Cardiovascular Risk Screening Research Articles

Abstract 4138647: Opportunistic Screening for Cardiovascular Risk Using Chest X-Rays and Deep Learning: Associations with Coronary Artery Disease in the Project Baseline Health Study and Mass General Brigham Biobank

Introduction/Background: We previously demonstrated that an open-source deep learning model (CXR-CVD Risk) can predict 10-year major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction&stroke), based on a chest radiograph image (CXR). As deep learning models are black boxes, establishing the biological processes the model captures to predict risk may help build understanding and trust in the model. Research Questions/Hypothesis: To test associations between deep-learning derived CXR-CVD Risk and markers of cardiovascular disease including coronary artery calcium (CAC) and stenosis ≥50% on CT, systolic blood pressure (SBP), ankle brachial index (ABI), and prevalent myocardial infarction and stroke. Methods/Approach: We conducted external validation of CXR-CVD-Risk in two cohorts: 1) 2,097 volunteers in the Project Baseline Health Study (PBHS) and 2) 1,644 Mass General Brigham Biobank (MGBB) patients. The CXR-CVD-Risk model estimated 10-year cardiovascular event risk (probability between 0 and 1) from a CXR image. We calculated linear associations with SBP, ABI, and the logarithm of coronary artery calcium and odds ratios for prevalent hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, and, in the MGBB, coronary artery stenosis ≥50%. Analyses were adjusted for age, BMI, sex, smoking status, and enrolling site. Results/Data: CXR-CVD-Risk was associated with CAC in both populations (PBHS: 1.11-fold increase, 95% CI: [1.07-1.16]; MGBB: 1.03-fold increase [1.01-1.05] in CAC per 1% increase in CXR-CV-Risk). CXR-CVD-Risk was also associated with SBP (0.59 mmHg increase [0.24-0.93] in SBP per 1% increase in CXR-CV-Risk), history of hypertension, history of myocardial infarction, and stroke. There was an inverse association with ABI (0.010 decrease [0.005-0.014] in ABI) in the PBHS. In the MGBB, CXR-CVD-Risk was associated with coronary artery stenosis ≥50% (OR = 1.004 [1.002-1.007]). All estimates are after covariate adjustment. Conclusion: This deep learning CXR risk score was associated with coronary artery disease (calcium score and stenosis ≥50%), CVD risk factors, and prevalent CVD. Opportunistic screening using CXRs in the electronic record can identify patients at high risk of CVD who may benefit from prevention.

Embedding a text message recall system to increase the uptake of cardiovascular screening in Australian general practice. Results of the Text to Detect randomised controlled trial

Abstract Background Australian guidelines recommend cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk screening for adults aged 45-74 years, but less than one in three have blood pressure and cholesterol recorded within their general practitioner (GP) records. Medicare subsidised ‘Heart Health Checks’ were introduced in primary care in 2019, however uptake has been suboptimal. Purpose The aims of this study were to; 1) implement a text mediated Heart Health Check recall program within general practice at scale, 2) determine whether uptake can be increased with nudge reminder text messages and 3) evaluate the impact on risk factor measurement and medication prescription. Methods Australian general practices were invited via advertisement and mailing list. Medical record software identified patients eligible for a Heart Health Check. Practices were randomised to one of three arms: 1) standard SMS: 1 SMS inviting patients to see their GP for a Heart Health Check, 2) nudge reminder: standard SMS + nudge reminder two weeks later, 3) control: no SMS. Aggregate, deidentified, practice-level data was extracted at baseline and 3-months. The primary outcome was the proportion of Heart Health Checks delivered at a practice level. Secondary outcomes included updated CVD risk factor assessment and new medication prescriptions. Analyses used ANOVA and Tukey's HSD. Results Between 2022 and 2023, 206 general practices participated, each with 560 median eligible patients (IQR:297-909). A total of 70,679 recall text messages and 34,406 nudge reminder messages were sent. Heart Health Check uptake was 11 and 16 times higher in the standard and nudge arms (respectively) compared to control (0.4 vs 4.5 vs 6.3 per 100 patients, p<0.001), with a 40% statistically significant increase (p=0.02) for 2 SMS vs 1 SMS. Updated cholesterol values were 31.6 and 60.2% higher in standard and nudge arms (respectively) compared to control (13.7 vs 16.8 vs 17.4 per 100 patients, p=0.02). Both active arms were statistically significantly different from control (standard p=0.047, nudge p=<0.001). Updated blood pressure was 23.0 and 26.8% higher in the standard and nudge arms (respectively) compared to control (13.7 vs 16.8 vs 17.4 per 100 participants), however only the nudge arm was statistically significantly different (p=0.38). New medication prescription (lipid or blood pressure-lowering) was 36.8% higher in the nudge arm compared to control (32.1 vs 43.9 patients per practice, p=0.03). Conclusions This study demonstrates the effectiveness of text mediated recall of eligible patients to increase the uptake of cardiovascular risk screening in Australian general practice. The findings will inform the implementation of new Australian guidelines and policy reform.

