cardiovascular-agents and Dyslipidemias

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Many lines of evidence suggest that the disturbances in circadian rhythm are responsible for the development of CVDs; however, circadian misalignment is not yet a treatable trait in clinical practice. The circadian rhythm is controlled by the central clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and clock genes (molecular clock) located in all cells. Dyslipidaemia and vascular inflammation are two hallmarks of atherosclerosis and numerous experimental studies conclude that they are under direct influence by both central and molecular clocks. This review will summarise the results of experimental studies on lipid metabolism, vascular inflammation and circadian rhythm, and translate them into the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. We discuss the effect of time-respected administration of medications in cardiovascular medicine. We review the evidence on the effect of bright light and melatonin on cardiovascular health, lipid metabolism and vascular inflammation. Finally, we suggest an agenda for future research and recommend on clinical practice.

Topics: Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Circadian Rhythm; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Inflammation

Advances in pharmacogenomics have paved the way for personalized medicine. Cardiovascular diseases still represent the leading cause of mortality in the world. The aim of this review is to summarize the background, rationale, and evidence of pharmacogenomics in cardiovascular medicine, in particular, the use of antiplatelet drugs, anticoagulants, and drugs used for the treatment of dyslipidemia.. Randomized clinical trials have supported the role of a genotype-guided approach for antiplatelet therapy in patients with coronary heart disease undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions. Numerous studies demonstrate how the risk of ineffectiveness of new oral anticoagulants and vitamin K anticoagulants is linked to various genetic polymorphisms. Furthermore, there is growing evidence to support the association of some genetic variants and poor adherence to statin therapy, for example, due to the appearance of muscular symptoms. There is evidence for resistance to some drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia, such as anti-PCSK9.. Pharmacogenomics has the potential to improve patient care by providing the right drug to the right patient and could guide the identification of new drug therapies for cardiovascular disease. This is very important in cardiovascular diseases, which have high morbidity and mortality. The improvement in therapy could be reflected in the reduction of healthcare costs and patient mortality.

Topics: Anticoagulants; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Pharmacogenetics

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a native plant to Paraguay. The extracts have been used as a famous sweetening agent, and the bioactive components derived from stevia possess a broad spectrum of therapeutical potential for various illnesses. Among its medicinal benefits are anti-hypertensive, anti-tumorigenic, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemia. Statins (3-hydro-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor) are a class of drugs used to treat atherosclerosis. Statins are explicitly targeting the HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme in the rate-limiting step of cholesterol biosynthesis. Despite being widely used in regulating plasma cholesterol levels, the adverse effects of the drug are a significant concern among clinicians and patients. Hence, steviol glycosides derived from stevia have been proposed as an alternative in replacing statins. Diterpene glycosides from stevia, such as stevioside and rebaudioside A have been evaluated for their efficacy in alleviating cholesterol levels. These glycosides are a potential candidate in treating and preventing atherosclerosis provoked by circulating lipid retention in the sub-endothelial lining of the artery. The present review is an effort to integrate the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, involvement of lipid droplets biogenesis and its associated proteins in atherogenesis, current approaches to treat atherosclerosis, and pharmacological potential of stevia in treating the disease.

Topics: Animals; Atherosclerosis; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Heart Disease Risk Factors; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Lipid Droplets; Lipids; Plant Extracts; Risk Assessment; Stevia; Treatment Outcome

Inflammation is an obligatory marker of arterial disease, both stemming from the inflammatory activity of cholesterol itself and from well-established molecular mechanisms. Raised progenitor cell recruitment after major events and clonal hematopoiesis related mechanisms have provided an improved understanding of factors regulating inflammatory phenomena. Trials with inflammation antagonists have led to an extensive evaluation of biomarkers such as the high sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP), not exerting a causative role, but frequently indicative of the individual cardiovascular (CV) risk. Aim of this review is to provide indication on the anti-inflammatory profile of agents of general use in CV prevention, i.e. affecting lipids, blood pressure, diabetes as well nutraceuticals such as n-3 fatty acids. A crucial issue in the evaluation of the benefit of the anti-inflammatory activity is the frequent discordance between a beneficial activity on a major risk factor and associated changes of hsCRP, as in the case of statins vs PCSK9 antagonists. In hypertension, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors exert an optimal anti-inflammatory activity, vs the case of sartans. The remarkable preventive activity of SLGT-2 inhibitors in heart failure is not associated with a clear anti-inflammatory mechanism. Finally, icosapent ethyl has been shown to reduce the CV risk in hypertriglyceridemia, with a 27 % reduction of hsCRP. The inflammation-based approach to arterial disease has considerably gained from an improved understanding of the clinical diagnostic strategy and from a better knowledge on the mode of action of numerous agents, including nutraceuticals.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antihypertensive Agents; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cardiovascular System; Diabetes Mellitus; Dietary Supplements; Dyslipidemias; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Heart Disease Risk Factors; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Risk Assessment; Signal Transduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder. As with other common chronic diseases, multiple risk factors contribute to the onset and progression of AD. Many researchers have evaluated the epidemiologic and pathophysiological association between AD, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and cerebrovascular diseases (CBVDs), including commonly reported risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Relevant therapies of CVDs/CBVDs for the attenuation of AD have also been empirically investigated. Considering the challenges of new drug development, in terms of cost and time, multifactorial approaches such as therapeutic repositioning of CVD/CBVD medication should be explored to delay the onset and progression of AD. Thus, in this review, we discuss our current understanding of the association between cardiovascular risk factors and AD, as revealed by clinical and non-clinical studies, as well as the therapeutic implications of CVD/CBVD medication that may attenuate AD. Furthermore, we discuss future directions by evaluating ongoing trials in the field.

