Effect of age and sex on carotid intima-media thickness, elasticity and brachial endothelial function in healthy adults: the cardiovascular risk in Young Finns Study.

Reference values produced in the present study can be utilized in the cardiovascular risk stratification among young people. Sex differences in the markers of subclinical atherosclerosis were mostly explained by differences in risk factors and vessel size. This emphasizes the importance of risk factor control in the prevention of atherosclerosis in young adults.