Cardiovascular Risk Factors In Patients Research Articles

Liver fibrosis is associated with left ventricular remodeling: insight into the liver-heart axis.

In nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), liver fibrosis is the strongest predictor of adverse outcomes. We sought to investigate the relationship between liver fibrosis and cardiac remodeling in participants from the general population using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as explore potential mechanistic pathways by analyzing circulating cardiovascular biomarkers. In this cross-sectional study, we prospectively included participants with type 2 diabetes and individually matched controls from the SCAPIS (Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study) cohort in Linköping, Sweden. Between November 2017 and July 2018, participants underwent MRI at 1.5 Tesla for quantification of liver proton density fat fraction (spectroscopy), liver fibrosis (stiffness from elastography), left ventricular (LV) structure and function, as well as myocardial native T1 mapping. We analyzed 278 circulating cardiovascular biomarkers using a Bayesian statistical approach. In total, 92 participants were enrolled (mean age 59.5 ± 4.6 years, 32 women). The mean liver stiffness was 2.1 ± 0.4 kPa. 53 participants displayed hepatic steatosis. LV concentricity increased across quartiles of liver stiffness. Neither liver fat nor liver stiffness displayed any relationships to myocardial tissue characteristics (native T1). In a regression analysis, liver stiffness was related to increased LV concentricity. This association was independent of diabetes and liver fat (Beta = 0.26, p = 0.0053), but was attenuated (Beta = 0.17, p = 0.077) when also adjusting for circulating levels of interleukin-1 receptor type 2. MRI reveals that liver fibrosis is associated to structural LV remodeling, in terms of increased concentricity, in participants from the general population. This relationship could involve the interleukin-1 signaling. Liver fibrosis may be considered a cardiovascular risk factor in patients without cirrhosis. Further research on the mechanisms that link liver fibrosis to left ventricular concentricity may reveal potential therapeutic targets in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Previously, studies on liver fibrosis and cardiac remodeling have focused on advanced stages of liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis is associated with left ventricular (LV) concentricity and may relate to interleukin-1 receptor type 2. Interleukin-1 signaling is a potential mechanistic interlink between early liver fibrosis and LV remodeling.

#1299 The SGLT2 inhibitor canagliflozin, but not dapagliflozin or empagliflozin, ameliorates vascular calcification in a mouse model of nephrocalcinosis

Abstract Background and Aims Vascular calcification, defined as the abnormal deposition of minerals in blood vessels, is a major cardiovascular risk factor in patients with kidney failure. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, commonly known as gliflozins, are a class of pharmaceutical compounds that have revolutionised the therapeutic management of type 2 diabetes. These drugs target the SGLT2 transporter, increasing glucose elimination through the urine, effectively lowering hyperglycaemia. In addition to their effect on blood sugar control, SGLT2 inhibitors have recently gained attention for potential cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD) or established cardiovascular disease. Initially thought to be secondary to the promotion of urinary sodium and glucose excretion and weight loss, recent studies have also reported direct effects of gliflozins on the vascular compartment. Given the significant impact of vascular calcification on cardiovascular health in patients with kidney failure, the aim of this study was to investigate whether the three different SGLT2 inhibitors (canagliflozin, empagliflozin and dapagliflozin) could reduce the development of vascular calcification. Method Western blotting was used to investigate SGLT2 expression in mouse and human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and vascular explants. Human and mouse aortic VSMC and mouse aorta and human epigastric and iliac artery segments were treated with calcification medium supplemented with 1 or 5 µM of gliflozins. A nephrocalcinosis mouse model consisting of 2 weeks of high phosphorus diet (2%) in female DBA/2 mice was used in in vivo experiments. The animals were treated daily with the different gliflozins (3 mg/kg/j) by oral gavage. Calcium deposits were quantified using a quantitative colorimetric assay and alizarin red staining, blood and urine glucose levels were measured using a quantitative colorimetric assay and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured using sinistrin-FITC excretion. Results We observed that SGLT2 is expressed in mouse and human vessels and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Treatment with canagliflozin, but not dapagliflozin or empagliflozin, reduced calcification in vitro, in human and mouse VSMC and ex vivo, in mouse aorta and human epigastric and iliac artery segments. The high phosphorus diet in mice led to nephrocalcinosis associated with impaired renal function as well as vascular calcification development in the aorta. In this model, although all 3 gliflozins showed efficacy in increasing urinary glucose excretion, blood glucose levels were not affected by gliflozins and renal function was not improved. However, canagliflozin, but not dapagliflozin or empagliflozin, significantly reduced vascular calcification in this nephrocalcinosis mouse model. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that canagliflozin reduces vascular calcification development, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic strategy. This protective effect was found to be drug-dependent and not class-dependent, as the other two SGLT2 inhibitors, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, showed no significant effect on vascular calcification. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms and pathways involved and to determine whether the differential effect of the gliflozins is due to an off-target action of canagliflozin on other SGLT transporters.