Topics: Alzheimer Disease; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cerebrovascular Disorders; Clinical Trials as Topic; Diabetes Mellitus; Disease Progression; Drug Repositioning; Dyslipidemias; Heart Disease Risk Factors; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Neuroprotective Agents

Male and female sexual dysfunction (SD) is considered a multifactorial condition. Numerous studies have shown the involvement of inflammatory processes in this pathological condition. Sexual intercourse requires healthy and functioning vessels to supply the pelvic region in both males and females, generating penile erection and clitoral and vaginal lubrication, respectively. Cardiovascular diseases and associated risk factors may contribute negatively to pelvic blood flow, possibly through immune system activation.. The study aimed to address the correlation between vascular inflammation driven by immune system activation and SD in males and females.. A literature review was performed to identify articles addressing male and female SD and vascular inflammation. Key words included "male and female sexual dysfunction," "vascular inflammation," "iliac and pudendal arteries dysfunction," "genitourinary tract," and "blood flow.". Management of systemic and local inflammation may be a useful alternative to improve SD and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the future.. Increased levels of cytokines and chemokines have been detected in humans and animals with hypertension, obesity, and diabetic conditions. Chronic activation of the innate immune system, especially by pathogen- or damage-associated molecular patterns, and metabolic-related disorders may act as triggers further contributing to an increased inflammatory condition. Due to the reduced size of vessels, SD and retinal vascular impairments have been shown to be predictive factors for cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, considering that blood flow to the genitalia is essential for sexual function, endothelial dysfunction and vascular remodeling, secondary to chronic immune system activation, may be implicated in male and female vasculogenic SD.. Several conditions appear to play a role in SD. In the present review, we have identified a role for the immune system in generating vascular and tissue impairments contributing to erectile dysfunction and female SD. Calmasini FB, Klee N, Webb RC, et al. Impact of Immune System Activation and Vascular Impairment on Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:604-613.

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cytokines; Diabetes Complications; Dyslipidemias; Female; Genitalia, Female; Genitalia, Male; Gonadal Steroid Hormones; Humans; Hypertension; Immune System Diseases; Immunity, Innate; Male; Obesity; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Vascular Diseases; Vasculitis

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in humans revealed contradictory results regarding the effect of vitamin C supplementation on blood lipids. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs investigating the effect of vitamin C supplementation on total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides and to determine whether the effects are modified by the participants' or intervention characteristics.. Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library) were searched from inception until August 2014 for RCTs supplementing adult participants with vitamin C for ≥ 2 weeks and reporting changes in blood lipids.. Overall, vitamin C supplementation did not change blood lipids concentration significantly. However, supplementation reduced total cholesterol in younger participants (≤52 years age) (-0.26 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.45, -0.07) and LDL-C in healthy participants (-0.32 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.57, -0.07). In diabetics, vitamin C supplementation reduced triglycerides significantly (-0.15 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.30, -0.002) and increased HDL-C significantly (0.06 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.11). Meta-regression analyses showed the changes in total cholesterol (β: -0.24, CI: -0.36, -0.11) and in triglycerides (β: -0.17, CI: -0.30, -0.05) following vitamin C supplementation were greater in those with higher concentrations of these lipids at baseline. Greater increase in HDL-C was observed in participants with lower baseline plasma concentrations of vitamin C (β: -0.002, CI: -0.003, -0.0001).. Overall, vitamin C supplementation had no significant effect on lipid profile. However, subgroup and sensitivity analyses showed significant reductions in blood lipids following supplementation in sub-populations with dyslipidaemia or low vitamin C status at baseline. PROSPERO Database registration: CRD42014013487, http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hyperlipidemias; Hypolipidemic Agents; Oxidative Stress; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Reproducibility of Results; Risk

The metabolic syndrome is a multiplex risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. It is composed of atherogenic dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance and elevated glucose, a pro-thrombotic state, and a pro-inflammatory state. Excess energy intake and concomitant obesity are the major drivers of the syndrome. Lifestyle intervention can reverse metabolic risk factors, but at times, drug therapies or bariatric surgery may be required to control more overt risk factors.

Topics: Atherosclerosis; Bariatric Surgery; Cardiovascular Agents; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hyperglycemia; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Metabolic Syndrome; Obesity; Risk Factors; Risk Reduction Behavior; Treatment Outcome

The HMG Co-enzyme inhibitors and new lipid-modifying agents expand their new therapeutic target options in the field of medical profession. Statins have been described as the most effective class of drugs to reduce serum cholesterol levels. Since the discovery of the first statin nearly 30 years ago, these drugs have become the main therapeutic approach to lower cholesterol levels. The present scientific research demonstrates numerous non-lipid modifiable effects of statins termed as pleiotropic effects of statins, which could be beneficial for the treatment of various devastating disorders. The most important positive effects of statins are anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, anti-diabetes, and antithrombotic, improving endothelial dysfunction and attenuating vascular remodeling besides many others which are discussed under the scope of this review. In particular, inhibition of Rho and its downstream target, Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK), and their agonistic action on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) can be viewed as the principle mechanisms underlying the pleiotropic effects of statins. With gradually increasing knowledge of new therapeutic targets of statins, their use has also been advocated in chronic inflammatory disorders for example rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In the scope of review, we highlight statins and their pleiotropic effects with reference to their harmful and beneficial effects as a novel approach for their use in the treatment of devastating disorders. Graphical abstract Pleiotropic effect of statins.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Agents; Drug Design; Dyslipidemias; History, 20th Century; History, 21st Century; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Immunologic Factors; Lipids; Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors; Protein Kinase Inhibitors; Purinergic P1 Receptor Agonists; rac1 GTP-Binding Protein; rho-Associated Kinases; Signal Transduction

Options for modification of lipoprotein metabolism and, thus, for reduction of atherothrombotic complication have widened over recent years. Apart from the development of novel approaches new pharmacological formulations of common lipid lowering drugs have been prepared- e.g. statin-containing nanoparticles, fibrate nanoparticles with a much higher bioavailability etc. Even the oldest lipid lowering agents - resins - have not been forgotten due to its once again discovered positive impact of these agents on glucose homeostasis while optimally complementing the action of statins. Clinical trials of therapies targeting HDL particle metabolism are being in progress despite we have not gathered any unambiguous evidence of positive effect of the CETP inhibitors or apoA1 mime-tics on the progression of atherosclerosis. Brand new approaches in the treatment of dyslipidemia including MTTP and PCSK9 inhibition or therapies utilizing anti-sense technologies rapidly accumulate evidence from clinical studies. We have already learned about their lipid-modifying efficacy particularly in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, however, data from other patients´ populations can be expected quite soon.