Left versus right carotid artery IMT: differential impact of age, gender, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT), an important clinical marker of atherosclerosis, is used widely in screening for cardiovascular risk and prognosis. Measurements of carotid artery IMT are made on both the left and right sides of the body, however as per the Mannheim consensus, an average of these measurements is usually reported. Nevertheless, there is considerable debate whether there are side differences in the carotid artery IMT in terms of both measurements and determinants. In a large sample of Caucasian patients (n = 1888) referred for cardiovascular risk assessment, we compared the left and the right common carotid artery IMT measurements, and assessed whether age, gender and cardiovascular risk factors have differential effects. We found that the left common carotid artery IMT (0.7141 ± 0.1733mm) is larger than the right (0.6861 ± 0.1594, p < 0.0001), but not in the young (< 30years) or the elderly (> 69years), and that this side difference is less in women (0.019 ± 0.116mm) than in men (0.036 ± 0.148mm, p < 0.001). In addition to age (p < 0.0001) and gender (p < 0.0001), the left common carotid artery IMT was determined by dyslipidaemia (protective, p = 0.016) and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.022); whereas the right common carotid artery IMT was determined by hypertension (p = 0.0002). The differential determinants of left versus right common carotid artery IMT were similar in men and women, and in young and old. In conclusion, side differences in measurements of the common carotid artery IMT depend upon age and gender. In addition, cardiovascular risk factors have differential effects on the left and right common carotid artery IMT.

Cardiovascular Risk Screening in A Rural Area in India and Markov Modelling for Cost Effectiveness

Cardiovascular Risk Screening in A Rural Area in India and Markov Modelling for Cost Effectiveness

A cross-sectional investigation of a mobile health clinic run by undergraduate pharmacy students providing services to underserved communities.

Mobile health clinics have been used to provide healthcare to underserved communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Student-led clinics, operated by undergraduate health students, offer valuable training while serving these populations. This cross-sectional study investigated the demographic characteristics and services provided by a mobile health clinic run by undergraduate pharmacy students, assessing its potential to reach underserved communities. The mobile health clinic operated from October 2023 to April 2024, staffed by 36 fourth-year pharmacy students. Services included cardiovascular disease risk screening and lifestyle advice. Demographic and service data were collected using an electronic primary care system and analysed with descriptive statistics. The clinic served 716 users, with a demographic breakdown of 53.2% female and 46.8% male, predominantly aged 31-60years. Users were ethnically diverse. Services provided included blood pressure (91.3%), BMI (91.3%), and diabetes risk assessments (54.9%). Many users reported low risk for smoking and alcohol consumption, but varied levels of physical activity. Referrals were made for cardiovascular disease risk and lifestyle support. The mobile health clinic effectively reached a diverse, underserved population, providing essential health services and facilitating student training. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact and cost-effectiveness of such clinics, and the follow-up care for referred patients.

Association between Preeclampsia and Long-term Risk of Arrhythmias.