Can smartphone-based diabetes control apps improve cardiovascular risk among patients with diabetes? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Despite being the most prevalent complication, cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, weight, and lipid profile have been less considered in digital health studies. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to gather evidence regarding the impact of digital health applications on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with diabetes. Literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guideline on September 4, 2023, using databases including PubMed, Scilit, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, with a pre-planned combination of keywords. Selected studies were original research reporting the influence of smartphone applications on cardiovascular risk factors in diabetic patients. Standardized mean differences (SMD) between the intervention and control groups were analyzed using fixed or random-effects models. Eighteen studies met the criteria, consisting of 1152 patients in the intervention group and 1072 patients in the control group. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the smartphone applications significantly controlled systolic blood pressure (SMD: -5.03 mmHg; 95%CI: -7.018, -3.041, p<0.001). There was no significance effect on weight, body mass index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) and diastolic blood pressure. In the subgroup analysis, triglycerides were lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (SMD: -0.459%; 95%CI: -0.787, -0.132, p=0.006). Publication bias and the limited number of studies suggest that the evidence from this study is in moderate level. In conclusion, smartphone apps are not only effective in aiding blood sugar control but also in preventing cardiovascular issues in diabetic patients. Further research is still needed to confirm these findings.

Cardiovascular Risk Management In Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune chronic inflammatory joint disease associated with pain, swelling, and morning stiffness. It not only affects the joints but also exhibits many extra-articular manifestations. It is recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) abnormalities. The possibility of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in patients with RA is about twofold higher compared to non-RA individuals. Therefore, early risk assessment and management of risk factors are crucial to reduce the CV morbidity and mortality associated with RA. This systematic literature review summarizes the data available on the management of CVD risk factors in RA. A total of 61 articles from the most reputable journals published between 2013 and 2023 were reviewed, of which seven papers were selected for in-depth analysis. We tried to eliminate bias using various bias-eliminating tools. This analysis considers the proposed solution for CV risk prevention and management in RA patients. Optimal control of disease activity and persistent monitoring of other factors responsible for increased CV events in RA patients is the ultimate management of CV abnormalities. This study summarizes the recommendations for the management of CV risk factors in patients with RA.

Increased cardiovascular risk in epilepsy.

Epilepsy is associated with increased mortality. Cardiovascular disease confers a significant portion of this increased risk. Recently there is increased interest in the burden of cardiovascular mortality in people with epilepsy. This review discusses the most common cardiovascular risk factors and their association with epilepsy including obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia related to the use of enzyme inducing anti-seizure medications is also discussed as a topic that is of particular importance to prescribers that have patients with comorbid cardiovascular risk and epilepsy. Heart rate variability (HRV) and its association with SUDEP is discussed as well as a contributor to vascular risk. Finally, the authors discuss a potential role for neurologists who treat epilepsy to engage closer with their patient's cardiovascular risk factors using available tools such as a the ASCVD score calculator to determine the overall risk of mortality, as well as acting upon this information to guide treatment approaches integrating the information provided in this review.

Disentangling the Diagnoses of Psychotic Depression, Catatonia, Neurocognitive Disorders, and Delirium: A Multidisciplinary Approach

