Target BP Research Articles

Assessment of metabolic control among the diabetics seeking care in primary care set-ups in Goa, India

The incidence of diabetic complications depends closely on the degree of metabolic control. The aims of this study are to assess the adherence of primary care physicians to diabetes care guidelines and to assess the degree of metabolic control among the study patients. Medical records of 330 patients, 30 from each of the talukas in Goa, were scrutinized to assess the degree of metabolic control and their laboratory work up. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) as an index of glycemic control was poorly utilized. Metabolic control was synonymized with glycemic control that to assessed on the basis of Fasting and Postprandial Blood sugar levels (FB/PPBSL). HbA1c target levels were achieved in 18.8 % of the patients, while 58.7, 72.9, and 91.9 %, respectively, achieved their HDL, LDL, and triglycerides target. The target BP of <130/<85 was not achieved in 105 (77.8 %) despite treatment. Bridging the gap between what is possible and what is actually achieved with the diabetics is of critical significance to prevent diabetes complications.

Hypertension in Chronic Glomerulonephritis.

Chronic glomerulonephritis (GN), which includes focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and proliferative forms of GN such as IgA nephropathy, increases the risk of hypertension. Hypertension in chronic GN is primarily volume dependent, and this increase in blood volume is not related to the deterioration of renal function. Patients with chronic GN become salt sensitive as renal damage including arteriolosclerosis progresses and the consequent renal ischemia causes the stimulation of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system(RAAS). Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system also contributes to hypertension in chronic GN. According to the KDIGO guideline, the available evidence indicates that the target BP should be ≤140mmHg systolic and ≤90mmHg diastolic in chronic kidney disease patients without albuminuria. In most patients with an albumin excretion rate of ≥30mg/24 h (i.e., those with both micro-and macroalbuminuria), a lower target of ≤130mmHg systolic and ≤80mmHg diastolic is suggested. The use of agents that block the RAAS system is recommended or suggested in all patients with an albumin excretion rate of ≥30mg/ 24 h. The combination of a RAAS blockade with a calcium channel blocker and a diuretic may be effective in attaining the target BP, and in reducing the amount of urinary protein excretion in patients with chronic GN.

RESULTS OF PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGIC STUDY OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION PIFAGOR IV: PHYSICIANS COMPLIANCE

Aim. To conduct the new stage of pharmaco-epidemiologic study of AH — PIFAGOR IV to study the structure and prevalence of various classes of antihypertensive drugs usage (ADU) in clinical practice. Material and methods. The study was conducted with physicians questionnaires usage (GPs, cardiologists), having the practice of AH patients treatment with specially developed questionnaires. Totally 1105 physicians studied (67,5% GPs, 28,1% cardiologists, 8,2% the others) from 73 cities and other places during the period from february to july 2013. Results. The ADU structure by physicians in AH patients includes 5 main recommended drug classes: ACE inhibitors (24,2%), b-adrenoblockers (18,9%), diuretics (18,9%), calcium channel antagonists (17,4%) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (16%), totally 95,4%. Other classes included: central-acting drugs — 3,4%, a-adrenoblockers — 1,2%. In ACE inhibitors class the main are five following: perindopril (20,3%), enalapril (18,3%), lisinopril (18,5%), ramipril (14,2%) and fosinopril (13,6%). In b-blocker class the main are bisoprolol (30,2%), metoprolol in modified and common compounds (25,2%), carvedilol (16%). Diuretic class consists by a half of indapamide (54,8%), torasemide (18,4%), hydrochlorothiazide (19,4%). In calicum antagonists the main are amlodipine (32,6%) including S-amlodipine (1,8%), nifedipine in various forms (21,5%), with modified release — 14,3%, verapamil in various forms (14,6%), diltiazem (13%). In ARBII the main are losartan (37,3%), valsartan (29,9%). Central drug class included moxonidine (74,1%), rilmenidine (8%), clopheline (18%). The part of physicians compliant to fixed drug combinations increased to 52,6%; the part of ACE inhibitors with calcium channel blockers increased to 29,1%, and decrease found for b-blockers with diuretic — 15,6%. Physicians use more adequate criteria for AHT and recommended criteria for treatment effectiveness control (target BP).Conclusion. Analysis of physicians compliance showed the relevance to national guidelines for diagnostics and treatment of AH; physicians actively use combination therapy and modern fixed dose compounds.

