Sonographic evaluation of carotid intima-media thickness among hypertensive adults in Port Harcourt metropolis, Rivers State Nigeria

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) is a reliable surrogate marker for atherosclerosis and can predict future cardiovascular events. The study assessed CIMT in hypertensive adults living in Port Harcourt to understand vascular wall changes linked to hypertension. CIMT was measured in 111 hypertensive and 111 non-hypertensive adults using B-mode ultrasound high-frequency linear probe (7–12 MHz), following Mannheim CIMT Consensus Guidelines. Measurements were taken bilaterally from the common carotid artery (10 mm before bifurcation), focusing on the far wall, and mean CIMT values were calculated. Hypertensive patients showed significantly higher CIMT values (right, left, and mean) compared to non-hypertensive individuals (p < 0.05) Hypertension was more common in older individuals and those with a higher BMI. Age and duration of hypertension had positive correlations with CIMT. BMI showed a weak negative correlation, and only age was statistically significant. Hypertensive adults have increased CIMT, indicating higher risk of subclinical atherosclerosis. The study supports incorporating sonographic CIMT assessment into cardiovascular risk evaluation and preventive healthcare strategies in Nigeria.