The aim of this study is to assess the relationships between pulse pressure (PP) mean arterial pressure (MAP), clinical and lipid parameters in normotensive men. One hundred and twenty-seven normotensive men aged 35-64 years from the French department of Haute-Garonne were analysed. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using a random zero device. Correlation analysis was performed using Pearson's coefficient. Variables significantly related to PP and MAP were then introduced in a stepwise multiple regression analysis. On univariate analysis, PP was significantly and positively related to total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL and LDL-cholesterol and apo B. MAP was positively related to age, body mass index (BMI), triglycerides and VLDL-cholesterol. Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed only apo B to be independently related to PP after adjustment for MAP. Also, after adjustment for PP, only BMI and VLDL-cholesterol were related to MAP. Hence, MAP is related to BMI and VLDL-cholesterol, which are a common feature of hyperinsulinism. PP is linked to apo B, an important proatherogenic factor. These biological parameters appear specific of steady and pulsatile components of BP. The relationship between PP and apo B suggests a possible link between lipids and arterial stiffness, and may partly explain the prognostic value of PP in myocardial infarction.