Topics: Acute Coronary Syndrome; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Agents; Carrier Proteins; Clinical Trials as Topic; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Hypolipidemic Agents; Proprotein Convertase 9; Proprotein Convertases; Serine Endopeptidases

Residual risk, the ongoing appreciable risk of major cardiovascular events (MCVE) in statin-treated patients who have achieved evidence-based lipid goals, remains a concern among cardiologists. Factors that contribute to this continuing risk are atherogenic non-low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and atherogenic processes unrelated to LDL cholesterol, including other risk factors, the inherent properties of statin drugs, and patient characteristics, ie, genetics and behaviors. In addition, providers, health care systems, the community, public policies, and the environment play a role. Major statin studies suggest an average 28% reduction in LDL cholesterol and a 31% reduction in relative risk, leaving a residual risk of about 69%. Incomplete reductions in risk, and failure to improve conditions that create risk, may result in ongoing progression of atherosclerosis, with new and recurring lesions in original and distant culprit sites, remodeling, arrhythmias, rehospitalizations, invasive procedures, and terminal disability. As a result, identification of additional agents to reduce residual risk, particularly administered together with statin drugs, has been an ongoing quest. The current model of atherosclerosis involves many steps during which disease may progress independently of guideline-defined elevations in LDL cholesterol. Differences in genetic responsiveness to statin therapy, differences in ability of the endothelium to regenerate and repair, and differences in susceptibility to nonlipid risk factors, such as tobacco smoking, hypertension, and molecular changes associated with obesity and diabetes, may all create residual risk. A large number of inflammatory and metabolic processes may also provide eventual therapeutic targets to lower residual risk. Classically, epidemiologic and other evidence suggested that raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol would be cardioprotective. When LDL cholesterol is aggressively lowered to targets, low HDL cholesterol levels are still inversely related to MCVE. The efflux capacity, or ability to relocate cholesterol out of macrophages, is believed to be a major antiatherogenic mechanism responsible for reduction in MCVE mediated in part by healthy HDL. HDL cholesterol is a complex molecule with antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, antiplatelet, and vasodilatory properties, among which is protection of LDL from oxidation. HDL-associated paraoxonase-1 has a major effect on endothelial f

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Evidence-Based Medicine; Guideline Adherence; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Lipids; Medication Adherence; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Practice Patterns, Physicians'; Predictive Value of Tests; Preventive Health Services; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Treatment Outcome

The prevalence of gallstones disease in Western countries is 10 - 15%. Gallstones can be one of two types - cholesterol or pigment - with cholesterol gallstones representing nearly the 80% of the total. Cholesterol and pigment gallstones have different predisposing factors: cholesterol gallstones are related to supersaturated bile in cholesterol, whereas black pigment gallstones are related to hyperbilirubinbilia factors (hemolysis, etc.); these are necessary, but not sufficient, factors to produce gallstones in vivo. Gall bladder mucosa factors (gall bladder secretion of mucin, local bile stasis and production of endogenous biliary β-glucuronidase) may coexist with the aforementioned factors and facilitate gallstone nucleation and growth. The gold-standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Several studies have reported a significant reduction in the onset of symptomatic gallstones disease in patients undergoing chronic therapy with statins, which can reduce bile cholesterol saturation. Aspirin, which has been shown to reduce the local production of gall bladder mucins (mucosal or parietal factors of gallstone formation) in animal experimental models, does not appear to reduce the risk of symptomatic gallstones disease when tested alone. The new horizon of oral therapy for the prevention of symptomatic gallstone disease needs to evaluate the long-term effect of statins and chronic aspirin administration in patients with dyslipidemia and/or atherosclerosis.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Animals; Aspirin; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Agents; Cholecystolithiasis; Cholesterol; Dyslipidemias; Gallbladder; Gallstones; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Animals; Atherosclerosis; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Agents; Diabetes Complications; Dyslipidemias; Early Diagnosis; Fibrinolytic Agents; Global Health; Health Behavior; Health Care Costs; Homocysteine; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Hyperhomocysteinemia; Hypertension; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Medication Adherence; Plaque, Atherosclerotic; Risk Factors; Risk Reduction Behavior; Stents; Thrombosis; United States

Correction of diabetic dyslipidaemia in diabetic patients is the most important factor in reducing cardiac risk. Diabetic dyslipidaemia is characterized by elevated triglycerides, low total high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and small dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. The most important therapeutic goal in diabetic dyslipidaemia is correction of the non-HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) level. Glycaemic control with particular attention to postprandial glucose control plays a role not only in improving dyslipidaemia but also in lowering cardiac events. Pioglitazone is particularly effective for improving the manifestations of diabetic dyslipidaemia, in addition to its favorable effects on systemic inflammation and hyperglycaemia. Use of statins in addition to lifestyle change is recommended in most if not all type 2 diabetic patients and the goal should be to lower the LDL to a level recommended for the patient with existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) (non-HDL-C level <100 mg/dl). In addition, therapies for normalization of HDL and triglyceride levels should be deployed. Most patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) will require combining a lipid-lowering therapy with therapeutic lifestyle changes to achieve optimal lipid levels. Combinations usually include two or more of the following: a statin, nicotinic acid, omega-3 fats and bile acid sequestrants (BASs). Fibrates may also be of use in diabetic patients with persistently elevated triglycerides and depressed HDL-C levels, although their role in lowering adverse CV events is questionable.

