In our study, the characteristics of the groups < 80 years and ≥ 80 years, are similar, however, the older subgroup was characterized by slightly greater percentage of men, lower frequency of smoking, two times higher prevalence of heart failure and higher median NT-pro BNP level, higher frequency of stroke, higher IL-6 concentration, lower DBP and lower LDL level. The gene discussed is NPPB; the disease is Stroke.