What is the most common valvular abnormality affecting nearly 2% of adults older than 65 years?

Aortic stenosis is recognized as the most common valvular abnormality in adults over the age of 65, affecting nearly 2% of this population. As individuals age, the aortic valve can experience calcification and degenerative changes, leading to a narrowing of the valve opening. This condition restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta, which can result in symptoms such as dyspnea, angina, and syncope.

Aortic stenosis is particularly prevalent in the elderly due to the natural aging process and the cumulative effects of factors like hypertension and high cholesterol, which can accelerate valve degeneration. The resulting left ventricular outflow obstruction causes increased pressure within the left ventricle, leading to ventricular hypertrophy and, ultimately, heart failure if not addressed.

Mitral stenosis, mitral regurgitation, and aortic regurgitation are also significant valvular conditions; however, they do not exhibit the same level of prevalence in the elderly population as aortic stenosis does. Mitral stenosis is more commonly associated with rheumatic heart disease and is less frequent in the aging population. Mitral regurgitation often develops as a secondary complication of other cardiac conditions, and while it is common