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cholesterol, HDL; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Angiopathies; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Male; Risk Reduction Behavior

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Without improvements in prevention, the burden will increase during the next 20 years because of the ageing population, especially in developing countries. Major advances have occurred in secondary prevention during the past three decades, which demonstrate the broader potential to prevent stroke. We review the main medical treatments that should be considered for most patients with transient ischaemic attack or ischaemic stroke in the acute phase and the long term, and draw attention to recent developments.

Topics: Acute Disease; Anticoagulants; Antihypertensive Agents; Atrial Fibrillation; Brain Ischemia; Cardiovascular Agents; Cholesterol, HDL; Cholesterol, LDL; Chronic Disease; Developing Countries; Dyslipidemias; Fibrinolytic Agents; Humans; Hypertension; Hypolipidemic Agents; Ischemic Attack, Transient; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Secondary Prevention; Stroke; Time Factors; Triage

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) have a prevalence between 1.3-8.9% in men and 1.0-2.2% in women aged above 55 years. Furthermore, AAA cause 1-3% of all deaths among men aged 65-85 years in developed countries. As the disorder is invariably associated with severe atherosclerotic damage of the arterial wall, it has traditionally been regarded as a direct consequence of generalized atherosclerotic disease. In patients with occlusive aortic disease, dyslipidemia is a well established risk factor. However, in patients with aneursymatic aortic disease, the association between dyslipidemia and the development of AAA is less clear. Large clinical trials in patients with cardiac and peripheral arterial disease have shown the strong relation between dyslipidemia, statin therapy and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Importantly, the effects of statin therapy were still present irrespective of the decrease in serum cholesterol levels. These findings resulted in the discussion of potential non-lipid lowering effects of statin therapy. These ''pleiotropic effects'' compose a diversity of cellular events which have an effect on several components of the arterial wall, including: 1) endothelial cells; 2) smooth muscle cells; 3) platelets; 4) monocytes/macrophages; and 5) the process of inflammation. In the general population the role of dyslipidemia as an independent risk factor for AAA is debated. However, as patients with AAA frequently have concomitant arterial disease, statin therapy is often recommended. As a result, the non-lipid lowering effects of statins on aneurysm expansion rate are hardly studied, and most evidence comes from experimental and animal studies. In the current review article we provide an overview of all available literature on the effects of dyslipidemia, statin therapy and the risk of AAA expansion and rupture. In the first part we summarize all population-based studies that investigated the relation between hypercholesterolemia and the development of AAA. In the second part, the available literature regarding the effects of statins on aneurysm growth, expansion rate and the risk of rupture is summarized, including in vitro, animal and clinical human studies.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Animals; Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal; Aortic Rupture; Cardiovascular Agents; Disease Models, Animal; Disease Progression; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Male; Middle Aged; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Treatment Outcome

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a worldwide epidemic. Its prevalence is rapidly increasing in both developing and developed countries. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is highly prevalent and is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. The purpose of this review is to assess the clinical impact of recent advances in the epidemiology, prevention, and management of CHD in diabetic patients. A systematic review of publications in this area, referenced in MEDLINE in the past 5 years (2000 to 2005), was undertaken. Patients with CHD and prediabetic states should undergo lifestyle modifications aimed at preventing DM. Pharmacological prevention of DM is also promising but requires further study. In patients with CHD and DM, routine use of aspirin and an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I)--unless contraindicated or not tolerated-and strict glycemic, blood pressure, and lipid control are strongly recommended. The targets for secondary prevention in these patients are relatively well defined, but the strategies to achieve them vary and must be individualized. Intense insulin therapy might be needed for glycemic control, and high-dose statin therapy might be needed for lipid control. For blood pressure control, ACE-Is and angiotensin receptor blockers are considered as first-line therapy. Noncompliance, particularly with lifestyle measures, and underprescription of evidence-based therapies remain important unsolved problems.

Topics: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Aspirin; Cardiovascular Agents; Coronary Disease; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Dyslipidemias; Health Behavior; Humans; Hyperglycemia; Hypertension; Insulin Resistance; Life Style; Metabolic Syndrome; Treatment Refusal

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in women but some of the challenges of management differ from those in men. This article addresses the gender-specific issues of cardiovascular management, with emphasis on ischaemic heart disease and modification of coronary risk factors. Women with ischaemic heart disease present later than men, and are therefore older and more likely to suffer from co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Proven CVD risk factors in women can be divided into those that are modifiable and those that are non-modifiable. The former include diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition; the latter include family history of heart disease and older age at presentation. It is this difference in age and general health that explains much of the variability in response to treatment. Pharmacotherapy, percutaneous intervention, surgical revascularization, and cardiac rehabilitation and disease prevention are discussed.