Preeclampsia (PE), a pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorder, affects 4-5% of pregnancies worldwide. It is well known that hypertension is associated with an increased risk of arrhythmias; however, data on the association between PE and arrhythmias are sparse. In this observational cohort study, we identified all primiparous women who gave birth in Denmark (1997-2016) using Danish nationwide registries. The women were stratified on whether they developed PE during primiparous pregnancy, and followed from primiparous pregnancy to incident arrhythmia, emigration, death, or end of study (December 31, 2018). A total of 523,271 primiparous women with a median age of 28 years were included and 23,367 (4.5%) were diagnosed with PE. During a median follow-up of 10.1 years, women with vs without PE were associated with a higher incidence of arrhythmias (1.42% vs 1.02%): 1) Composite of cardiac arrest, ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation, or ICD implantation (adjusted HR 1.60 [95% CI 1.14-2.24]), 2) Composite of advanced 2nd degree or 3rd degree atrioventricular block, sinoatrial dysfunction, or pacemaker implantation (adjusted HR 1.48 [95% CI 0.97-2.23]), 3) Composite of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias or extra systoles (adjusted HR 1.34 [95% CI 1.19-1.51]), 4) Composite of all the above-mentioned arrhythmias (adjusted HR 1.37 [95% CI 1.23-1.54]). Preeclamptic women were associated with a significantly and at hitherto unknown long-term increased rate of arrhythmias. This finding suggests that women with PE may benefit from cardiovascular risk assessment, screening, and preventive education.

Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Age, What Should We Know?

While young sudden cardiac death (SCD) is statistically uncommon, its dramatic presentation and impact on families and communities make it a newsworthy issue. Nonetheless, it is important to view SCD in children and adolescents as a public health concern and devise strategies based on research and consensus to address it. Both individuals with and without a history of cardiovascular illness are susceptible to sudden cardiac death. Employing cardiovascular disease risk screening for healthy individuals and those with a family history of sudden cardiac death can serve as a preventive approach against sudden cardiac death. Assessing the severity of cardiovascular disease in people becomes essential to prevent disease progression and minimize the risk of mortality from cardiovascular conditions. Keyword: Young, Sudden Cardiac Death, Preventive.

Changes in muscle strength and risk of cardiovascular disease among middle-aged and older adults in China: Evidence from a prospective cohort study.

Evidence indicates that low muscle strength is associated with an increased cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) risk. However, the association between muscle strength changes based on repeated measurements and CVD incidence remains unclear. The study used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study in 2011 (Wave 1), 2013 (Wave 2), 2015 (Wave 3), and 2018 (Wave 4). Low muscle strength was defined as handgrip strength <28kg for men or <18kg for women, or chair-rising time ≥12 s. Based on changes in muscle strength from Waves 1 to 2, participants were categorized into four groups of Normal-Normal, Low-Normal, Normal-Low, and Low-Low. CVD events, including heart disease and stroke, were recorded using a self-reported questionnaire during Waves 3 and 4 visits. Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the association between muscle strength changes and CVD incidence after multivariable adjustments. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated with the Normal-Normal group as the reference. A total of 1164 CVD cases were identified among 6608 participants. Compared to participants with sustained normal muscle strength, the CVD risks increased progressively across groups of the Low-Normal (HR=1.20, 95% CI: 1.01-1.43), the Normal-Low (HR=1.35, 95% CI: 1.14-1.60), and the Low-Low (HR=1.76, 95% CI: 1.49-2.07). Similar patterns were observed for the significant associations between muscle strength status and the incidence risks of heart disease and stroke. Subgroup analyses showed that the significant associations between CVD and muscle strength changes were consistent across age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) categories. The study found that muscle strength changes were associated with CVD risk. This suggests that continuous tracking of muscle status may be helpful in screening cardiovascular risk.

Preeclampsia-Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors 6 Months and 2 Years After Pregnancy: The P4 Study.