Обзор рекомендаций по ведению больных артериальной гипертензией: доказательства и экспертные мнения

The article presents the comparison study of 4 English-language recommendations of professional communities during 2013 year concerning the methods used for formulating recommendations; blood pressure levels - BP (primary, threshold and target); the group of primary agents and the treatment regimens.Conclusions. Different methods for formulating recommendations and the use of expert opinions in the absence of the evidences can lead to certain differences in the recommendations. It is not enough being agreed upon the questions concerning the primary and target BP level in elderly patients, the use of b-blockers as the group of primary agents, nowadays and the recommendations show the different treatment regimens.

Частота сердечных сокращений у больных артериальной гипертонией: возможный маркер повышенного риска или самостоятельная терапевтическая мишень?

The article shows the data concerning the effect of lowering the heart rate (HR) in patients with arterial hypertension (AH), in case of cardiovascular risk reduction in this category of patients. In the routine practice, the high HR can be considered as a possible cardiovascular risk factor, but HR is not included in the basic risk calculators as part of primary prevention. The European AH experts advise to prescribe the drugs with the effect of lowering the heart rate in people with subjective poor tolerance to the tachycardia. The patients should be informed about the beneficial effects of the regular aerobic physical activity concerning the management of HR and BP. The Achieving target BP levels is remained the main priority in the management of patient with hypertensive disease.

IMPROVEMENT OF AMLODIPINE CONTROL EFFICACY OVER HYPERTENSION USING FIXED COMBINATION OF PERINDOPRIL ARGININE AND AMLODIPINE

Aim. To evaluate possibilities of hypertension control improvement using fixed combination of perindopril arginine and amlodipine. Material and methods. Totally 46 patients studied (25 men, 21 women of the age 53,6±4,3y.)with arterial hypertension 2-3 grade. All patients underwent ABPM with analysis of the following: mean 24-hour BP, velocity of morning SBP and DBP rise, BP variability of Ps BP (VPsBPd, VPsBPn). The criteria of inclusion were insufficient control over hypertension while using free combinations of ACE inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blockers and diuretic or calcium channel blocker. To control arterial hypertension all patients were prescribed the fixed combination of perindopril arginine/amlodipine it standard dosage 10/5 mg (Prestans, Les Laboratories Servier, France) with further possible increase of dosage up to 10/10 mg. Results. While receiving the therapy 84,7% patients reached BP. Mean 24-hour SBP decreased from 139,24±1,8to 121,13+1,22 mmHg (p<0,05), DBP decreased from 84,51±2,08 to 73,14±1,4 (p<0,05), mean BP decreased from 103,07±1,56 to 87,66±1,13 (p<0,05). 24-hour variability of SBP significantly decreased from 15,28±0,72 to 10,21±0,42 (p<0,05), DBP from 13,46±0,72 to 10,72±0,31 (p<0,001). Values of VMR after the treatment also decreased. Before treatment VMR of SBP was 27±3,26 mmHg/hour, on therapy — 15,3±5,04 mmHg/hour, (p<0,01); the same for DBP — VMR decreased from 23,6±2,37 mmHg/hour to 11±1,62mmHg, (p<0,01). Conclusion. The usage of combined perindopril arginine/amlodipine in patients with former uncontrolled arterial hypertension at the background of free chosen antihypertensive drugs combinations succeeded in the target BP values achievement in 84,7% cases. The reached control over BP was successful daily and during the night, as over variability of BP and velocity of morning BP rise. Usage of fixed combination of perindopril arginine/amlodipine was marked with good tolerability and high patients' compliance.

