Higher Prevalence Of Hypercholesterolemia Research Articles

Which inflammatory marker, between systemic immune-inflammation index and neutrophil to eosinophil ratio, is associated with Peyronie’s disease and are there any implications for a better understanding of its mechanisms?

BackgroundPeyronie’s disease affects up to 9% of men and is often accompanied by pain and/or erectile dysfunction. It is characterized by an inflammatory process that is the grassroots of the subsequent fibrosis stage. There is an unmet need to evaluate its onset and progression. Among the newly proposed biomarkers of inflammation, authors developed a novel systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) based on lymphocyte, neutrophil, and platelet counts. Similarly, a recent study reported that a neutrophil-to-eosinophil ratio (NER) represents systemic inflammation.ResultsA 49-patient group with Peyronie’s disease as confronted with 50 well-matched for age and BMI controls. As laboratory evaluation of inflammation, SII, NER and the eosinophil to neutrophil ratio (ENR) were studied. As a likely risk factor for the presence of Peyronie’s disease, a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia and hypertension was discovered in the patients compared to controls. A significant difference was found in the median values of the NER between the two selected groups, i.e., 32.5 versus 17.3 (p = 0.0021). As expected, also ENR was significantly different. The receiver operating characteristic curves for SII, ENR and NER were 0.55, 0.32 and 0.67, respectively, highlighting the best performance of NER. The cut-off for NER was 12.1, according to the Youden test.ConclusionsAccording to our results, any evaluation of circulating eosinophil, evaluated as NER, beyond being a signature of immuno-inflammatory response, help assess tissue homeostasis, since eosinophils are now considered multifunctional leukocytes and give a picture of the inflammatory process and repair process belonging to Peyronie’s disease.

Non-linear association between serum folate concentrations and dyslipidemia: Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016-2018.

We aimed to evaluate the association between serum folate concentrations and the prevalence of dyslipidemia. A total of 4,477 adults (2,019 male and 2,458 female) enrolled in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2016-2018 were included. Serum samples were used to assess folate concentrations and total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels. Multivariate logistic regression with sampling weights was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Elevated TC, TG, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol levels were observed in 506 (11.3%), 646 (14.4%), 434 (9.7%), and 767 (17.1%) participants, respectively. We found non-linear trends between serum folate concentrations and the prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and hyper-LDL cholesterolemia from the restricted cubic smoothing spline. A higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was observed among participants in the first tertile of serum folate concentrations (OR,1.38; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.79) than among those in the second tertile. However, a higher prevalence of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia was identified for both the first and third serum folate concentration tertiles (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.08 to 2.05 and OR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.20 to 2.20, respectively); furthermore, in these tertiles, the prevalence of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia was more pronounced among obese participants. Non-linear associations may exist between serum folate concentrations and the prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and hyper-LDL cholesterolemia in adults. The findings suggest that more accurate recommendations about folate intake and folic acid fortification and supplementation should be provided.

Trends in conventional cardiovascular risk factors and myocardial infarction subtypes among young Chinese men with a first acute myocardial infarction.

BackgroundThere is limited data on the characteristics of conventional risk factors (RFs) in young Chinese men hospitalized with a first acute myocardial infarction (AMI).HypothesisWe analyzed the trends in and prevalence of cardiovascular RFs and subtypes of MI during the first AMI in young Chinese men.MethodsA total of 2739 men aged 18–44 years hospitalized for a first AMI were identified from 2007 to 2017. The overall prevalence of RFs and their respective temporal trends and subtypes of AMI were evaluated.ResultsThe most prevalent conditions were smoking, followed by hypertension and then obesity. Patients aged <35 years had a much higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and obesity. Compared with a similar reference population in the United States, young Chinese men had a higher prevalence of smoking and dyslipidemia, but a lower prevalence of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. The prevalence of hypertension increased from 2007 through 2017 (p trend <.001), whereas smoking decreased gradually. AMI frequently presented as ST‐segment elevation MI (STEMI) (77.5%). Cluster of conventional RFs (3 RFs, odds ratio [OR]: 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–2.57; ≥4 RFs, OR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.55–4.03] and multivessel disease (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.08–1.60) increased the risk of non‐STEMI (NSTEMI).ConclusionsConventional RFs were highly prevalent in young Chinese men who were hospitalized for first AMI events, and the temporal trends varied different between China and US populations. Multivessel disease and cluster of conventional RFs are closely related to NSTEMI. Optimized preventive strategies among young adults are warranted.