Topics: Cardiac Catheterization; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Comorbidity; Coronary Artery Bypass; Dyslipidemias; Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Hypertension; Life Style; Obesity; Postmenopause; Primary Prevention; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Smoking; Stress, Psychological; United States; Women's Health

Stroke is an important cause of morbidity and mortality, and is an economic burden. Diabetes and obesity are two important modifiable risk factors for stroke. Patients with diabetes have a higher incidence of stroke and a poorer prognosis after stroke. Risk-factor modification is the most important aspect of prevention of stroke in diabetes and obesity. This includes lifestyle modifications and different therapeutic modalities to control conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia and arrhythmia. Recent landmark studies have shown the beneficial effects of statins in diabetic patients even with close to normal or normal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Obesity, which is a risk factor for diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia has been shown to be an independent risk factor for stroke. Increased leptin, dysregulation of adipocyte proteins, increased insulin resistance and C-reactive protein may be factors involved in the increased incidence of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality directly related to obesity. Visceral fat is a much bigger health risk than subcutaneous fat. Lifestyle interventions and pharmacotherapeutic agents have been used to manage obesity. In morbidly obese patients, surgical intervention seems to be the best method of treatment with a long-lasting favorable metabolic outcome. In the 21st Century, with the advanced medical knowledge and the therapeutic modalities available, it should be possible to reduce the incidence of stroke associated with diabetes and obesity.

Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Aspirin; Atrial Fibrillation; Blood Glucose; Cardiovascular Agents; Carotid Stenosis; Diabetes Mellitus; Diabetic Angiopathies; Diabetic Nephropathies; Diabetic Retinopathy; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hypertension; Insulin Resistance; Ischemic Attack, Transient; Leptin; Life Style; Lipoproteins; Obesity; Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1; Risk Factors; Smoking; Stroke

The First Hungarian Therapeutic Consensus Conference took place on 3rd Nov. 2003 with the participation of 9 medical societies. Over the past 2 years the results of new major studies have been published and the American ATP III has also updated its guidelines issued in 2004. Based on the above proposals, the Second Hungarian Therapeutic Consensus Conference held on 3rd Nov. 2005 partly confirmed its earlier suggestions, but made some changes as well. Within the high risk category the Conference optionally created a very high risk group from those patients who - in addition to their cardiovascular disease--have either diabetes or metabolic syndrome or acut coronaria syndrome or who are chain smokers. We have included - as a complement - into the asymptomatic high risk category such newly emerging risk factors, one of which already in itself means high risk: ankle/arm index < or = 0.9, GFR <60 ml/min, microalbuminuria (30-300 mg), preclinical atherosclerosis (plaque). Besides, 4 other risk factors were also categorised such as Lp/a (> or = 30 mg/dl), CRP (> or = 3mg/l), homocysteine (> or = 12 micromol), familiarity--atherogenic gene constellation, but only the presence of at least two of these verify high risk. In very high risk group the goals of 3.5 mmol/l and 1.8 mmol/l were determined as therapeutic option. The goal in obese patients--expressed earlier only in BMI--can now be equally determined by the abdominal circumference (94 cm for men, 80 cm for women respectively). ACE inhibitors were recommended earlier as a preventive therapy in case of dysfunction of the left ventricle, while at present they are suggested for all patients with cardiovascular disease. In the recent recommendations guidelines related to nutrition, smoking, exercise have also been included.

Topics: Abdominal Fat; Acute Disease; Albuminuria; Atherosclerosis; Body Mass Index; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Consensus Development Conferences as Topic; Coronary Disease; Diabetes Complications; Dyslipidemias; Exercise; Feeding Behavior; Female; Humans; Hungary; Hypertension; Life Style; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Obesity; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Smoking Cessation; Societies, Medical; Therapeutics

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Complications; Dyslipidemias; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Hypertension; Risk Factors; Smoking; Women's Health

Applying fractional flow reserve (FFR) recently helped to assess borderline coronary defects and also facilitates assessment of these lesions. The present study aimed to assess cost-effectiveness of FFR in detection of these borderline lesions.. This cross-sectional study was conducted on140 consecutive patients with 219 diseased arteries who underwent coronary angiography and suffered intermediate coronary lesions.. Of 18 patients who candidate for CABG before FFR, only one patient underwent CABG after determining FFR (P-value<0.05), while 15 patients were scheduled for PCI and 2 patients for medical treatment. Of 122 patients who candidate for PCI, 59 were programmed to underwent PCI after FFR determination(P-value<0.05), while the strategy in 63 patients (47 with one-vessel disease, 15 with two vessel diseases, and 1 with three vessel diseases) was modified to medical treatment. Considering strategy modifying from PCI to medical treatment, 101 stents were saved (P-value<0.05). Also, in change of strategy from CABG to PCI, spending has decreased as much as 77.3% (P-value<0.05). Furthermore, the change of treatment approach from PCI on much number of coronary vessels to PCI on less number of coronary lesions led to saving of 52.2% of costs(P-value<0.05).. In patients with an intermediate coronary lesion, measuring FFR to guide the decision to determine treatment strategy may lead to significant cost savings.

Topics: Adult; Aged, 80 and over; Cardiovascular Agents; Clinical Decision-Making; Coronary Artery Bypass; Coronary Artery Disease; Cost Savings; Cost-Benefit Analysis; Cross-Sectional Studies; Dyslipidemias; Female; Fractional Flow Reserve, Myocardial; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Percutaneous Coronary Intervention; Pilot Projects; Severity of Illness Index; Smoking

In this prospective study, we examined the effect of atorvastatin treatment on baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) in subjects with type 2 diabetes. A total of 79 patients with type 2 diabetes with dyslipidaemia were recruited. A total of 46 subjects were enrolled to atorvastatin 10 mg daily and low-fat diet and 33 patients to low-fat diet only. BRS was assessed non-invasively using the sequence method at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. Treatment with atorvastatin increased BRS after 12 months (from 6.46 ± 2.79 ms/mmHg to 8.05 ± 4.28 ms/mmHg, p = 0.03), while no effect was seen with low-fat diet. Further sub-analysis according to obesity status showed that BRS increased significantly only in the non-obese group (p = 0.036). A low dose of atorvastatin increased BRS in non-obese subjects with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia after 1-year treatment. This finding emphasizes the beneficial effect of atorvastatin on cardiovascular system, beyond the lipid-lowering effects.

