Peripheral endothelial function is not impaired in women with MA, but they have greater arterial stiffness. This may contribute to the increased stroke risk in women with MA.

EMP levels are significantly elevated in women with MA and correlated with increased AI. Our findings suggest that endothelial activation is present in women with MA. This might contribute to higher stroke risk in MA.

Levels of SDF-1α are decreased in women with MA and are associated with EMPs as a surrogate marker of endothelial dysfunction. This might contribute to the pathophysiology and vascular risk in MA, but evidence from larger prospective studies is warranted.