508 Incidence and determinants of prosthesis-patient mismatch after transcatheter aortic valve replacement using predicted indexed effective orifice area

Abstract Aims A small effective orifice area (EOA) by body surface area (BSA), defined as prosthesis–patient mismatch (PPM), is associated with elevated transprosthetic pressure gradients, less ventricular remodelling, and a worse prognosis. Calculating PPM by dividing the normal reference value of EOA for the model and size of the prosthetic valve (predicted PPM), instead of using the continuity equation has been recently confirmed as more accurate after trans catheter aortic valve intervention (TAVI), providing a stronger association with post-procedural haemodynamic outcomes. However, current evidence using this new definition is still limited, thus impairing generalizability. Accordingly, this analysis aims to extend such evidence providing incidence, and determinants of predicted PPM (PPMp) in an all-comers population undergoing TAVR with a high prevalence of self-expandable devices. Methods 395 patients who underwent TAVI at our Institution from September 2008 to November 2020 were included in this analysis. PPMp was then classified as moderate if ≤ 0.85 cm2/m2 and severe if ≤ 0.65 cm2/m2 as well as moderate if ≤ 0.70 cm2/m2 and severe if ≤ 0.55 cm2/m2 for patients with a body mass index &amp;gt; 30, as recommended by the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 definition. The independent association between baseline clinical and procedural variables and the presence of moderate or severe PPMp was investigated with cross-sectional logistic regression analysis. Results 11 patients (2.78%) had severe and 33 (8.35%) moderate PPMp. Patients with moderate or severe PPMp (m/s PPMp) were younger, female, with a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia, prior aortic valve implantation and balloon expandable device and lower prevalence of chronic obstructive disease (COPD). Post-procedural mean gradient was higher in patients with m/s PPMp. The independent clinical and procedural correlates associated with higher likelihood of m/s PPMp were valve in valve procedure (ViV) and the use of a balloon-expandable device. Conclusions Moderate or severe PPMp was observed only in a small part of patients underwent TAVI, leading, however, a higher post-procedural mean gradient compared to those without PPMp. Balloon expandable devices and ViV were the strongest determinant of moderate or severe PPM.

Normal weight obesity is associated with hypercholesterolemia and low muscle mass in persons living with HIV on antiretroviral treatment

Objectives: Normal weight obesity (NWO) is defined as a condition of normal body weight, but with high body fat percentage. Clinical and immunologic implications of NWO in persons living with HIV (PLHIV) remain unknown. The aim of this study was to examine NWO prevalence and its associations with metabolic and immunologic measurements in a cohort of PLHIV on antiretroviral treatment (ART).Methods: We enrolled 73 adult PLHIV on ART. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. NWO was defined as body mass index 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 and body fat ≥25%. We determined triacylglycerols, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, blood glucose, blood pressure, bone mineral density, inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and IL-6) and CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell activation.Results: The prevalence of NWO was 49% (36 of 73). Participants with NWO showed lower CD4+ T-cell percentage (25 versus 27%, P = 0.03), lower CD4/CD8 ratio (0.62 versus 0.82, P = 0.02), lower muscle mass (6.84 versus 7.11 kg/m2, P = 0.01) and higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (26% versus 6%, P = 0.03) than individuals with normal body composition. No differences in inflammation/activation markers were observed between groups (P > 0.05 in all cases).Conclusion: NWO was frequent in a cohort of Mexican PLHIV on ART and was associated with lower muscle mass, hypercholesterolemia, lower CD4+ T-cell percentage, and lower CD4/CD8 ratio. The incorporation of body fat measurements in the regular physical examination of PLHIV could contribute to early identification of the NWO condition and lead to better management of possible long-term morbidity.