Результаты фармакоэпидемиологического исследования артериальной гипертонии ПИФАГОР IV (опрос пациентов с артериальной гипертонией)

Group of researchers analytical group of PIFAGOR IV study The aim is to study the next step of pharmacoepidemiology of arterial hypertension (AH) in Russia to evaluate the structure and frequency of different classes of antihypertensive drugs (AHD) usage in clinical practice.Material and methods. The prospective pharmacoepidemiological multicenter study (PIFAGOR IV). We interrogated AH patients using special prepared questionnaires. The collection of questionnaires took place from February to July, 2013. The study included 2533 valid questionnaires from 52 cities and towns of Russia.Results. 80% of the patients regularly take AHD; 32.8% of patients receive monotherapy, 38.6% receive two AHD combinations, 28.4% - 3 or more AHD combinations. The average number of AHD was 2.02 per patient. The structure of AHD consisted of 5 recommended classes: ACE inhibitors (27.8%), -adrenergic receptor blocking agents (21.7%), diuretics (15.7%), calcium antagonists (11.3%) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (10.7%), fixed combination - 10.8%. Additional proportion of classes: central-acting agents - 2.3% and b-adrenoceptor blocking agents - 0.1%. Among the ACE inhibitors the main share had 3 drugs: enalapril (33.6%), perindopril (16%), and lisinopril (13%). In b-blockers class the main share had 2 drugs - bisoprolol (64.4%), and usual form of release and modified release dosage form of metoprolol (the total share 21,4%). Indapamide of standard and retard form took the first place in the structure of diuretics (the total share 75%). In calcium antagonists class the main share had amlodipine (55.8%). The main drug in ARBs II was losartan (55.4%). Central-acting agent class was consisted of moxonidine (66%), methyldopa (17%) and clonidine (5%). For about 76% of cases were presented by combinations containing diuretics and 24% - by combinations containing calcium antagonists among the fixed combinations. The proportion of original drugs in the structure of AHD was 38.3%. The average BP level in patients was 140.4/86.4 mm Hg and the blood pressure targets were determined in 50.2% of cases. A high degree of compliance according to the Morisky-Green test indicated in 32%, low compliance - in 49% of cases.Conclusions. We noted the reduction of ACE inhibitors proportion and increase of ARBs II proportion, increase of fixed combinations in the structure of AHD. However, we noticed the decrease of the treatment efficacy in patients with AH using average BP level and achievement of the target BP, as well as the average number of AHD.

EVALUATION OF AN INTERRELATION OF TARGET BLOOD PRESSURE ACHIEVEMENT AND COMPLICATIONS AND OUTCOMES OF PREGNANCY IN ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Aim. To evaluate the influence of target BP achievement on clinical course and outcomes of pregnancy in pregnant women with arterial hypertension (AH).Material and methods. A cohort study with prospective cohort. Totally 300 pregnant women included; of those in to the 1st group 103 included with AH, who had not reached target BP; into the 2nd – 97 women with AH, who had reached target BP; control consisted of 100 women without AH. Women underwent clinical examination and observation, analysis of medical data, standard laboratory and instrumental investigation, genetic investigation by polymerase chain reaction.Results. Women who had not reached target BP pregnancy complicated more often with fetus development retardation and pre-eclampsy, and in pregancy outcomes there were preterm delivery and antenatal fetus death, newborns from this group had lower weight and height; also they had more often mutation of D-allele of ACE gene (I/D) and mutant C-allele of receptor 1 type angiotensine II gene (ATR11166 A/C) comparing to the group with achieved BP and with controls. By the result of logistic regression study the factor independently associated with total worse outcome, were premature deliveries in anamnesis - increase the risk almost 6 times (OR=5,93, 95% CI 1,83-19,2; p=0,003), pre-eclampsy during current preganancy – increases risk 3,7 times (OR=3,68, 95% CI 1,48-9,16; p=0,005), and target BP acievement (less than 140/90 mmHg) decreases the risk of total negative outcome 8 times (OR=0,12, 95% CI 0,05-0,28; p&lt;0,001).Conclusion. Target BP achievement in pregnant women with AH might be an independent factor influencing the prevalence of obstetric complications and negative outcomes of pregnancy. A definite impact on target BP levels achievement make genetic polymorphisms of renin-angiotensin system genes.

Older age is a strong predictor for poor outcome in intracerebral haemorrhage: the INTERACT2 study.

