Ultrasonographic assessment of carotid artery intima-media thickness as a predictive factor for cardiovascular events in young adults

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases, driven by atherosclerosis, are a leading global health and economic burden. The intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid arteries is an early marker of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. This study evaluated the relationship between IMT and lifestyle factors, particularly smoking, in young adults. Material and methods: The study involved 100 medical students aged 20–28 years. Lifestyle and health data were collected using questionnaires, and ultrasonographic IMT measurements of the left common carotid artery (LCCA) and right common carotid artery (RCCA) were performed. Statistical analysis explored the correlation between IMT and risk factors. Results: Smokers showed higher IMT values for the LCCA (0.71 mm) and RCCA (0.66 mm) than non-smokers (0.63 mm and 0.64 mm, respectively). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between smoking and IMT in the LCCA (U = 411; p = 0.0475; r = 0.19; r = 0.2451; p = 0.014), while no significant association was observed for the RCCA. Female smokers had markedly higher LCCA IMT values than non-smoking women. A positive correlation was observed between smoking and LCCA carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in women, with higher values in smokers (0.78 mm) than in non-smokers (0.61 mm) (U = 71.5; p = 0.0016; r = 0.39; r = 0.4695; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Smoking was significantly associated with increased IMT, confirming its role as a modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. Ultrasonographic IMT measurement is a non-invasive tool for early detection of subclinical atherosclerosis, emphasizing the need for preventive interventions among young adults.