Increased cardiovascular risk following preeclampsia is well established and there are signs of early cardiovascular aging 6 months postpartum. This study assessed whether blood pressure (BP) and other cardiovascular measures are abnormal 2 years postpartum in the same cohort to determine ongoing risk markers. Six months and 2 years postpartum, BP was measured using sphygmomanometry, 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring, and noninvasive central BP. Anthropometric measures, blood, and urine biochemistry were performed. Cross-sectional comparisons between preeclampsia and normotensive pregnancy (NP) groups and longitudinal comparisons within each group were made at 6 months and 2 years. Two years postpartum, 129 NP, and 52 preeclampsia women were studied who also had 6 months measures. At both time points, preeclampsia group had significantly higher BP (office BP 2 years, 112±12/72±8 versus 104±9/67±7 mm Hg NP; [P<0.001]; mean ambulatory BP monitoring 116±9/73±8 versus 106±8/67±6 mm Hg NP; [P<0.001]). No significant BP changes noted 6 months to 2 years within either group. Office BP thresholds of 140 mm Hg systolic and 90 mm Hg diastolic classified 2% preeclampsia and 0% NP at 2 years. American Heart Association 2017 criteria (above normal, >120/80 mm Hg) classified 25% versus 8% (P<0.002), as did our reference range threshold of 122/79 mm Hg. American Heart Association criteria classified 60% post-preeclampsia versus 16% after NP with above-normal ambulatory BP monitoring (P<0.001). Other cardiovascular risk markers more common 2 years post-preeclampsia included higher body mass index (median 26.6 versus 23.1, P=0.003) and insulin resistance. After preeclampsia, women have significantly higher BP 6 months and 2 years postpartum, and have higher body mass index and insulin-resistance scores, increasing their future cardiovascular risk. Regular cardiovascular risk screening should be implemented for all who have experienced preeclampsia.

Incidence and prevalence of hypertension among HIV-TB co-infected participants accessing treatment: A five-year prospective cohort analysis.

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). This study determined incidence and prevalence of hypertension among PLWH receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). We prospectively followed-up 642 HIV and tuberculosis (TB) co-infected study participants from 2005-2013. We defined hypertension as two consecutive elevated systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure measurements above 139/89 mmHg or current use of antihypertensive therapy. Of 507 participants analyzed, 53% were women. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age, body mass index (BMI), and CD4 count was 34 (28.0-40.0) years, 22.7 (20.5-25.4) kg/m2, and 145 (69.0-252.0) cells/mm3, respectively. Incidence [95% confidence interval (CI)] of both systolic and diastolic hypertension overall, in men, and in women over 40 years was 1.9 (1.4-2.6), 5.9 (3.6-9.6), and 5.0 (2.7-9.3) per 100 person-years (PY), respectively. Risk of developing hypertension was higher in men [(adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 12.04, 95% CI: 4.35-33.32)] and women over 40 years (aHR 8.19, 95% CI 2.96-22.64), and in men below 40 years (aHR 2.79, 95% CI 0.95-8.23). Higher incidence rates of hypertension among older men and women accessing ART highlight opportunities to expand current integrated HIV-TB care models, to include cardiovascular disease risk screening and care to prevent premature death.

Positive cardiovascular health: longitudinal investigation of sustained health behavior in a cross-lagged model.

Our study focuses on the role of psychological states in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and explores the potential of positive psychological factors in reducing CVD risk. While existing research has predominantly examined negative mental states and risk behavior, this longitudinal study takes a novel approach by investigating positive psychological wellbeing and its impact on sustained health behavior. The research involved participants (n = 502) with medium to high cardiovascular risk who underwent a comprehensive risk assessment in 2012, followed by written risk communication. Health behavior and psychological variables were measured in 2012 and 2019. A cross-lagged panel was employed to repeat measures of a cardiovascular health index with latent factors. Results indicated an excellent fit for the model (RMSEA = 0.0644, CFI = 0.936, TLI = 0.921, SRMR = 0.050), with significant associations between the observed variables (p < 0.05) and created latent factors. Furthermore, the model implied significant bivariate correlations (p < 0.05) between latent constructs of sustained health behavior and positive psychological states in 2012 and 2019. A significant regression relationship between Health Awareness Index 2012 and 2019, between Psychological wellbeing in 2012 and 2019 (B = 1.103 p = 0.038), latent factors could be identified (B = 1.103 p = 0.038) using cross-lagged panel model. Results highlighted the importance of cardiovascular health awareness, subjective risk perception, and self-directed efforts in facilitating health behavior change. Relationships between psychological wellbeing and health awareness emphasize that positive experiences and reinforcement are crucial in sustaining optimal health behavior. Our findings offer a new perspective on cardiovascular risk screening and preventive interventions. Extending cardiovascular risk screening with psychological measures may broaden prevention opportunities by including psychological elements reinforcing positive psychological states. The findings suggest that an effective prevention program must consider stabilizing and maintaining positive psychological states to achieve lasting improvements in cardiovascular health.