Global ageing contributes greatly to the burden of stroke. We investigated the influence of age on the baseline profile and on outcomes in acute intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) among participants of the INTERACT2 study. INTERACT2 was an international, randomised controlled trial in 2839 patients with spontaneous ICH within 6 h of onset and elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP; 150-220 mmHg) who were allocated to receive intensive (target SBP <140 mmHg within 1 h) or guideline-recommended (target SBP <180 mmHg) blood pressure lowering treatment. Stroke severity was assessed with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale. Poor outcome was defined as death or major disability ('dependency', modified Rankin Scale scores 3-6) at 90 days. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed with the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire. Associations between age and outcomes were analysed in multivariable logistic regression models. Stroke severity increased in categories of older age (P-trend 0.002). Stroke patients over 75 years old were four times more likely to die or be disabled at 90 days than those <52 years when other confounders were accounted for (odds ratio 4.36, 95% confidence interval 3.12-6.08). Older age was also associated with decreasing HRQoL, across mobility, self-care, usual activities and depression (all P-trend <0.001), and pain or discomfort (P-trend 0.022). In the INTERACT2 cohort, older people had more severe ICH and worse outcomes (death, major disability and HRQoL). These data will help guide clinicians manage older people with haemorrhagic stroke. http://www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00716079).

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a systematic review of international clinical practice guidelines.

BackgroundClinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are developed to assist health care providers in decision-making. We systematically reviewed existing CPGs on the HDPs (hypertensive disorders of pregnancy) to inform clinical practice.Methodology & Principal FindingsMEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register, Health Technology Assessments, and Database of s of Reviews of Effects (Ovid interface), Grey Matters, Google Scholar, and personal records were searched for CPGs on the HDPs (Jan/03 to Nov/13) in English, French, Dutch, or German. Of 13 CPGs identified, three were multinational and three developed for community/midwifery use. Length varied from 3–1188 pages and three guidelines did not formulate recommendations. Eight different grading systems were identified for assessing evidence quality and recommendation strength. No guideline scored ≧80% on every domain of the AGREE II, a tool for assessing guideline methodological quality; two CPGs did so for 5/6 domains. Consistency was seen for (i) definitions of hypertension, proteinuria, chronic and gestational hypertension; (ii) pre-eclampsia prevention for women at increased risk: calcium when intake is low and low-dose aspirin, but not vitamins C and E or diuretics; (iii) antihypertensive treatment of severe hypertension; (iv) MgSO4 for eclampsia and severe pre-eclampsia; (v) antenatal corticosteroids at <34 wks when delivery is probable within 7 days; (vi) delivery for women with severe pre-eclampsia pre-viability or pre-eclampsia at term; and (vii) active management of the third stage of labour with oxytocin. Notable inconsistencies were in: (i) definitions of pre-eclampsia and severe pre-eclampsia; (ii) target BP for non-severe hypertension; (iii) timing of delivery for women with pre-eclampsia and severe pre-eclampsia; (iv) MgSO4 for non-severe pre-eclampsia, and (v) postpartum maternal monitoring.ConclusionsExisting international HDP CPGs have areas of consistency with which clinicians and researchers can work to develop auditable standards, and areas of inconsistency that should be addressed by future research.

Treatment of hypertension in children with chronic kidney disease.

Hypertension (HTN) is increasingly recognized as a common feature of pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD). A growing body of evidence demonstrates that HTN is both underdiagnosed and undertreated in this population. The consequences of untreated HTN include adverse effects on CKD progression, markers of cardiovascular morbidity, and neurocognitive functioning. Consensus guidelines issued over the past decade have incorporated recent research on the consequences of HTN in recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of HTN in pediatric CKD and include lower BP targets. Agents which target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) should be considered first-line therapy in CKD-associated HTN in children, though multiple medications may be required to achieve sufficient BP control.

Гендерные особенности эффективности комбинированной антигипертензивной терапии у пациентов с артериальной гипертонией и ишемической болезнью сердца