Prevalence of severe hypercholesterolemia observed in different hospitals in Andalusia and Ceuta

Severe hypercholesterolaemia is a major cardiovascular risk factor. Early detection and treatment can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Given the high prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia in Andalusia, the development of a screening strategy for its detection in Primary Care may be an efficient measure. ObjectiveTo identify patients in Primary Care with severe hypercholesterolaemia that may increase their cardiovascular risk by reviewing LDL-cholesterol results in computerised laboratory systems. Material and methodsObservational, retrospective, multi-centre study in 16 hospitals in Andalusia and Ceuta. Anonymous analytical data were acquired from the different laboratory computer systems for the year 2018, and exclusively from Macarena Hospital for the year 2019. ResultsFrom a total of 1,969,035 determinations on ≥18 years old, 2791 patients (0.14%) were detected with LDL-cholesterol >250 mg/dl and from a total of 2.327.211 determinations studied in children under 18 years old, 3804 patients (0.16%) were detected with LDL-cholesterol >135 mg/dl. The highest incidence of possible genetic hypercholesterolaemia in adults corresponded to the province of Seville with 23.6 cases/1000 determinations, while in minors, the highest incidence corresponded to the province of Cadiz with 75 possible cases/1000 determinations. A geographical triangle of greater prevalence is observed between the provinces of Seville, Huelva and Cadiz. ConclusionsThe development of a screening strategy using a computerised review of LDL-cholesterol in Primary Care detects a large number of subjects with severe hypercholesterolaemia that could benefit from an early intervention.

Organization of lipid centers operation in the Russian Federation — new opportunities

Project of the Russian National Atherosclerosis SocietyIn 2016, Guidelines on the medical care organization to the patients with hereditary atherogenic lipid disorders in the regions of Russia were published, which described and presented the principles of routing patients with hereditary dyslipidemia and the organization of medical care for them within the current regulatory documents. In December 2018, the Russian Ministry of Health approved clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia. Thus, persons with a severe hereditary dyslipidemia were able to get free medication with expensive lipid-lowering drugs and receive apheresis. Following the European ones, the Russian guidelines on the management of lipid metabolism disorders were updated: lower target low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were adopted. In the Russian population, there is a high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, including familial monogenic and polygenic types. Therefore, timely detection and routing to a lipid center or an office to a specialist (cardiologist, lipidologist), adequate and modern prescription of lipid-lowering therapy will make an important contribution not only to secondary, but also to primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular complications.

Clinical and subclinical findings in heterozygous ABCC6 carriers: results from a Belgian cohort and clinical practice guidelines

BackgroundBiallelic pathogenic variants in the ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 6 (ABCC6) gene cause pseudoxanthoma elasticum, a multisystemic ectopic calcification disorder, while heterozygous ABCC6 variants are associated with an increased...

Prevalencia de hipercolesterolemias severas observadas en los distintos hospitales de Andalucía y Ceuta

Severe hypercholesterolaemia is a major cardiovascular risk factor. Early detection and treatment can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Given the high prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia in Andalusia, the development of a screening strategy for its detection in Primary Care may be an efficient measure. ObjectiveTo identify patients in Primary Care with severe hypercholesterolaemia that may increase their cardiovascular risk by reviewing LDL-cholesterol results in computerised laboratory systems. Material and methodsObservational, retrospective, multi-centre study in 16 hospitals in Andalusia and Ceuta. Anonymous analytical data were acquired from the different laboratory computer systems for the year 2018, and exclusively from Macarena Hospital for the year 2019. ResultsFrom a total of 1,969,035 determinations on≥18 years old, 2,791 patients (0.14%) were detected with LDL-cholesterol>250mg/dl and from a total of 2.327.211 determinations studied in children under 18 years old, 3,804 patients (0.16%) were detected with LDL-cholesterol>135mg/dL. The highest incidence of possible genetic hypercholesterolaemia in adults corresponded to the province of Seville with 23.6 cases/1,000 determinations, while in minors, the highest incidence corresponded to the province of Cadiz with 75 possible cases/1,000 determinations. A geographical triangle of greater prevalence is observed between the provinces of Seville, Huelva and Cadiz. ConclusionsThe development of a screening strategy using a computerised review of LDL-cholesterol in Primary Care detects a large number of subjects with severe hypercholesterolaemia that could benefit from an early intervention.

Identifying endemic areas and estimating the prevalence of hyperlipidemia in Taiwan's townships

This study aimed to evaluate geographic variations and differences in the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia between Taiwan's townships. The prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia was evaluated according to the geographic characteristics of the people in the Adult Preventive Service Program from 2009 to 2010. The prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia in 2009 and 2010 was used and divided into three groups. Then, all townships were classed as having a significantly high prevalence, low prevalence, or an undetermined prevalence. The mean prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia was 29.26% and 43.96%, respectively. Geographic variations were observed: 125 townships had a high prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, 122 townships had a low prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, 142 townships had a high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, and 159 townships had a low prevalence. A higher prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia was noted in the aboriginal areas. Geographic variations exist in the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Our findings indicate that the prevention and treatment services in these high prevalence areas should be a priority.