An ambiguous clinical presentation can create diagnostic uncertainty, leading to delays in effective interventions and increasing the likelihood of adverse clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, many psychiatric conditions share overlapping clinical symptoms. Psychotic depression, catatonia, neurocognitive disorders, and delirium are all examples of distinct clinical conditions with overlapping symptomatology, and all require decidedly different therapeutic interventions. While much literature is devoted to the diagnostic criteria and management of these clinical conditions, little is dedicated to the challenge of disentangling these diagnoses when faced with a complex clinical presentation.We present here a complicated psychiatric inpatient hospitalization of a 77-year-old male who exemplified this diagnostic challenge. He primarily presented with severely depressed mood and decreased functionality, remaining in bed for much of the day with little attention to basic hygiene and oral intake. While records from a recent outside hospitalization carried a historical diagnosis of catatonia, his moderate level of engagement with providers and somatic delusion of disseminated prostate cancer suggested an alternate diagnosis of psychotic depression. However, before a diagnostic conclusion could be reached, other clinical characteristics surfaced. Following a singular administration of olanzapine shortly after his initial assessment, he developed Lilliputian hallucinations, prominent parkinsonism, and significantly altered mentation.Neuroleptic sensitivity raised clinical suspicion for an underlying neurocognitive disorder such as dementia with Lewy bodies, and a consult was placed to the neuropsychology service. While dementia could not be fully ruled out, they did recommend additional workup to rule out herpes simplex encephalitis, autoimmune limbic encephalitis, and paraneoplastic syndromes. After his MRI imaging revealed moderate microvascular ischemic changes, a true multidisciplinary approach to care was taken, as neurology was consulted to also help narrow the differential. An EEG was unremarkable and a serum encephalitis panel was also unremarkable. Olanzapine was discontinued with significant improvement in parkinsonism and cognition; however, severe neurovegetative symptoms and somatic and nihilistic delusions persisted. While antipsychotics remained clinically indicated for a suspected depression with psychotic features, caution was taken due to established neuroleptic sensitivity, subtle catatonic features, and the related risks of neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Ultimately, low-dose quetiapine was initiated with some benefit; however, he continued to remain acutely depressed and withdrawn with prominent negativism. Trials with benzodiazepines for these catatonic features were also approached with caution to avoid potential risks of delirium.Over time, a multidisciplinary approach to psychopharmacologic interventions and medication trials led the team to a principal diagnosis of major depressive disorder with psychotic features and subtle catatonia. The abrupt changes observed early in the hospital course were determined to be related to olanzapine-induced anticholinergic delirium. With greater diagnostic certainty, the team was able to counsel the patient and family about the importance of pursuing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The patient's cardiovascular risk factors and known microvascular changes were considered in the determination of the appropriateness for ECT. After starting ECT, he was immediately noted to have objective improvement, and following his fifth treatment, he was deemed appropriate for discharge after exhibiting significant improvement in depression and functionality and reporting near-resolution of somatic delusions. He was able to complete ECT on an outpatient basis and follow-up visits note durable improvements in mood, functionality, and quality of life, continuing to enjoy an active lifestyle of socializing with family and playing tennis. We use this case to further explore the clinical challenges that stem from the symptomatic similarity between psychotic depression, catatonia, neurocognitive disorders, and delirium and discuss optimal therapeutic approaches when the presentation appears complex and equivocal.

Quality of care and clinical inertia in the management of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes: data from AMD annals.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with diabetes, and for this reason, all guidelines for CV risk management provide the same targets in controlling traditional CV risk factors in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes at equal CV risk class. Aim of our study was to evaluate and compare CV risk management in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes included in AMD Annals Database paying particular attention to indicators of clinical inertia. This was a multicenter, observational, retrospective study of AMD Annals Database during year 2022. Patients with diabetes were stratified on the basis of their cardiovascular risk, according to ESC-EASD guidelines. The proportion of patients not treated with lipid-lowering despite LDL cholesterol > to 100mg/dl or the proportion of patients not treated with antihypertensive drug despite BP > 140/90 mmhg and proportion of patients with proteinuria not treated with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensinogen receptor blockers (ACE/ARBs) were considered indicators of clinical inertia. The proportion of patients reaching at the same time HbA1c < 7% LDL < 70mg/dl and BP < 130/80 mmhg were considered to have good multifactorial control. Overall quality of health care was evaluated by the Q-score. Using the inclusion criteria and stratifying patients by ESC/EASD Cardiovascular Risk categories, we included in the analysis 118.442 patients at High Cardiovascular risk and 416.246 patients at Very High Cardiovascular risk. The proportion of patients with good multifactorial risk factor control was extremely low in both T1D and T2D patients in each risk class. At equal risk class, the patients with T1D had lower proportion of subjects reaching HbA1c, LDL, or Blood Pressure targets. Indicators of clinical inertia were significantly higher compared with patients with T2D at equal risk class. Data regarding patients with albuminuria not treated with RAAS inhibitors were available only for those at Very High risk and showed that the proportion of patients not treated was again significantly higher in patients with T1DM. In conclusion, this study provides evidence of wide undertreatment of traditional cardiovascular risk factors among patients with diabetes included in AMD Annals Database. Undertreatment seems to be more pronounced in individuals with T1D compared to those with T2D and is frequently due to clinical inertia.