Aim. To evaluate gender specifics of the efficacy of combination antihypertensive therapy by zofenopril and valsartan by QD or BID schedule in patients with arterial (AH) and stable coronary heart disease (CHD). Material and methods. Totally 98 men and 100 women were included with AH and CHD, who were randomized into 6 groups according to their gender differences and type of the therapy taken: I and IV groups (women and men) – zofenopril 30 mg/day in the morning, II and V groups (women and men) – valsartan 160 mg in the morning, III and VI groups (men and women) – valsartan 80 BID. All patients took β-adrenoblocker metoprolol succinate and diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. Follow-up period was 24 weeks. At the baseline and in 24 weeks, also ambulatory blood pressure monitoring performed (ABPM). Results. In men zofenopril intake and valsartan BID led to the achievement of target blood pressure values in most of the patients, as significant increase of the main ABPM parameters and profile normalization in 70% and 66,7% patients, resp. In women there were more patients with target BP, more significant positive changes in ABPM with “dipper” profile in 78,8% cases in the group of BID valsartan. Conclusion. In AH and stable CHD maximum antihypertensive efficacy in men was shown with ACE inhibitor zofenopril and ARA valsartan BID, in women – in valsartan, especially two times per day.

Achievement of metabolic control goals set by the American Diabetes Association and the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes from Spain

AimThe “T1D Exchange Clinic Registry” of 13.316 pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in U.S. recently revealed that most children have HbA1c values above target levels established by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD). The aim of this study is to assess the proportion of youngsters with T1D who meet the internationally accepted targets for good metabolic control of diabetes at a single, referral Pediatric Diabetes Center in Spain. Patients and methodsCross-sectional study of 236 children and adolescents with T1D controlled at our Pediatric Diabetes Unit. We analyzed the compliance to metabolic goals set by ADA and ISPAD and the differences between patients treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and multiple daily injections. Statistics: SPSS™ version 21.0. ResultsMean age: 12.6±4.6 years old, mean age at diagnosis: 6.1±4.3 years old and mean diabetes duration: 6.4±4.3 years; 47% female. HbA1c average: 6.7±0.7% (49.7±7.6mmol/mol). The age-specific ADA and ISPAD HbA1c targets were achieved by 93% and 91% of patients, respectively. Among pump users, 97%/97% met ADA/ISPAD HbA1c targets compared to 87%/88% of MDI users (p=0.04/p=0.03), without significant differences in the analysis by groups of age. Among participants, 95%, 62%, 95%, 98% and 89% met HDLc, LDLc, triglycerides, BP and BMI targets. ConclusionsMost patients in our children and adolescent cohort of T1D patients correctly achieve metabolic goals established by ADA and ISPAD with low incidence of hypoglycemia.

Education and self-education of the patients is an important step towards increasing patients acceptance of therapy

The blood pressure level control and the long-term administration of anti-hypertensive agents are of high priority and play key role in treatment of patients with hypertension in the outpatient setting. This paper analyzes the short-term and long-term results of the education of patients with AH in a patient's School, and the effectiveness of the education concerning acceptance of therapy among these category of patients.Aim. To analyze received knowledge of the patients with arterial hypertension associated with LVH at patient's School compared to the control group and the study of the degree of patients acceptance of therapy and quality of life of both group of patients during the study.Material and methods. We underwent 13 cycles of education (course of education lessons with duration of 6 weeks, lessons 1 time per week). Topics and the duration of lessons (90 minutes), as well as the number of patients enrolled in the groups (8-10 people), corresponding to norms approved by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. We educated 128 patients with AH (there were 66 patients with AH with out association with LVH and 27 patients, associated with LVH). The control group consisted of 65 patients with AH who had refused toattend patient's School for various reasons (41 patients without association with LVH and 24-associated with LVH).The Groups of patients educated/failed the education were matched by sex, age, duration of AH, BMI, levels of SBP and DBP. Instrumental and laboratory studies (general clinical examination, ECG, biochemical analysis of blood) were underwent before the treatment, at the end of the education cycle and in 24-months of outpatient treatment.Results. Patients who had been educated at the patient's School showed the statistically significant reduction of the BP level. In the end of School the systolic BP was 139,3±7,4 mm Hg and the diastolic BP - 86,2±5,4 mm Hg (p=0,0001). Patients in the control group also showed statistically significant reduction of BP during last visit, however, the degree of BP reduction in this group was statistically significant lower. The target BP was observed in 79% in the first group of patients and 54% in the second group of patients (p=0,003). Dynamics of the quality of life, estimated by the visual analog scale (VAS) was statistically significant higher in the group of patients, attending School (p=0,001). Acceptance of therapy among patients who had been visiting the School, significantly increased, but the statistically significant changes in acceptance of therapy in the second group of patients were not observed. Questioning and examination of the patients one year later, showed that in the group of patients who had received one cycle of education in the School, the BP level remained statistically significant below the basal value (SBP 142,3±5,7 and DBP 88,5±4,3 mm Hg, p

Perioperative acute hypertension-role of Clevidipine butyrate.