Inflammation in Psoriatic Arthritis: The DIETA trial – Dietetic IntervEntion in psoriaTic Arthritis

AbstractThe oxidative stress has been considered one of the main aspects related to psoriatic arthritis (PsA), diabetes, hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome. Based in the premise that there is a close relationship between the metabolic and inflammatory domain in PsA patients, our aim was to evaluate the role of a 12-week nutritional intervention, including hypocaloric diet and antioxidant supplementation, on inflammatory markers and disease activity in patients with PsA.A total of 97 patients diagnosed with PsA (CASPAR, 2006) were included in this randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled trial. Patients were distributed in three different groups: control (C) that received placebo (3 g of soybean oil); diet plus supplementation (DS) with hypocaloric diet plus omega 3 supplementation (3g); diet (D) with hypocaloric diet plus placebo supplementation (3 g of soybean oil). It was evaluated skin (PASI and BSA) and joint activity (DAS28-CRP, DAS28-ESR, BASDAI) and biochemical parameters, such as inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, adiponectin, TBARs) and glucose and fat metabolism serum levels (HbA1c, fasting glucose and insulin, total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, AGER, oxidized- LDL, electronegative LDL (-) and anti-LDL (-) autoantibody) at baseline (T0) and after 12-week intervention (T3). Descriptive statistics are expressed as mean, standard deviation and frequency. Results were then compared using Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA, Wilocoxon, Man-Whitney and T-Student test and multiple regressions. Level of significance was set as p &lt; 0.05.At baseline there was an increase of inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, TBARs, AGER, LDL modifications), decrease of anti-inflammatory (adiponectin) and high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (41.2%) and peripheral insulin resistance (60%). Our data showed a significant correlation between electronegative LDL and PASI and a correlation between AGER and DAS28-ESR, indicating that a decrease of inflammatory parameters could be related to skin and joint improvement. However, after 12-week nutritional intervention there has no improvement of proinflammatory markers in the group. There was only a significant increase of adiponectin serum levels in all 3 groups, suggesting a benefit effect on chronic inflammation. According our results, omega 3 supplementation was not more effective to improve inflammation, oxidative stress and disease activity.

Characteristics of Patients with Diabetes Initiating Sodium Glucose Co-transporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT2i): Real-World Results from Three Administrative Databases in Japan.

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of new users of sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in comparison with those of new users of other oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) using data retrieved from three administrative databases in Japan.MethodsThis study included adult patients from each database who started an OAD between 2014 and 2017. Outpatients who started SGLT2i therapy were included in the SGLT2i cohort. The remaining outpatients were grouped according to the OAD class of their earliest initial prescription after no use of the index OAD during the 6-month pre-index period. Diabetes-related complications were evaluated using the Diabetes Complication Severity Index.ResultsIn total, 176,355 patients in the hospital-based administrative database (H-dataset), 98,361 in the pharmacy claims database (P-dataset) and 37,786 in the insurance claims database (I-dataset) were analyzed. In the H-dataset, SGLT2i users, compared with users of other OADs, tended to be younger (mean age at index: 57.7 vs. 60.3–69.2 years) and to have a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (73.5 vs. 55.2–71.4%), a higher mean body weight (74.4 vs. 60.5–70.8 kg), a higher body mass index (27.6 vs. 23.5–26.4 kg/m2) and a higher glycated hemoglobin level (8.4 vs. 7.4–8.1%). There were no distinct differences in the prevalence of complications between SGLT2i users and users of other OADs in the H-dataset. Similar trends were noted in the other datasets.ConclusionPatients initiating SGLT2i therapy differed in several characteristics from new users of other OADs. SGLT2i were prescribed more frequently to younger patients, those at increased cardiovascular risk or those with poorer glycemic control.FundingAstellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1007/s13300-019-0577-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Correction of Hypercholesterolemia in Primary and Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases: Features and Controversial Issues

The article discusses the current prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in everyday clinical practice in patients of different risk categories and approaches to its correction in the most frequently used clinical guidelines. High prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in practical health care with little change over time is shown. The existing problems of the practical implementation of the principles of a healthy lifestyle as the basis for reducing cardiovascular risk and possible solutions are described. Attention is focused on a low number of patients taking statins, and even less – reaching recommended target cholesterol levels. It is emphasized the validity of lower, compared to previous, target cholesterol levels in National recommendations on the correction of dyslipidemia in patients with proven atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular diseases as well as the feasibility in some cases of combined lipidlowering therapy (statins in combination with intestinal cholesterol absorption blockers, PCSK9 inhibitors, high doses of ethyl eicosopentaenoic acid). It is commented the need to prescribe statins in persons older than 75 years, but with a careful approach. Particular attention is paid to the use of statins in the primary prevention of cardiovascular complications. The validity of prescribing fixed moderate doses of statins for this purpose is discussed, which is both scientifically based and more realistic in practical terms.