Topics: Aged; Atorvastatin; Baroreflex; Body Mass Index; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Combined Modality Therapy; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Angiopathies; Diabetic Cardiomyopathies; Diet, Fat-Restricted; Dyslipidemias; Female; Greece; Heptanoic Acids; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Male; Middle Aged; Myalgia; Obesity; Patient Dropouts; Prospective Studies; Pyrroles; Risk Factors

Patient adherence is necessary for successful medication therapy. However, highly complex medication regimens may lead to poor adherence, which decreases the effectiveness of treatment and often results in treatment failure, excessive morbidity and mortality, and higher costs. . To examine whether patient adherence can be increased indirectly through reducing medication complexity by (a) pharmaceutical counseling of hospital medical staff and (b) additional information in the discharge letter for the primary care provider (PCP) about the simplified discharge medication. . At the Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, a tertiary care university hospital in Germany, 240 chronically ill inpatients with hypertension, diabetes, and/or dyslipidemia were enrolled in this prospective, semirandomized study. For the intervention group, hospital doctors were counseled by a clinical pharmacist on feasible simplifications of cardiovascular and antidiabetic medications. In 1 randomized subgroup, the PCP received additional explanatory information in the discharge letter. Adherence (self-reporting using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale [MARS-D]) and medication complexity (using the Medication Regimen Complexity Index [MRCI-D]) were recorded at admission to the hospital, discharge from the hospital, and 6 weeks after discharge. Patient quality of life (QoL) and satisfaction with information about medications were assessed at admission and after discharge.  . At discharge, the medication regimen in the intervention group was significantly less complex than in the comparison group. Yet, 6 weeks  after discharge, the complexity of the outpatient medication had increased to values similar to the comparison group, unless the PCP received additional information in the discharge letter. Propensity adjusted complete adherence rates at discharge were slightly, but not significantly, higher in the intervention group than in the comparison group. Within the intervention group, complete adherence was more frequent in the subgroup with additional information for the PCP. Patient QoL and satisfaction with information were comparable in both groups.  . The complexity of cardiovascular and antidiabetic hospital medications can be reduced by counseling the hospital doctors. However, for a sustainable simplification of outpatient medication, the PCPs must receive explicit information about the modifications. Patient adherence was not significantly influenced by this intervention. To verify these results, further research with objective measures of adherence and in patients with other diseases is needed. 

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cardiovascular Agents; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Germany; Hospitals, University; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Male; Medical Staff, Hospital; Medication Adherence; Middle Aged; Patient Discharge; Patient Satisfaction; Pharmacists; Pharmacy Service, Hospital; Professional Role; Prospective Studies; Quality of Life; Young Adult

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Risk Factors

The past year was an exciting time for clinical lipidology when we learnt more about existing therapies as well as therapies targeting novel pathways discovered through genetic studies. LDL cholesterol remained the main target and a variety of drugs to lower LDL cholesterol through different mechanisms were explored. Emerging evidence on the atherogenity of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins led to renewed interest in lowering them with new treatments. Lp(a) was back in focus with evidence on causality and new targeted therapeutics which dramatically lower Lp(a) levels. We will be able to personalise lipid lowering therapy further with this enriched armamentarium once we have the results of the cardiovascular outcome studies with some of these new agents.

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cholesterol, LDL; Dyslipidemias; Humans

Ranolazine is approved for patients with chronic stable angina but has not been formally studied in patients with refractory angina pectoris (RAP). Patients with RAP have limited therapeutic options and significant limitations in their quality of life. The Ranolazine Refractory Angina Registry was designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of ranolazine in RAP patients in order to expand treatment options for this challenging patient population. Using an extensive prospective database, we enrolled 158 consecutive patients evaluated in a dedicated RAP clinic. Angina class, medications, major adverse cardiac events including death, myocardial infarction, and revascularization were obtained at 12, 24, and 36 months. At 3 years, 95 (60%) patients remained on ranolazine. A ≥2 class improvement in angina was seen in 48% (38 of 80 patients with known Canadian Cardiovascular Society class) of those who remained on ranolazine. Discontinuation due to side effects, ineffectiveness, cost, and progression of disease were the principle reasons for discontinuation, but primarily occurred within the first year. In conclusion, ranolazine is an effective antianginal therapy at 3-year follow-up in patients with RAP and may reduce cardiac readmission.

Topics: Aged; Angina Pectoris; Cardiovascular Agents; Constipation; Deprescriptions; Diabetes Mellitus; Disease Progression; Dizziness; Drug Costs; Dyslipidemias; Edema; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Medication Adherence; Middle Aged; Mortality; Myocardial Infarction; Myocardial Revascularization; Nausea; Ranolazine; Registries; Smoking; Treatment Failure; Treatment Outcome

Dyslipidemia-induced atherosclerosis, which has a risk of high morbidity and mortality, can be alleviated by metabolic activation associated with mitochondrial function. The effect of dichloroacetate (DCA), a general pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) inhibitor, on in vivo energy expenditure in ApoE

Topics: Adipose Tissue, Brown; AMP-Activated Protein Kinases; Animals; Apolipoproteins E; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Agents; Dichloroacetic Acid; Diet, Western; Dyslipidemias; Energy Metabolism; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fibroblast Growth Factors; Gene Expression Regulation; Iodide Peroxidase; Iodothyronine Deiodinase Type II; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Knockout, ApoE; Mitochondria; Obesity; Oxygen Consumption; Plaque, Atherosclerotic; PPAR alpha; Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Acetyl-Transferring Kinase; RNA, Messenger; Signal Transduction; Uncoupling Protein 1

