Objectives: Non-invasive screening tests for identifying the abnormal structure and function of arteries in hypertension are strongly recommended. Useful information may be obtained by measuring arterial stiffness (AS) by pulse wave velocity. The aim of the study was to measure the arterial stiffness among hypertensives and to establish the influence of smoking habit on this parameter.

Methods: The study group consisted of 60 young and middle age man (18–40 years old, mean 27.8) with essential hypertension. The group was divided into smoking and non-smoking subgroups. Arterial stiffness was measured by DVP photoplethysmography using a direct, standardized approach. Stiffness index (SI) derived from digital volume pulse (DVP) was analysis. The anthropometric and blood pressure measurements and concentration of serum lipid profile, fasting glucose and creatinine level and C-reactive protein were performed.

Results: In the whole examined population the mean SI was 7.48 ± 1.68 m/s. There were no statistically significant differences between subgroups - in smoking subjects mean SI was 6.93 ± 1.66 m/s, whereas in non-smoking patients mean SI was 7.65 ± 1.57 m/s. There were correlations between SI and age and systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions: 1. There was no statistically significant difference in stiffness index in smoking and non-smoking young patients with essential hypertension. 2. Noninvasive measurements of arterial stiffness should be considered in young patients without symptoms of subclinical organ damage.