Dynamics of modified cardiovascular risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis on the background of 5-year therapy with an interleukin 6 receptor inhibitor

The effect of an inhibitor of interleukin (IL) 6 receptors on the state of the cardiovascular system in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains poorly understood, especially with its long-term use.The aim – to study the effect of therapy with the IL-6 receptor inhibitor tocilizumab (TCZ) on the dynamics of modifiable risk factors (RF), total cardiovascular risk (CVR), structural changes in the carotid arteries (CA) and the incidence of cardiovascular complications (CVC) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis during the 260-week follow-up period.Material and methods. The study included 37 patients with active RA (32 women and 5 men) with ineffectiveness and/or intolerance to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs); median age was 56 [48; 68] years, disease duration was 92 [49; 158] months; DAS28 (Disease Activity Score 28) – 6.2 [5.5; 6.7] points; all patients were seropositive for rheumatoid factor (RF), 86% – for antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP). Patients received TCZ therapy 8 mg/kg intravenously every 4 weeks; after 192 [176; 210] weeks, 60% of patients switched to subcutaneous administration of the drug at a dose of 162 mg once a week. In 51% of patients with RA, TCZ monotherapy was performed, in 49% – combination therapy of TCZ with DMARDs. Statins were received by 17 (46%) patients, including 7 patients before and 10 after inclusion in the study. All patients underwent an assessment of traditional risk factors, the total cardiovascular risk was calculated using the mSCORE scale, atherosclerotic vascular lesions were assessed by the detection of atherosclerotic plaques (ASP) of CA. The observation period was 260.4 [251.5; 283.4] weeks.Results. After 260 weeks of TCZ therapy, RA remission was observed in 32 (86%) patients, low activity – in 5 (14%) patients. During the observation period, the frequency of modified RF and the total CVR did not change significantly, an increase in body mass index (BMI) by 11% was recorded, the number of patients with hypercholesterolemia and a reduced level of HDL cholesterol (C) decreased. In patients without statin therapy, there were no significant changes in the blood lipid spectrum. In the group of patients receiving statins, there was an increase in HDL-C by 43%, a decrease in cholesterol levels by 15%, atherogenic index (AI) by 56% (p&lt;0.01 in all cases) and associations between the dynamics of ∆cholesterol and ∆CRP (r=0.35; p=0.04), ∆LDL-C and ∆CRP (r=0.41; p=0.03). Significant structural changes in CA in RA patients by the end of 260 weeks of TCZ therapy were not identified. Initially, intima-media thickness (IMT) CA positively moderately correlated with age (r=0.7; p&lt;0.01), BMI (r=0.37; p&lt;0.01), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r=0.62; p&lt;0.01) and weakly with lipid spectrum parameters – cholesterol (r=0.29; p&lt;0.01), LDL-C (r=0.36; p&lt;0.01). No new associations of IMT CA by the end of the observation, as well as the relationship of the IMT CA value with the indicators of RA activity and the ongoing therapy, were identified. By the end of the study, the distribution of patients by mSCORE value and CVR level did not change significantly. The incidence of CVC was 0,54 per 100 patient-years over a 260-week period of TCZ use. Conclusion. Against the background of long-term TCZ therapy in RA patients, there was no increase in CVR and significant structural changes in CA. It is necessary to dynamically monitor the blood lipid profile and CVR in RA patients receiving TCZ therapy. Statin therapy can successfully control dyslipidemia in RA patients who receive long-term TCZ.

Diet in secondary prevention: the effect of dietary patterns on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BackgroundImproving dietary habits is a first-line recommendation for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is unclear which dietary pattern most effectively lowers cardiovascular risk factors and what the short- and long-term effects are. Therefore, this network meta-analysis compared the effects of popular dietary patterns on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with established CVD.MethodsA systematic search of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library, SCOPUS and Web of Science was conducted up to 1 April 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of popular dietary patterns (Mediterranean, moderate carbohydrate, low glycemic index, low-fat and minimal dietary intervention) on cardiovascular risk factors (body weight, systolic blood pressure, lipids) in CVD populations were selected. A random-effects network meta-analysis was performed.ResultsSeventeen RCTs comprising 6,331 participants were included. The moderate carbohydrate diet had the most beneficial effect on body weight (-4.6 kg, 95%CrI -25.1; 15.8) and systolic blood pressure (-7.0 mmHg 95%CrI -16.8; 2.7) compared to minimal intervention. None of the included dietary patterns had a favorable effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. After 12 months, the effects were attenuated compared to those at < 6 months.ConclusionsIn this network meta-analysis of 17 randomized trials, potentially clinically relevant effects of dietary interventions on CV risk factors were observed, but there was considerable uncertainty due to study heterogeneity, low adherence, or actual diminished effects in the medically treated CVD population. It was not possible to select optimal dietary patterns for secondary CVD prevention. Given recent clinical trials demonstrating the potential of dietary patterns to significantly reduce cardiovascular event risk, it is likely that these effects are effectuated through alternative physiological pathways.