Cardiovascular risk screening: a 10-year prediction cross-sectional study in a Nigerian agrarian community.

cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major public health issue with a high global death rate and a significant death contribution from low-and middle-income countries. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors assessment and screening are important in their effective prevention and control. This study was designed to screen and assess cardiovascular risk factors in an agrarian community in Nigeria and to predict their 10-year CVD risk. this was a cross-sectional study carried out in the Umueri community in Anambra State, Nigeria. Each participant responded to an epidemiologic survey using the World Health Organization (WHO) cardiovascular risk factors assessment tool with point-of-care screening procedures. The risk assessment for 10-year CV risk was conducted using region-specific WHO/ISH charts. Patients´ characteristics were analyzed and presented in frequencies and percentages. the mean age, systolic blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, and total cholesterol of the study population were 54 years ± 1.27, 132 mmHg ± 2.088, 130 mg/dl ± 4.608, and 215 mg/dl ± 10.355 respectively. However, 98 (48.8%) have never had their blood pressure checked. About a quarter of the population had a high predicted risk of developing CVD within 10 years. most of the assessed cardiovascular risk factors in the community are on average above the normal ranges and their probability risk of developing CVD within the next 10 years is high.

Association between preeclampsia and long-term risk of arrhythmias

Abstract Background Preeclampsia (PE), a pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorder, affects 4-5% of pregnancies worldwide. It is well known that hypertension is associated with increased risk of arrhythmias; however, data on the association between PE and arrhythmias are sparse and there is a lack of knowledge on the long-term risk of arrhythmias. Purpose To compare the incidence of arrhythmias following preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancies. Methods In this observational cohort study, we identified all primiparous women without history of arrhythmias who gave birth in Denmark from 1997 to 2016 using Danish nationwide registries. The women were stratified on whether they developed PE during their primiparous pregnancy and were followed from primiparous pregnancy to incident arrhythmia, emigration, death, or end of study (December 31, 2018). The comparative risks of arrhythmias were assessed in cause-specific Cox regression analyses adjusted for known arrhythmogenic risk factors including obesity, smoking, hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, and alcohol abuse. Results A total of 521,517 primiparous women with a median age of 28 years were included and 23,523 (4.5%) were diagnosed with PE. Women with versus without PE were of similar age but had a higher burden of comorbidities. During a median follow-up period of 10.2 years, women with PE were associated with higher absolute incidences of arrhythmias (Figure 1). No statistically significant association was found for the composite of cardiac arrest, ventricular arrhythmias, or ICD-implantation nor for the composite of advanced 2nd or 3rd degree atrioventricular block, sinoatrial dysfunction, or pacemaker-implantation. However, women with PE were associated with a significant increased risk of the composite of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and extrasystoles (p&amp;lt;0.01) and the composite of all included arrhythmias (p&amp;lt;0.01). Factors associated with arrhythmias among women with PE included obesity (HR 1.40 (95%CI 1.03-1.91), coronary artery disease (HR 2.39 (95%CI 1.14-5.00), cardiomyopathy (HR 9.65 (95%CI 3.46-26.92), and congenital heart disease (HR 5.86 (95%CI 2.59-13.28). Conclusion Preeclamptic women were associated with a significantly higher rate of arrhythmias - mainly driven by supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and extrasystoles - than normotensive women. For the purpose of primary and secondary prevention, this finding suggests that women with a history of PE may benefit from evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors, screening of and education in prevention of cardiovascular disease.Figure 1

Evaluation of a proactive cardiovascular risk screening program after preeclampsia: the Queen of Hearts study