ASSESSMENT OF HEALTHY LIFESTYLE COMPLIANCE AMONG PRIVATE-PRACTICE DOCTORS AND STUDENTS (MEDICAL STUDENTS, INTERNS AND CLINICAL RESIDENTS)

Introduction.The role of healthy lifestyles in the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases is very important. Lifestyle of medical personnel, especially future doctors, may have great influence on healthy lifestyle compliance of patients. The objective of our study was to compare the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among doctors and students of medical educational institutions who underwent screening during The Russian Congress of Cardiology in 2016.Material and methods.During the Russian National Congress of Cardiology (Ekaterinburg, 20-23 September 2016), the participants were screened for the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. Participants filled out the questionnaire on the social status, nutrition, physical activity, smoking status, frequency of alcohol consumption, therapy. Anthropometry was performed in accordance with standard procedures. Blood pressure (BP) was measured on the right hand in a sitting position after a 5-minute rest with the automatic tonometer OMRON (Japan). The level of cholesterol and blood glucose was measured by express method using EasyTouch® GCHb (Taiwan).Results.The screening included 535 participants aged 18-78 years, the majority of whom (80 %) were women. There were 193 students, 342 doctors. Compared with students, doctors were significantly more likely to have sufficient intake of vegetables, fruits (50 vs 70 %) and fish (76 vs 88%), p&lt;0.05, and comparable levels of salt overtaking (39 vs 34 %) and hypodynamia (35% in both groups). Only 10% of students and 7% of doctors smoked. The expected increase in the prevalence of biological risk factors in accordance with the age was significantly more common in doctors: hypercholesterolemia (63 vs 30 %), hyperglycemia (25 vs 14 %), hypertension (36 vs 5 %), obesity (according to WC – 45 vs 10 %, according to BMI – 19 vs 6 %), p&lt;0.05. The profile of the most common risk factors did not differ among doctors and students: hypercholesterolemia and overweight in both groups took the leading positions. Also in accordance with the age, there were more often complaints of snoring-24% in doctors and 7% in students.Conclusion. The students had a less favorable profile of behavioral factors in diet compared to doctors, and despite of the expected age differences, a high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and overweight was revealed. Obviously, it is necessary to strengthen educational work in this area at the stage of training of nurses and doctors to preserve the health of both medical personnel and their patients.

Hypercholesterolemia Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment and Control among Adults in Malaysia: The 2015 National Health and Morbidity Survey, Malaysia

BACKGROUND &amp; OBJECTIVE: Dyslipidaemia is one of the main modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, it is crucial to examine the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypercholesterolemia and its associated factors among adults in Malaysia.METHODS: We used data from 19,935 respondents aged 18 years and above who responded to the cholesterol module in the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2015. The survey employed a two-stage stratified sampling to select a representative sample of Malaysian adults. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyse the data.RESULTS: The overall prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was 47.7%. Among those who were diagnosed to have hypercholesterolemia, only 19.2% were aware of their hypercholesterolemia status. Only a mere 12.7% (95% CI: 12.4 -13.1) among those who were aware were on treatment and out of which only 53.7% (95% CI: 50.1-57.2) had their cholesterol levels controlled. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was associated with gender, age, ethnicity, education level, occupation, marital status, obesity, hypertension and diabetes. Awareness and treatment of hypercholesterolemia saw a similar pattern (except for gender and locality). For control of hypercholesterolemia, the female gender and secondary education levels were the only significant associated factors.CONCLUSION: The overall high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in addition to poor awareness, treatment and control are significant public health problems. Intensified health campaigns and programmes especially among high-risk groups should be implemented in order to reduce or prevent complications of hypercholesterolemia in the near future.

Associations between Socioeconomic Status and the Prevalence and Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia in a General Japanese Population: NIPPON DATA2010.