ECCO Grant Risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Abstract Background and Aims Although evidence has suggested an increased risk of venous thromboembolism and arteriosclerotic events in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), there are still substantial knowledge gaps about the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with IBD and how CVD risks vary by disease histological and clinical activity. The aims of this project are: 1) to investigate the long-term risk (both absolute and relative) of CVD in patients with IBD, and 2) to assess CVD risks for patients in different phases of histological and clinical periods of IBD. Methods We will apply epidemiological and statistical methods to tackle the proposed research questions through using data from a comprehensive linkage of a nationwide histopathology cohort, one quality register for IBD, and several nationwide registers in Sweden. Individual informed consent will be waived as the study is register-based. Anticipated Impact The project will address several important knowledge gaps and benefit the IBD community in multifaceted ways. Findings from Aim 1 will help us identify patients with IBD at a high risk of developing CVD and enhance the awareness of screening, management, and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with IBD among healthcare professionals as well as patients and their families. Findings from Aim 2 will contribute towards an improved comprehension of CVD risk in different periods of histological and clinical activity, which can offer novel insights into guiding current therapeutic strategies aiming to mitigate the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in IBD patients. Overall, knowledge from our project can provide valuable evidence for the development of clinical guidelines for CVD management in patients with IBD. Currently, such guidelines remain underdeveloped.

Effect of supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

The effectiveness of probiotics or synbiotics in adults with metabolic syndromes (MetS) remains controversial, this meta-analysis will further analyze the effects of probiotics or synbiotics on cardiovascular factors in adults with MetS. We searched Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and other databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of probiotics or synbiotics on MetS in adults up to July 2023, and used RevMan 5.4.0 software for statistical analysis. This analysis included eleven RCTs (n = 608 participants), and the results showed that compared with the control group, supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics reduced body mass index (weighted mean difference, WMD = -0.83, 95% CI = [-1.21, -0.44], P <0.0001, n = 9), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c) (standard mean difference, SMD = -0.24, 95% CI = [-0.41, -0.08], P = 0.004, n = 10), fasting blood glucose (FBG)(SMD = -0.17, 95% CI = [-0.33, -0.01], P = 0.03, n = 11), but had no beneficial effect on systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD = 1.24, 95% CI = [-2.06, 4.54], P = 0.46, n = 8) in MetS patients. Supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics can reduce BMI, LDL-c, FBG in patients with MetS, but our findings did not demonstrate a favorable effect on reducing SBP. Future studies with larger samples and longer intervention periods are needed.

Prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and traditional cardiovascular risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a real-life evidence from BioSTAR nationwide registry.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have increased morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities. The association of CV diseases (CVD) and traditional CV risk factors has been debated, depending on patient and RA characteristics. This study aimed to find the prevalence of CVD and CV risk factors in patients with RA. A multi-center cross-sectional study was performed on RA patients using the BioSTAR (Biological and Targeted Synthetic Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs Registry) in September 2022. Socio-demographic, clinical, and follow-up data were collected. Myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disorders, congestive heart failure, ischemic stroke, and transient ischemic attack were regarded as major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). CVD was defined as the presence of at least one clinical situation of MACE. Group 1 and Group 2 included patients with and without CVD. Prevalence rates of CVD and traditional CV risk factors were the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were the differences in the clinical characteristics between patients with and without CVD. An analysis of 724 patients with a mean age of 55.1 ± 12.8years diagnosed with RA was conducted. There was a female preponderance (79.6%). The prevalence rate of CVD was 4.6% (n = 33). The frequencies of the diseases in the MACE category were ischemic heart disease in 27, congestive heart failure in five, peripheral vascular disorders in three, and cerebrovascular events in three patients. The patients with CVD (Group 1) were significantly male, older, and had higher BMI (p = 0.027, p < 0.001, and p = 0.041). Obesity (33.4%) and hypertension (27.2%) were the two CV risk factors most frequently. Male sex (HR = 7.818, 95% CI 3.030-20.173, p < 0.001) and hypertension (HR = 4.570, 95% CI 1.567-13.328, p = 0.005) were the independent risk factors for CVD. The prevalence of CVD in RA patients was 4.6%. Some common risk factors for CVD in the general population, including male sex, older age, and hypertension, were evident in RA patients. Male sex and hypertension were the independent risk factors for developing CVD in patients with RA.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NEIGHBORHOOD INFRASTRUCTURE AND RISK FACTORS IN PATIENTS WITH MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