Abstract Introduction: Despite the long-term risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) after preeclampsia (PE), guidelines do not include specific recommendations on how to apply structural cardiovascular (CV) screening after complicated pregnancy. Insight in the prevalence of conventional CV risk factors at different age intervals may provide insight in the necessity of timely CV screening. Purpose Evaluate the prevalence of conventional CV risk factors in former pregnant women at different age intervals. Methods Data was used from the cross-sectional Queen of Hearts study, which includes relatively young women with a history of PE and a control group of women with a history of uncomplicated pregnancy. Based on history taking we established the prevalence of known diagnoses of hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypercholesterolemia. Besides, a CV risk assessment was performed, including 30-minutes blood pressure (BP) measurement and venous blood sampling. De novo diagnosis of hypertension, DM and hypercholesterolemia were defined as systolic BP ≥140mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90mmHg, fasting glucose ≥7mmol/L, and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) &amp;gt;3.4mmol/L, respectively. Odds Ratio’s (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were established, and survival analysis using Kaplan Meier curves and cox regression was performed. Results We included 1040 (39 ± 8 years) women who had suffered PE and 518 who experienced normotensive pregnancy (44 ± 8 years). In both groups, the prevalence of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia increased statistically significantly with advancing age (p-values trend &amp;lt;0.001), but this age-related increase seemed larger in former preeclamptic women. Across all age groups, former preeclamptic women suffered more often hypertension than controls whilst differences seemed most pronounced for younger individuals (&amp;lt;40 years: 12.4% vs. 2.1% respectively, OR 6.6 (95% CI 2.1-18.3); 40-49 years: 24.8% vs. 6.9% respectively, OR 4.5 (95% CI 2.4-8.3); ≥50 years: 38.2% vs. 15.7% respectively, OR 3.3 (95% CI 1.8-6.1)). A proportion of 33.5% former preeclamptic women and 23.9% controls suffered at least one CV risk factor (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.3-2.0). This prevalence significantly increased with age, being 25.0% among former preeclamptic women aged &amp;lt;40 years and increasing up to 65.7% if aged ≥50 years. The age of CV risk diagnosis was on average 8 years younger in former preeclamptic women than controls, supported by survival analyses ((log rank p-value &amp;lt;0.001, Hazard Ratio 2.6 (95% CI 2.1-3.2)). Conclusions The prevalence of hypertension, DM and hypercholesterolemia is significantly higher in women with former PE compared to controls, already below the age of 40 and increasing with age. The age-related increase in risk was larger among former preeclamptic women than controls. Awareness on the high prevalence of CV risk factors at young age in former preeclamptic women should be taken into account when developing screening guidelines.Prevalence of CV risk factorsKaplan Meier curve CV risk factors

Abstract 15958: Obstetrical History That Includes Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes (APO) Are Not Incorporated Into the Creation of Cardiovascular Risk Screening in Adults

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality and is the leading cause of death for women/assigned female at birth (AFAB) people in the US. People who experience metabolic and hypertensive complications in pregnancy are at an increased risk of hypertension and CVD later in life. ACC/AHA have published clinical guidelines, which includes the use of the ASCVD risk estimator, to identify patients that may benefit from treatment with primary prevention. Our objective was to determine how often OBHx was included in the underlying primary literature that was utilized to create the current CVD screening guidelines. Methods: This is a descriptive study of the cited works, including original research and guidelines, used to develop the 2018 guidelines for the use of risk assessment tools for ASCVD and the 2019 primary prevention of CVD guidelines. Original research citations were analyzed for identification of OBHx. Articles that included OBHx were analyzed for identification of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes (APO), specific risk factors including preeclampsia/gestational hypertension (GHTN), fetal growth restriction (FGR), preterm delivery (PTD), gestational diabetes (GDM) and peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). We further assessed discussion of OBHx within the articles as: cursory (1-2 sentences), moderate (3-5 sentences), or extensive (&gt;5 sentences). Results: Of the 58 articles included, more than half included AFAB/women, 37 (63.8%), although how sex/gender was assigned was not delineated. Of these only 3 (5.2% of total) included OBHx. In 2 of the studies OBHx was identified by maternal recall, while 1 study performed a chart review. Of the 3 studies that included OBHx, 2 (66.6%) included history of preeclampsia/GHTN and PTD. FGR and GDM were each identified in 1 article. None of the articles included PPCM. An extensive discussion of APO risk factors was included for 2, while 1 study had a moderate discussion. Conclusions: Most of the data used to create the primary prevention of CVD guidelines provide very little information regarding OBHx. This may lead to an underestimation of CVD risk in AFAB people and potentially fail to identify those that may benefit from treatment for primary prevention of CVD.