Aim: To investigate associations between socioeconomic status (SES) and the prevalence and treatment status of hypercholesterolemia in a general Japanese population.Methods: In 2010, we established a cohort study of 2417 adults (age 20–91 yr) from 300 randomly selected areas across Japan who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Survey of Japan. We cross-sectionally examined an association between SES and (1) prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in 2417 participants (999 men and 1418 women) and (2) not receiving medication for hypercholesterolemia in 654 participants (215 men and 439 women). SES included employment status, marital status, length of education, and household expenditures. Hypercholesterolemia was defined as a total serum cholesterol level of ≥ 6.21 mmol/L (240 mg/dL) or the use of lipid-lowering medications.Results: The overall prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was 21.5% in men and 31.0% in women. In men, the lowest quintile of household expenditures was associated with a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (28.3%) compared with the upper 4 quintiles (19.9%) (multivariable-adjusted odds ratio 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–2.38). Among participants with hypercholesterolemia, 55.4% of men and 55.1% of women were not receiving medication. Unmarried men were more likely to be untreated (75.0%) than married men (50.9%) (multivariable-adjusted odds ratio 2.53; 95%CI 1.05–6.08). SES had no significant effects in women.Conclusion: In a general population of Japanese men, low household expenditures were associated with a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, and unmarried men with hypercholesterolemia were less likely to receive medication.

High rates of hypertension, diabetes, elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease risk factors in HIV-infected patients in Malawi.

Objectives:Data on cardiovascular disease risks among HIV-infected patients taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) over long periods of time are lacking in Sub-Saharan Africa.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted in Chiradzulu, Malawi from December 2015 to June 2016. HIV-infected persons on ART for more than 10 years (patients) and HIV-negative individuals (controls) from selected clinics participated. Following informed consent, a standardized questionnaire, clinical and laboratory examinations were performed. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors was calculated and stratified by age group.Results:Overall, 379 HIV-infected patients and 356 controls participated. Median time on ART among patients was 11.6 years (interquartile range 10.6–12.4).Within the 30–44, 45–59, and at least 60-year age groups, respectively, the prevalence of hypertension was 10.8, 20.4, and 44.7% among patients and 6.1, 25.8, and 42.9% among controls. Hypertension was previously undiagnosed in 60.3% patients and 37.0% controls with elevated blood pressure. The prevalence of diabetes within the respective age groups was 5.0, 6.4, and 13.2% among patients, and 3.4, 4.2, and 1.7% among controls. HIV-infected patients were more likely to have an glycated hemoglobin at least 6.0% (adjusted odds ratio 1.9; 95% confidence interval 1.1–3.2, P = 0.02). Prevalence of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol more than 130 mg/dl within the respective age groups was 8.0, 15.4, and 23.7% among patients and 1.8, 12.5, and 11.8% among controls.Conclusion: Noncommunicable diseases were a significant burden in Malawi, with high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in all survey participants and an especially acute diabetes burden among older HIV infected. Hypertension screening and treatment services are needed among identified high-risk groups to cover unmet needs.

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition and Successful Ageing in Elderly Individuals: The Multinational MEDIS Study

Background: The role of diet and inflammation in successful ageing is not transparent, and as such, is still being investigated. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the inflammatory potential of dietary habits in the successful ageing of a random sample of older adults living in the Mediterranean basin and who participated in the MEDIS (MEDiterranean ISlands) study. Methods: During 2005-2016, 3,128 older adults (aged 65-100 years) from 24 Mediterranean islands and the rural Mani region (Peloponnesus) of Greece were enrolled in the study. A multidimensional successful ageing index consisting of 10 components was employed. A validated and reproducible Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to evaluate the dietary habits of the older adults. A nutrition anti-inflammatory (NAI) score based on the participants' specific dietary habits was assessed. Results: Participants with high NAI scores (proinflammatory nutrition) had a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and lower levels of successful ageing. After adjusting for several confounders, the NAI score was associated with successful ageing (-0.03, 95% CI -0.5 to -0.006). Stratified analysis by gender and advanced age revealed heterogeneity in the NAI score, predicting successful ageing. Conclusions: The inflammatory potential of nutrition was reported as an important factor for successful ageing, suggesting that further research is needed on the role of anti- and proinflammatory dietary habits in healthy and successful ageing.