Objective The current study investigated whether or not patients taking multiple daily oral medications for lifestyle-related chronic diseases would have positive perspectives on changing one of their medications to a once-weekly one. Methods A total of 1,071 Japanese outpatients participated in the current study. We performed a questionnaire-based survey and compared the current satisfaction with the ongoing daily oral treatment (current daily-only treatment) and an expected satisfaction with an imaginary oral treatment changing one of their daily oral medications to a once-weekly oral medication (imaginary daily-and-weekly treatment). Results Medications were taken for diabetes mellitus in 72% of the patients, for dyslipidemia in 54%, and for circulatory diseases, including hypertension, in 73%. Compared to their satisfaction with the current daily-only treatment, an expected satisfaction with the imaginary daily-and-weekly treatment was on average significantly attenuated (p<0.001, effect size d=0.49). The prevalence of a higher satisfaction score for the imaginary daily-and-weekly treatment versus the current daily-only treatment was 30% in the overall population. The prevalence was 59%, 40%, 29%, 14%, and 8% in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th quintile of the satisfaction score with the current daily-only treatment (p<0.001 for trend). Conclusion Treatment satisfaction would be on average attenuated if one of the multiple daily oral medications was changed to a once-weekly one. Improvement in the satisfaction was less expected in the subgroup that was more satisfied with the current daily-only treatment.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Aged; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Chronic Disease; Diabetes Mellitus; Drug Administration Schedule; Drug Therapy, Combination; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Life Style; Male; Medication Adherence; Middle Aged; Outpatients; Patient Satisfaction; Surveys and Questionnaires

Cardiovascular complications, in particular perioperative myocardial infarctions, are central contributors to morbidity and mortality after non-cardiac surgery. We present a case of a 41-year-old male, smoker and dyslipidemic, who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic jaw surgery with the development of an acute coronary syndrome in the immediate postoperative period. We managed to early diagnose the myocardial infarction and promptly performed a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, resulting in a positive outcome.

Topics: Acute Coronary Syndrome; Adult; Anesthesia, General; Angioplasty; Anticoagulants; Atorvastatin; Cardiovascular Agents; Combined Modality Therapy; Disease Susceptibility; Drug-Eluting Stents; Dyslipidemias; Early Diagnosis; Elective Surgical Procedures; Humans; Male; Maxilla; Orthognathic Surgery; Postoperative Complications; Smoking; Surgery, Plastic

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, the change, and the determinants of change in polypharmacy in a population-based sample.. Baseline (2003-2006) and follow-up (2009-2012) data are from 4679 participants aged between 35 and 75 years (53.5% women, mean age 52.6 ± 10.6 years) from the population of Lausanne, Switzerland. Polypharmacy was defined by the regular use of ≥5 drugs. Four categories of change were defined: never (no polypharmacy at baseline and follow-up), initiating (no polypharmacy at baseline but at follow-up), maintaining, or quitting.. Polypharmacy increased from 7.7% at baseline to 15.3% at follow-up. Cardiovascular drugs were the most prescribed medicines at baseline and follow-up. Gender, age, obesity, smoking, previously diagnosed hypertension, or diabetes or dyslipidemia were significantly and independently associated with initiating and maintaining polypharmacy.. In a population-based sample, prevalence of polypharmacy doubled over a 5.6-year period. The main determinants of initiating polypharmacy were age, overweight and obesity, smoking status, and previously diagnosed cardiovascular risk factors.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Analgesics; Cardiovascular Agents; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Life Style; Male; Middle Aged; Overweight; Polypharmacy; Prevalence; Psychotropic Drugs; Risk Factors; Smoking; Switzerland

It has recently been shown that non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) may be a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Based on known ethic differences in lipid parameters and cardiovascular risk prediction, we sought to study the predictability of attaining non-HDL-C target and long-term major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) in Thai patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) compared to attaining LDL-C target.. We retrospectively obtained the data of all patients who were admitted at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai hospital due to AMI during 2006-2013. The mean non-HDL-C and LDL-C during long-term follow-up were used to predict MACE at each time point. The patients were classified as target attainment if non-HDL-C <100 mg/dl and/or LDL-C <70 mg/dl. The MACE was defined as combination of all-cause death, nonfatal coronary event and nonfatal stroke.. During mean follow-up of 2.6 ± 1.6 years among 868 patients after AMI, 34.4% achieved non-HDL-C target, 23.7% achieved LDL-C target and 21.2% experienced MACEs. LDL-C and non-HDL-C were directly compared in Cox regression model. Compared with non-HDL-C <100 mg/dl, patients with non-HDL-C of >130 mg/dl had higher incidence of MACEs (HR 3.15, 95% CI 1.46-6.80, P = 0.003). Surprisingly, LDL-C >100 mg/dl was associated with reduced risk of MACE as compared to LDL <70 mg/dl (HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.18-0.98, p = 0.046) after direct pairwise comparison with non-HDL-C level.. Non-attaining non-HDL-C goal predicted MACE at long-term follow-up after AMI whereas non-attaining LDL-C goal was not associated with the higher risk. Therefore, non-HDL-C may be a more suitable target of dyslipidemia treatment than LDL-C in patients after AMI.