HighlightsThe analysis of associations between the elements of the neighboughood area infrastructure and cardiovascular risk factors was performed in a high-risk population of patients with myocardial infarction. This analysis has practical importance for the comprehensive optimization of local preventive approaches. Aim. To study the association of the neighborhood infrastructure parameters with cardiovascular risk factors in patients with myocardial infarction (MI).Material and Methods. The study included 150 patients with MI. On the basis of their subjective opinion expressed by the Neighborhood Environmental Walkability Scale questionnaire, the infrastructure of the area of residence was analyzed, and its favorable and unfavorable parameters were identified. Cardiovascular risk factors were identified based on the survey and medical records.Results. Among all patients with MI, the risk of arterial hypertension with MI was reduced by the presence of a dividing dirt strip in the vicinity of OR 0.32 (95% CI 0.12; 0.83) and accessible public transport OR 0.32 (95% CI 0.10; 0.95), dyslipidemia – the remote location of the restaurant OR 0.50 (95% CI 0.26; 0.97) and the place of work OR 0.32 (95% CI 0.12; 0.86), smoking – distance from a public transport stop OR 0.20 (95% CI 0.04; 0.94) and proximity to a restaurant OR 0.50 (95% CI 0.26; 0.97), physical inactivity – distance from work OR 0.08 (95% CI 0.01; 0.76), stress – remote location of a clothing store OR 0.45 (95% CI 0.22; 0.93), alcohol consumption – compliance of the living area with the conditions necessary for raising children OR 0.27 (95% CI 0.07; 0.97), insufficient consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables – remote location of a pharmacy OR 0.18 (95% CI 0.03; 0.97), the lack of dividing ground strip OR 0.10 (95% CI 0.01; 0.91) and the presence of garbage in the vicinity of OR 0.08 (95% CI 0.01; 0.53), patient satisfaction with the compliance of the living area with the conditions necessary for the upbringing of children OR 0.10 (95% CI 0.01; 0.70). Inadequate street lighting at night contributed to an increased risk of dyslipidemia, OR 3.05 (95% CI 1.04; 8.92), alcohol consumption – proximity to a clothing store OR 2.23 (95% CI 1.08; 4.57).In citizens with MI, a decrease in the risk of arterial hypertension was associated with the presence of a dividing dirt strip in the vicinity of OSH 0.17 (95% CI 0.06; 0.49) and accessible public transport OSH 0.19 (95% CI 0.05; 0.65); stress – with the absence of alternative routes in the vicinity of OSH 0.27 (95% CI 0.09; 0.79); the risk of insufficient consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables – with the distance of the pharmacy OR 0.18 (95% CI 0.03; 0.96), the absence of a dividing dirt strip OR 0.07 (95% CI 0.01; 0.63) and sidewalks in the vicinity of OR 0.14 (95% CI 0.02; 0.89). In rural patients with MI, the risk of stress decreased with the presence of sidewalks in the vicinity of OR 0.21 (95% CI 0.05; 0.99) and accessible public transport OR 0.15 (95% CI 0.03; 0.85).Conclusion. The identification of unfavorable parameters of the territory of residence in patients with MI should contribute to the formation of the concept of a health-preserving environment necessary for further reduction of cardiovascular risks of MI in the population.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 and calcium-phosphate metabolism in relation to cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of mortality in type 1 diabetes (T1D). The objective of this study is to evaluate fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and calcium-phosphate metabolism in relation to cardiovascular risk factors in adults with and without T1D. A case-control study was conducted using data from patients with T1D and age- and sex matched controls without T1D from the Lifelines Cohort Study. We included 302 adults in the T1D group and 302 adults in the control group. Median age was 42 years. Median glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in the T1D group was 7.8%. FGF23 of all patients with T1D was not significantly different from controls. Females with T1D had significantly higher FGF23 than males with T1D (83.3 vs 69.3 U/mL, p = 0.002), this was not observed in controls. Serum phosphate, calcium, and alkaline phosphatase were higher and parathyroid hormone was lower in patients with T1D, compared to controls (all p < .001), all within normal range. In the T1D group, FGF23 was positively correlated with serum phosphate (p < .001), alkaline phosphatase (p = .01), and calcium (p = .030), these correlations were not observed in controls. Median FGF23 was significantly higher in current smokers than in nonsmokers with T1D (84.9 vs 73.5 U/mL, p < .05). Serum calcium, phosphate, and alkaline phosphatase were higher in patients with T1D than in controls and were positively correlated to FGF23 in patients with T1D. Current smokers with T1D had higher FGF23 than nonsmokers with T1D. These findings may contribute to the increased risk of CVD in patients with T1D.

Lipid disorders before and after successful liver transplantation.