Arterial hypertension (AH) is one of the most common pathological conditions affecting the general population which contributes to pathogenesis of various diseases and worsens the treatment outcome (James et al., 2014). It increases the perioperative morbidity and mortality, frequently result in cancelation of surgical procedures and increases treatment-associated costs (Handler, 2006). Perioperative hypertension may occur in patients with pre-existing arterial hypertension or manifest as a de novo phenomenon (Vuylsteke et al., 2000; Varon and Marik, 2008). Induction of general anesthesia is related with significant stress and sympathetic over-activation. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) in normotensive patients may increase by up to 20–30 mm Hg, while hypertensive patients may have an exaggerated reaction—SBP in these patients may increase up to 90 mm Hg (Ahuja and Charap, 2010). On the other hand, anesthesia-induced sympathetic suppression with diminished baroreceptor reflex takes place during the maintenance phase which frequently causes sustained arterial hypotension. Postoperatively, these patients present with labile BP, frequent and rebound hypertension, and have an increased risk of postoperative complications (Goldman and Caldera, 1979; Wolfsthal, 1993). Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC-7 and JNC-8) classifications and guidelines are currently applicable to perioperative patients as well (James et al., 2014; Chobanian et al., 2003). According to JNC-7 guidelines for evaluation and treatment of hypertensive emergencies, an immediate intervention is required in cases of hypertensive emergencies to reduce the SBP by 10–15% (no more than 25%) within the first hour. Reduction of the absolute BP to 160/110 mmHg should be done gradually over the following 2–6 h (Aggarwal and Khan, 2006; Flanigan and Vitberg, 2006; Pollack and Varon, 2008; Varon, 2008; De Gaudio et al., 2009; Hays and Wilkerson, 2010; Kuppasani and Reddi, 2010; Smithburger et al., 2010; Polly et al., 2011). Only in patients with aortic dissection, the SBP should be reduced to less than 120 mmHg within 20 min. In hypertensive emergencies associated with ischemic stroke, BP must be decreased to less than 180/110 before thrombolytic therapy may be administered (Pollack and Varon, 2008; Varon, 2008; De Gaudio et al., 2009; Hays and Wilkerson, 2010; Polly et al., 2011). Abrupt BP reduction should be avoided as it can result in critical blood flow reduction and ischemic end organ damage (Varon, 2008; De Gaudio et al., 2009; Smithburger et al., 2010; Polly et al., 2011). Since overshooting a target BP in hypertensive patients is associated with worse outcome, many treatment protocols require invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring during anesthesia in high risk cases (Pollack and Varon, 2008; Rhoney and Peacock, 2009). Hypertensive emergencies should be treated aggressively, using quick-onset intravenous medications, whereas hypertensive urgencies do not always require such aggressive treatment. Longer acting oral medications (labetalol, clonidine, etc.) may be more appropriate in situations of hypertensive urgency. However, caution should be exercised when using antihypertensive agents in the acute setting. An overly aggressive treatment approach may lead to organ hypoperfusion (Rodriguez et al., 2010). Once the immediate threat of organ damage is diminished, BP should be gradually brought to baseline level within a period of 24–48 h (Peacock et al., 2009). Characteristics of an ideal intravenous hypertensive agent are rapid onset and offset of action, low risk of hypotension, minimal drug interaction with other medications, lack of adverse reactions, wide therapeutic window, ease of titration, preservation of renal and hepatic functions, selectivity, low cost, possibility of easy transition to oral therapy, predictable response, and lack of effects on intracranial pressure (Levy, 1999; Oparil et al., 1999). Multiple intravenous medications are currently used to control the BP in the perioperative period, and all these medications have specific advantages and limitations (Kurnutala et al., 2013). Selection of an optimal antihypertensive therapy for the perioperative period depends on the patient’s individual characteristics and locally adopted guidelines (Pollack and Varon, 2008; Belsha, 2013). Clevidipine butyrate is a Ca2+-channel antagonist that acts on the L-type Ca2+

ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AMONG INDIVIDUALS OF 25–64 YEARS OLD: PREVALENCE, AWARENESS, TREATMENT AND CONTROL. BY THE DATA FROM ECCD

Aim. To study prevalence of arterial hypertension (AH), mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), awareness of patients about their disease, medication consumption (MC) and efficacy of treatment in several regions of Russia.Material and methods. Representative selections were made in 9 regions of Russia: men (n=5563), women (n=9737) of 25–64 y.o., studied in 2012–2013 with the response 80%. Systematic stratified multilevel random selection was formed with localilty criteria (Kisch method). The Questionnaire on the presence of AH included: awareness of the patient about his disease, drug intake. BP measurement was performed on the right arm by automatic tonometer Omron in sitting position after 5 minutes resting. The mean value of two measurements was used. BP defined as SBP ≥140 mmHg, DBP ≥90 mmHg, or if the patient had taken antihypertensive therapy. Efficacy of treatment — the part of patients (in %) who reached target BP. Control group — part of patients (in %) with BP &lt;140/90 mmHg. Statistic data calculation was done with computer-based statistic software — SAS with standardising by age stratification of Europe.Results. Mean SBP and DBP were 130,7±0,1 mmHg and 81,6±0,1 mmHg respectively. Prevalence of AH — 44%, higher in men (p&lt;0,001). Prevalence of AH was higher in rural area citizens in men — 51,8% vs 47,5% (р&lt;0,02) and in women — 42,9% vs 40,2% (р&lt;0,05). Awareness was 67,5% in men, 78,9% in women. Medications were taken by 60,9% of women and 39,5% of men. Effectively treated were 53,5% of women and 41,4% of men. With the age the part of effectively treated decreases (p&lt;0,0005). BP is under control only in 1/3 of women and 14,4% of men.Conclusion. The role of AH as one of the main modifiable risk factors of cardiovascular diseases is proved, however it is depressing that the percent of controlled AH is low. BP control is the main task of outpatient surveillance at every local outpatient department, where now less than a half of those affected are being observed.

Commentary on the 2014 BP guidelines from the panel appointed to the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8).

The recently published article "2014 Evidence-based guideline for the management of high blood pressure in adults: Report from the panel members appointed to the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8)" (James et al., JAMA 311: 507-520, 2014) has generated considerable controversy. In this commentary, we evaluate the document and compare the recommendations contained within it with those of the JNC 7 and other national and international guidelines. The evidence quality rating approach followed by the article "2014 Evidence-based guideline for the management of high blood pressure in adults: Report from the panel members appointed to the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8)" (James et al., JAMA 311: 507-520, 2014) disqualified nearly 98% of previous studies from review; as a result, some of the key recommendations were on the basis of expert opinion alone. We are especially concerned that the recommendation to raise the systolic/diastolic BP levels at which treatment is initiated to ≥150/≥90 mmHg in adults≥60 years old may affect cardiovascular and renal health in these patients. Additionally, we recommend that hypertension guidelines should be updated every 3-4 years with a fresh approach to the definition of target BP levels, the use of modern technology in the diagnosis of hypertension, and the treatment of hypertension in special populations not addressed in earlier guidelines.

Next generation sequencing challenges in the analysis of cardiac sudden death due to arrhythmogenic disorders.

Inherited arrhythmogenic disorders is a relatively common cause of cardiac sudden death in young people. Diagnosis has been difficult so far due to the genetic heterogeneity of the disease. Next generation sequencing (NGS) is offering a new scenario for diagnosis. The purpose of our study was to validate NGS for the analysis of twenty-eight genes known to be associated with inherited arrhythmogenic disorders and therefore with sudden cardiac death. SureSelect hybridization was used to enrich DNA from 53 samples, prior to be sequenced with the SOLID™ System of Life Technologies. Depth of coverage, consistency of coverage across samples, and location of variants identified were assessed. All the samples showed a depth of coverage over 200×, except one of them discarded because of its coverage below 30×. Average percentage of target bp covered at least 20× was 96.45%. In the remaining samples, following a prioritization process 46 possible variants in 31 samples were found, of which 45 were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. After filtering variants according to their minor allele frequency in the Exome Sequencing Project 27 putative pathogenic variants in 20 samples remained. With the use of in silico tools, 13 variants in 11 samples were classified as likely pathogenic. In conclusion, NGS allowed us to accurately detect arrhythmogenic disease causing mutations in a fast and cost-efficient manner that is suitable for daily clinical and forensic practice of genetic testing of this type of disorders.