Optimizing cardiovascular disease risk screening in a low-resource setting: cost-effectiveness of program modifications in Sri Lanka modelled with nationally representative survey data

BackgroundWhile screening for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk can help low-resource health systems deliver low-cost, effective prevention, evidence is needed to adapt international screening guidelines for maximal impact in local settings. We aimed to establish how the cost-effectiveness of CVD risk screening in Sri Lanka varies with who is screened, how risk is assessed, and what thresholds are used for prescription of medicines.MethodsWe used data for people aged 35 years and over from a 2018/19 nationally representative survey in Sri Lanka. We modelled the costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) for 128 screening program scenarios distinguished by a) age group screened, b) risk tool used, c) definition of high CVD risk, d) blood pressure threshold for treatment of high-risks, and e) prescription of statins to all diabetics. We used the current program as the base case. We used a Markov model of a one-year screening program with a lifetime horizon and a public health system perspective.ResultsScenarios that included the WHO-2019 office-based risk tool dominated most others. Switching to this tool and raising the age threshold for screening from 35 to 40 years gave an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $113/QALY. Lowering the CVD high-risk threshold from 20 to 10% and prescribing antihypertensives at a lower threshold to diabetics and people at high risk of CVD gave an ICER of $1,159/QALY. The findings were sensitive to allowing for disutility of daily medication.ConclusionsIn Sri Lanka, CVD risk screening scenarios that used the WHO-2019 office-based risk tool, screened people above the age of 40, and lowered risk and blood pressure thresholds would likely be cost-effective, generating an additional QALY at less than half a GDP per capita.

Transformation to a patient-centred medical home led and delivered by an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and association with engagement and quality-of-care: quantitative findings from a pilot study

BackgroundThe patient-centred medical home (PCMH) is a model of team-based primary care that is patient-centred, coordinated, accessible, and focused on quality and safety. In response to substantial population growth and increasing demand on existing primary care services, the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH) developed the IUIH System of Care-2 (ISoC2), based on an international Indigenous-led PCMH. ISoC2 was piloted at an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled Health Service in South-East Queensland between 2019–2020, with further adaptations made to ensure its cultural and clinical relevance to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Little is known on the implementation and impact of PCMH in the Australian Indigenous primary care setting. Changes in implementation process measures and outcomes relating to engagement and quality-of-care are described here.MethodsDe-identified routinely collected data extracted from electronic health records for clients regularly attending the service were examined to assess pre-post implementation changes relevant to the study. Process measures included enrolment in PCMH team-based care, and outcome measures included engagement with the health service, continuity-of-care and clinical outcomes.ResultsThe number of regular clients within the health service increased from 1,186 pre implementation to 1,606 post implementation; representing a small decrease as a proportion of the services’ catchment population (38.5 to 37.6%). In clients assigned to a care team (60% by end 2020), care was more evenly distributed between providers, with an increased proportion of services provided by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker (16–17% versus 10–11%). Post-implementation, 41% of clients had continuity-of-care with their assigned care team, while total, preventive and chronic disease services were comparable pre- and post-implementation. Screening for absolute cardiovascular disease risk improved, although there were no changes in clinical outcomes.ConclusionsThe increase in the number of regular clients assigned to a team and their even distribution of care among care team members provides empirical evidence that the service is transforming to a PCMH. Despite a complex transformation process compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, levels of service delivery and quality remained relatively stable, with some improvements in risk factor screening.