Liver transplantation (LTx) is the only successful treatment for end-stage liver disease. The results of liver transplantation depend not only on graft survival but may be also affected by superimposed cardiovascular morbidities. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the prevalence of lipid disorders as one of the important cardiovascular risk factors in patients before and after successful LTx. One hundred eleven patients who underwent liver transplantation because of liver cirrhosis and survived at least 2 years with functioning graft between November 2005 and May 2014 were included in this retrospective analysis. The mean age of the patients at the time of liver transplantation was 49.7±12.2 years. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was assessed before and two years after liver transplantation. This was analyzed in relation to the etiology of liver disease, including alcohol toxicity, viral or autoimmune diseases. The prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia before and after LTx was 13.5% and 40.5%, respectively (P<0.001). Similarly, hypercholesterolemia was noted in 17.1% and 51.4% respectively (P<0.001). The annual incidence of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia during the first two years after LTx was 16.2% and 20.7%, respectively. The prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia (18.5% vs 66.7%, P<0.001) and hypercholesterolemia (29.6% vs 70.0%, P=0.002) was significantly lower in patients with the autoimmune cause of liver cirrhosis in comparison to patients with the alcoholic liver disease. The prevalence of dyslipidemia is increased after liver transplantation. The prevalence of dyslipidemia may be related to the cause of liver injury before LTx.

Apolipoproteins as predictors of cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic pancreatitis.

Patients with pancreatic diseases are at increased risk of cardiovascular events. Investigating various apolipoprotein forms as important atherogenesis components may improve cardiovascular risk (CVR) prediction. This study aimed to investigate CVR factors in patients with chronic pancreatitis. The study enrolled 70 patients (40 males and 30 females, mean age 55.2 years) with chronic pancreatitis and treated pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. We assessed CVR by apolipoproteins A-I, A-II, B, and C-III, lipid profile; score systems [SCORE risk chart and Framingham Risk Score (FRS)], diabetes mellitus; chronic pancreatitis by M-ANNHEIM classification. Statistics were performed via SPSS v. 22. Low apolipoprotein A-I and high apolipoprotein B levels with increased atherogenic potential were observed in 37 and 26 patients. 45.71% demonstrated a high risk of myocardial infarction with high apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A-I ratio. Men are at higher CVR risk. Apolipoproteins A-I and A-II correlated with the cardioprotective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in contrast to apolipoproteins B and C-III, which correlated strongly with low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TG). Increased CVR assessed by FRS correlated with significantly lower apolipoprotein A-I and higher apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A-I ratio. With the increase in chronic pancreatitis severity, we observed decreased apolipoproteins and increased apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A-I ratio. Apolipoproteins are valuable CVR indicators. Further studies are required to establish a CVR screening panel in this population.

Modern determinants of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with psoriatic arthritis: Relation to disease activity and severity

Aim of the workTo evaluate the frequency of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients. Patients and methodsThe study included 97 PsA patients and 30 control. Lipid profile and serum homocysteine level were assessed. The endothelium-dependent vasodilation (EDVD) evaluated. The QRISK-3 scale was used to assess CV risk. Disease activity PsA (DAPSA) and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) were recorded. ResultsReduced EDVD (<10 %) was significantly more frequent in PsA compared to control (75.3 % vs. 6.7 %, p < 0.001), with significant differences in lipid profile (p < 0.001), homocysteine (p < 0.001), QRISK (p < 0.001), CRP (p < 0.001), DAPSA (p < 0.001), and disease duration (p < 0.001) between PsA patients with reduced and normal EDVD. Average CV risk was 7.7 times higher than in control, and the classical risk factors did not account for the reduced EDVD. Linear regression analysis identified disease duration (β 0.5; OR 1.65, p < 0.001) and disease activity (β 0.09; OR 1.09, p < 0.001) as significant predictors of CV risk in PsA patients. The predictive accuracy of DAPSA (sensitivity 69 %, specificity 86.4 %, 95 % CI: 0.7–0.9; p < 0.001) and disease duration (sensitivity 91 %, specificity 55 %, 95 % CI: 0.95–1; p < 0.001) for CV risk was determined. ConclusionA heightened CV risk in PsA patients is highlightened independent of traditional risk factors. The significance of disease activity and disease duration as robust predictors of CV risk in PsA patients is emphasized. The data on hyperhomocysteinemia and its association with endothelial dysfunction emphasize the intricate link between PsA, homocysteine levels, and increased CV risk.

