A clinical assessment of the efficiency and functional capacity of the heart, blood vessels, and circulating blood to deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and remove metabolic waste. This comprehensive measure includes metrics like cardiac output, vascular compliance, and blood pressure regulation. Optimal performance is directly influenced by neuroendocrine factors and is critical for systemic health and exercise tolerance, impacting overall longevity.
Origin
This term is derived from clinical physiology and sports medicine, where “cardiovascular” relates to the heart (cardio) and blood vessels (vascular), and “performance” quantifies the system’s output. The measurement of this performance is a cornerstone of clinical diagnostics for metabolic and hormonal health. It reflects the body’s capacity to meet its own metabolic demands under varying conditions.
Mechanism
Cardiac performance is primarily determined by stroke volume and heart rate, regulated by the autonomic nervous system and circulating hormones like epinephrine and thyroid hormones. Vascular tone, controlled by endothelial factors and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, modulates systemic vascular resistance. Efficient gas exchange in the lungs and appropriate blood viscosity further contribute to the overall functional capacity of this vital transport system.
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