Lipid Panel Screening for Adults Living With Chronic Conditions

&#x0D; Abnormal blood lipid levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and lipid panel screening can help health care providers make treatment decisions for adults living with chronic conditions.&#x0D; We did not find any studies that met our inclusion criteria on the diagnostic test accuracy or clinical utility of nonfasting lipid panel screening for adults living with chronic conditions.&#x0D; Two guidelines recommend a nonfasting lipid panel for the initial screening for cardiovascular disease risk. A fasting lipid panel is recommended if triglyceride levels are high.&#x0D; One guideline recommends either fasting or nonfasting lipid panel screening before starting lipid modification therapy in people at risk of cardiovascular disease.&#x0D;

A Jordanian Multidisciplinary Consensus Statement on the Management of Dyslipidemia.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the primary contributor to global mortality rates, which significantly escalates healthcare expenditures. Risk factors for ASCVD (including dyslipidemia) frequently present in clusters rather than separately. Addressing these risk factors is crucial in the early initiation of a comprehensive management plan that involves both lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy to reduce the impact of ASCVD. A team of Jordanian professionals from various medical organizations and institutes took the initiative to create a set of guidelines for dyslipidemia screening and therapy. A detailed, comprehensive literature review was undertaken utilizing several databases and keywords. This consensus statement provides recommendations for dyslipidemia management in Jordanians on several issues including cardiovascular risk estimation, screening eligibility, risk categories, treatment goals, lifestyle changes, and statin and non-statin therapies. It is recommended that all Jordanian individuals aged 20 years old or older undergo lipid profile testing. This should be followed by determining the level of cardiovascular risk depending on the presence or absence of ASCVD and cardiovascular risk factors, eligibility for lipid-lowering therapy, and the target low-density cholesterol serum level to be achieved. In conclusion, prioritizing the management of dyslipidemia is of the utmost importance in improving public health and reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases.

Male rheumatoid arthritis patients at substantially higher risk for cardiovascular mortality in comparison to women

BackgroundPatients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at an increased risk for developing cardiovascular diseases. While advice regarding cardiovascular risk screening and management in RA patients has been incorporated in several guidelines in recent years, its implementation and adherence is still poor. ObjectivesTo assess the cardiovascular disease risk in new diagnosed RA patients and evaluate whether advice to initiate preventive medical treatment of high risk patients was followed. MethodsAll patients with a recent diagnosis of RA, aged 40–70 years, were screened between May 2019 and December 2022 for cardiovascular diseases and risk factors within the first year after diagnosis at the outpatient rheumatology clinic, as part of standard care. Screening included a physical examination with blood pressure measurement, and laboratory tests with lipid profile tests. All patients and their general practitioner (GP) received an overview with their cardiovascular risk profile and a calculated 10-year cardiovascular mortality risk. Cardiovascular risk was defined as low (<1%), intermediate (1–5%), high (5–10%) and very high (>10%). The national pharmacy network was consulted to check whether or not patients started preventive medication after screening. ResultsA total of 125 RA patients was included in this study. The mean age was 56 years and 78% was female. Median RA disease duration at screening was 6 months. Six patients (5%) indicated to have been screened before, and used antihypertensive medication. During screening, hypertension was found in 57% of male patients and 43% of female patients and dyslipidemia was found in 36% in male and 32% in female patients. 46% of male patients and 21% of female patients currently smoked. A high or very high 10-year cardiovascular mortality risk was found in 50% of male patients, but in only 4% of female patients. Only 26% of (very) high risk patients started antihypertensive or statin medication after screening. ConclusionsAn increased cardiovascular disease risk is often present in newly diagnosed RA patients, especially male patients, with a large proportion having undiagnosed and untreated hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Even with structural screening and informing of the patients and GPs, treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in high risk patients remains insufficient. CV risk screening needs to be part of standard care for RA patients, with clear agreement on the responsibilities between primary and secondary care. Awareness of the importance of CVD risk screening needs to improve among both RA patients themselves and the GPs to ultimately reduce the cardiovascular burden of our patients. Obviously, a better collaboration between GPs and rheumatologists is urgently needed to lower the cardiovascular burden of our patients.