Clinical presentation and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with STEMI due to spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)

Abstract Background Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) may occur in the absence of atherosclerotic and traumatic etiology and can lead to severe clinical manifestations such as ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Compared to atherosclerotic STEMI, younger patients and females are predominantly affected. Hence, underdiagnosis is an important concern. We therefore systematically analyzed the prevalence of SCAD among a large cohort of young patients presenting with STEMI, as well as risk factors and presenting symptoms. Methods We retrospectively identified a consecutive cohort of 631 patients younger than 55 years who underwent coronary angiography due to STEMI between 01/2005 and 10/2022. Systematic review of coronary angiograms allowed identification of all STEMI caused by SCAD (n=20, 3.2%), including patients previously misdiagnosed as atherosclerotic STEMI. By reviewing medical records, we identified symptoms at presentation and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with SCAD-STEMI. Results Out of the 20 patients &amp;lt;55 years presenting with SCAD-STEMI, 16 (80%) were female, and the mean age was 49.5 years. By far the most common presentation was typical angina (75%, n=15), being reported by all 4 male and 11/16 female patients (100% vs. 69%, respectively). Importantly, three patients presented with cardiac arrest due to malignant ventricular arrhythmia (15%). In 6 patients, symptoms were mild and atypical (nausea/vomiting, n = 3, 15%; atypical chest pain, n = 2, 10%; and diaphoresis, n = 1, 5%). There was no significant difference of symptoms between men and women. 11 patients (55%) were treated by primary PCI, none received emergency coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The mean maximum serum creatin kinase (CK) level was 1410 U/l (range 139-86144 U/l). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 50% (range 30-60%). Symptoms at presentation did not correlate with maximum CK levels, nor with LVEF. In this caucasian cohort, the most common cardiovascular risk factor was arterial hypertension (n = 12, 60%), followed by smoking (n = 9, 45%). Six patients had hyperlipidemia (30%), and three (15%) were obese. Diabetes and a positive family history for cardiovascular events were rare (n = 2, 10% vs. n = 1, 5%, respectively). Conclusion In this large caucasian cohort of young patients with STEMI, SCAD accounted for 3.2 % of cases. Typical angina was the most common symptom at presentation, but cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation was frequent. Symptoms in men and women were similar and did not correlate with LVEF, nor with maximum CK levels.

Heart rate variability and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A longitudinal study.

It is established that the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increased in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Heart rate variability (HRV) is a method for evaluating the activity in the cardiac autonomic nervous system. Our aim was to assess the longitudinal development of HRV in patients with RA and compare with healthy controls. Furthermore, we wanted to investigate associations between HRV, inflammatory disease activity and cardiovascular complications in patients with RA over time. HRV was assessed with frequency-domain analysis at baseline and after five years in 50 patients with early RA, all being younger than 60years. HRV indices were age-adjusted based on the estimated age-dependency in 100 age and sex matched healthy controls. Additionally, clinical data including serological markers, disease activity, and blood pressure were collected from the patients. Eleven years after inclusion CVD was assessed. At baseline, patients with RA presented with lower HRV compared to controls during deep breathing (6 breaths/min), paced normal breathing (12 breaths/min) and after passive tilt to the upright position. No significant change in HRV was observed at the five-year follow-up. A significant negative correlation was found between HRV parameters and systolic blood pressure (SBP) at baseline. A significant positive correlation was found between heart rate and inflammatory markers at baseline but not after five years. Nine patients had developed CVD after 11years, but no significant association was found with baseline HRV data. This study showed that patients with RA have autonomic imbalance both at an early stage of the disease and after five years, despite anti-rheumatic medication, but no correlation between HRV and inflammation markers were observed. Reduced HRV was also significantly negatively correlated with increased SBP. Hypertension is a common finding in patients with RA. Thus, significant decline of HRV could be a useful early marker for development of hypertension in patients with RA.

Evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors, prevalence and determinants of coronary artery disease in renal transplant patients: a single center experience

Aims: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in renal transplant patients. In our study, we aimed to determine the cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, the prevalence and determinants of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients who underwent kidney transplantation in our center.&#x0D; Methods: One hundred sixty nine patients who underwent kidney transplantation in our center were included in the study retrospectively. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients, cardiac evaluation findings and further examination results were scanned from the database of our center.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of the patients was 42.86±12.97 years and 43.19% were female. The most common etiological factors for the development of end-stage renal disease were hypertension (HT) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Ninety seven patients (57.4%) were undergoing dialysis, 4 of whom were on peritoneal dialysis. Renal transplant was performed from a cadaver in two patients and from a living donor in the other patients. CAD was detected in 29 patients (17.15%). The most prevalent CV risk factors were HT and hyperlipidemia (HL). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, DM, HL and dialysis history were independent risk factors for the development of CAD. In the postoperative follow-ups, no death or acute coronary syndrome was observed during the hospitalization period.&#x0D; Conclusion: Prevalence of CV risk factors is high in renal transplant candidates. Our findings support the need for a detailed cardiac evaluation and effective management of CV risk factors in patients preparing for kidney transplantation.