rate isn’t determined by pulse pressure width.