Antihypertensive Treatment and Kidney Function in Routine Practice in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Results of the Prospective "The Scythian" Trial in Ukraine

Background : Hypertension, albuminuria and decreased GFR are regarded as independent risk factors that reflect progression of the diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We carried out second phase of prospective study which aim was to learn the possibility of implementation of intensive antihypertensive therapy into the routine clinical practice and assessment of such treatment influence on kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods : In the study 637 patients were included with DKD and arterial hypertension with BP level more than 130/80 mmHg and less than 1800 mmHg, having chronic kidneys disease (CKD) 1-4. As a basis for intensive antihypertensive treatment fixed combination of perindopril 5 mg and indapamide 1.25 mg were prescribed. If needed, after 4 weeks the dosage was increased up to perindopril 10 mg/ indapamide 2.5 mg to achieve targeted BP less that 130/80 mmHg. If targeted BP had not been achieved other antihypertensive preparations were added. Results : After 4 weeks of treatment average levels of systolic and diastolic BP were 141.3±0.5 and 86.3±0.3, after 8 weeks of therapy – 131.6±0.4 and 81.3±0.3 mmHg, and after 12 weeks of treatment –127.2±0.3 and 78.7±0.2 mmHg respectively. Target BP was achieved in 489 patients (73.3%) during 12 weeks of treatment. Statistically significant increase of GFR as a result of 12 weeks of antihypertensive therapy with fixed perindopril/indapamide combination was found to be between 84.3±1.1 and 94.7±1.1 ml/min./1,73m2, р&lt;0.01. Conclusion : Antihypertensive therapy with fixed combination of perindopril 5-10 mg/indapamide 1.25-2.5 mg introduced into routine clinical practice of T2DM patients’ treatment, is effective for BP reduction, achievement of its targeted values and resulted in statistically significant trend to kidney function improvement.

To compare the effect of Telmisartan with Metoprolol on arterial stiffness in hypertension: Prospective randomized parallel group trial

BackgroundHypertension is often complicated by increased arterial stiffness and is an independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular (CV) outcome. Beta blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly used antihypertensive agents. The effect of beta blockers and ARBs on arterial stiffness has not been compared adequately. The aim of the present study is to compare the effect of telmisartan with metoprolol on arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients in prospective open label randomized parallel group intervention study. Methods100 patients of hypertension, not on any antihypertensive agents, were enrolled after obtaining informed consent. Baseline recording of data related to demographics, CV risk factors, anthropometry and BP were made. Arterial stiffness was measured noninvasively by recording pulse wave velocity (PWV) using periscope (Genesis medical system). Left ventricular (LV) mass was measured using 2D guided M-mode echocardiography. Blood sugar, renal function, lipids and uric acid estimations were done in fasting state. Patients were randomized to receive metoprolol and telmisartan using stratified randomization technique. Dose of the study drugs were titrated to achieve target BP of <140/90 mmHg. Data related to PWV, BP, anthropometry and blood biochemistry was repeated after 6 months of treatment with study drugs. ResultsTelmisartan resulted in significantly greater reduction in arterial stiffness index (ASI) in left and right lower limb arterial bed (39.9 ± 11.7 vs. 46.8 ± 17.0 m/s, p < 0.02) and (36.4 ± 9.6 vs. 44.86 ± 15.1 m/s, p < 0.002) respectively and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (−4.9 mmHg with 95% C.I. of −8.0–1.7 mmHg, p < 0.003) compared to metoprolol. Reduction in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in telmisartan and metoprolol groups was not different statistically (−1.0 mmHg with 95% C.I. of −3.3–1.2 mmHg, p < 0.3). The change in LV mass was not significantly different between the study groups (135.5 ± 37.6 vs. 143.2 ± 41.5, p < 0.3).