Clinical outcome of patients with implantation of second-generation drug-eluting stents in the right coronary ostium: insights from 2-year follow-up of the TWENTE trial.

The aim of the present study was to assess the impact on clinical outcome of right coronary artery (RCA) ostial coverage with second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES). Treatment of the aorta-ostial (AO) region of the RCA with bare metal stents and first-generation DES has been associated with a higher risk of target-lesion revascularization (TLR). Of the 1,391 patients of the prospective TWENTE trial, we identified 321 (23%) with single-vessel RCA treatment, who were categorized into stenting with AO stent coverage (AOC) versus stenting without AOC. The AO region was defined as 3 mm from the aortic orifice. The 67 (20.9%) patients with AOC showed more severe lesion calcifications than the 254 patients without AOC (31.3% vs. 12.6%; P < 0.01). In the AOC group, there was a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and family history of coronary disease (75.4% vs. 61.6%, and 68.7% vs. 53.5%, respectively; P = 0.03). During 2-year follow-up, patients in the AOC group had a higher incidence of TLR (7.5% vs. 1.6%; P = 0.02). Following adjustment for confounders, AOC independently predicted TLR with an adjusted hazard ratio of 4.1 (95% CI: 1.17-14.39; P = 0.03). AO treatment of the RCA with second-generation DES is feasible, but our data suggest that stent coverage of the right AO segment remains a predictor of TLR.

No Association Between Cyclosporine Levels and Dyslipidemia?

Dear Editor, The recent manuscript analyzing whether there was a correlation between cyclosporine levels and dyslipidemia after renal transplantation in 1391 kidney transplant recipients (1) was read with great interest. Dyslipidemia is a common problem after renal transplantation and a potentially modifiable factor (2). This is particularly important because cardiovascular morbidity significantly contributes to the below-average life expectancy found in renal transplant patients (3). In their cross-sectional study of 1391 subjects, Hosseini et al. found a very high prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (58.8%) and hypertriglyceridemia (86.6%) (1). Using univariate correlation analysis, they found only a weak correlation between cyclosporine levels two hours post-intake (C2) and dyslipidemia (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.18 and 0.16 for hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia, respectively). C2-monitoring is the preferred method for assessing cyclosporine exposure, although there are some challenges with timely C2 blood sampling, and some patients may suffer toxicity or rejection when switching from trough level (C0) to C2 monitoring (4). Using logistic multivariate regression, only serum creatinine was associated with hyperlipidemia. Hosseini’s study did not assess the correlation of steroid levels or the steroid dose and dyslipidemia, even though steroid therapy is a well-known risk factor for hyperlipidemia and steroid avoidance has been a powerful tool to reduce the prevalence of hyperlipidemia in liver transplantation (5). Hosseini’s study has several other limitations. No validation of the fasting state occurred. The results of the logistic regression were not well documented, and it is unclear what factors were included in the multivariate analysis. The limitations of the cross-sectional retrospective study are not well discussed, and such a study can only assess an association, no causality. Nonetheless, the stronger correlation of the hypertriglyceridemia with the GFR (measured as serum creatinine) is interesting; it is disappointing that targeting optimal calcineurin inhibitor exposure has little effect on hyperlipidemia. The authors call for prospective trials targeting better lipid control, with the hope that long-term outcomes will improve. The authors are correct in their assessment that chronic kidney disease (CKD)-related complications after renal transplantation are poorly managed (3, 6, 7). Often, there is undertreatment of dyslipidemia. Longevity after renal transplantation could be improved significantly if similar multidisciplinary clinics were introduced as for CKD in the primary kidneys (8). It is of the utmost importance to determine whether targeting conventional cardiovascular risk factors can effectively modify cardiovascular morbidity (9). In a large study of national data, Sciarretta et al. found no association of renal damage with cardiovascular disease and the individual cardiovascular risk profile (9). It is also important to determine which intervention is most effective and what novel therapies can be employed to lower triglycerides. There is no known effective treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. Dietary approaches such as supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids should be studied prospectively (10). Nonetheless, the undersigned is delighted that the attention is shifting towards modifiable long-term complications after renal transplantation. Cardiovascular risk factors are among the most significant factors affecting long-term outcomes in renal transplant recipients and are responsible for deaths with functioning graft. CKD is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity following transplantation, and has a high prevalence in both renal and non-renal transplant patients. The relationship between impaired GFR and dyslipidemia needs to be studied further and effective therapeutic interventions have to be found.