Topics: Aged; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Agents; Chi-Square Distribution; Cholesterol; Cholesterol, LDL; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Incidence; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Non-ST Elevated Myocardial Infarction; Percutaneous Coronary Intervention; Proportional Hazards Models; Retrospective Studies; Risk Factors; Secondary Prevention; ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction; Thailand; Thrombolytic Therapy; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome

Approximately 24-40% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) develop kidney damage. Our objective was to evaluate the long-term evolution of renal function using isotopic determination of GFR and urinary albumin excretion (UAE) in patients with T2DM undergoing intensive treatment for renal and cardiovascular risk factors.. This was a single-center, prospective study of 201 patients with T2DM and UAE who initiated intensive treatment. They were followed for 17.2±6.5 years. Patients were divided into three groups, according to renal function: 167(85.6%) had stable renal function, 16(8.2%) had creatinine levels that doubled and 12(6.2%) began renal replacement therapy (RRT). We performed periodic isotopic determinations of GFR using (125)I-iothalamate.. There were significant differences between the three groups with respect to age, duration of T2DM at baseline, years of follow-up in the study and systolic blood pressure, serum creatinine, isotopic GFR, and UAE at baseline. Renal function evolution slopes were -1.55mL/min/1.73m(2)/year in patients with stable creatinine, -2.49mL/min/1.73m(2)/year in those with doubled creatinine, and -8.16mL/min/1.73m(2)/year in those requiring RRT. We also found that differences in renal events were determined by delayed initiation of intensive treatment.. Patients with glomerular hyperfiltration who were undergoing treatment with renin angiotensin aldosterone system blockers exhibited a better evolution in renal function, possibly because these patients initiated intensive treatment earlier. Although diabetic nephropathy is associated with classic risk factors, early initiation of intensive treatment should be a priority in order to prevent worsening renal function.

Topics: Albuminuria; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Creatinine; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Nephropathies; Dyslipidemias; Early Medical Intervention; Follow-Up Studies; Glomerular Filtration Rate; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Iodine Radioisotopes; Iothalamic Acid; Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists; Prospective Studies; Renal Replacement Therapy; Renin-Angiotensin System; Treatment Outcome

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a medication self-management platform for chronically ill patients, Medplan.. We performed a 6-month single-arm prospective pre-post intervention study of patients receiving treatment for hypertension and/or dyslipidemia and/or heart failure and/or human immunodeficiency virus infection. During the pre-intervention phase, participants were followed according to their usual care; during the intervention phase, they used Medplan. We evaluated adherence, health outcomes, healthcare resources and measured the satisfaction of patients and health care professionals.. The study population comprised 42 patients. No differences were found in adherence to medication measured by proportion of days covered with medication (PDC). However, when adherence was measured using the SMAQ, the percentage of adherent patients improved during the intervention phase (p < 0.05), and the number of days with missed doses decreased (p < 0.05). Adherence measured using the Medplan app showed poor concordance with PDC. No differences were found in health outcomes or in the use of health care resources during the study period. The mean satisfaction score for Medplan was 7.2 ± 2.7 out of 10 among patients and 7.3 ± 1.7 among health care professionals. In fact, 71.4 % of participants said they would recommend the app to a friend, and 88.1 % wanted to continue using it.. The Medplan platform proved to be feasible and was well accepted by its users. However, its impact on adherence differed depending on the assessment method. The lack of effect on PDC is mainly because patients were already good adherers at baseline. The study enabled us to validate the platform in real patients using many different mobile devices and to identify potential barriers to scaling up the platform.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Anti-Retroviral Agents; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Chronic Disease; Dyslipidemias; Female; Heart Failure; HIV Infections; Humans; Hypertension; Internet; Male; Medication Adherence; Middle Aged; Mobile Applications; Patient Satisfaction; Prospective Studies; Self Care; Smartphone

Bariatric surgery can facilitate weight loss and improvement in medical comorbidities. It has a profound impact on nutrition, and patients need access to follow-up and aftercare. NICE CG189 Obesity emphasized the importance of a minimum of 2 years follow-up in the bariatric surgical service and recommended that following discharge from the surgical service, there should be annual monitoring as part of a shared care model of chronic disease management. NHS England Obesity Clinical Reference Group commissioned a multi-professional subgroup, which included patient representatives, to develop bariatric surgery follow-up guidelines. Terms of reference and scope were agreed upon. The group members took responsibility for different sections of the guidelines depending on their areas of expertise and experience. The quality of the evidence was rated and strength graded. Four different shared care models were proposed, taking into account the variation in access to bariatric surgical services and specialist teams across the country. The common features include annual review, ability for a GP to refer back to specialist centre, submission of follow-up data to the national data base to NBSR. Clinical commissioning groups need to ensure that a shared care model is implemented as patient safety and long-term follow-up are important.

Topics: Aftercare; Bariatric Surgery; Bone Density; Cardiovascular Agents; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Male; Mental Health; Obesity, Morbid; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Pregnancy; Vitamin D

While heart rate reduction (HRR) is a target for the management of patients with heart disease, contradictory results were reported using ivabradine, which selectively inhibits the pacemaker I

Topics: Adrenergic beta-1 Receptor Antagonists; Animals; Benzazepines; Bradycardia; Cardiovascular Agents; Disease Models, Animal; Dyslipidemias; Echocardiography; Energy Metabolism; Female; Glucose; Glycolysis; Heart; Heart Rate; Hemodynamics; Ivabradine; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Metoprolol; Mice; Myocardium; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Stroke Volume; Telemetry; Transcriptome

Recent trends in the clinical characteristics, management and prognosis of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) remain to be examined in Japan.. We compared 306 and 710 DCM patients in the Chronic Heart Failure Analysis and Registry in the Tohoku District (CHART)-1 (2000-2005, n=1,278) and the CHART-2 (2006-present, n=10,219) Studies, respectively. Between the 2 groups of DCM patients, there were no significant differences in baseline characteristics. The prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus were all significantly increased from the CHART-1 to the CHART-2 Study. The use of β-blockers and aldosterone antagonists was significantly increased, while that of loop diuretics and digitalis was significantly decreased in the CHART-2 Study. The 3-year mortality rate was significantly improved from 14% in the CHART-1 to 9% in the CHART-2 Study (adjusted HR, 0.60; 95% CI: 0.49-0.81; P=0.001). In particular, 3-year incidence of cardiovascular death was significantly decreased (adjusted HR, 0.26; 95% CI: 0.14-0.50, P<0.001), while that of HF admission was not (adjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.59-1.37, P=0.632). The prognostic improvement was noted in patients with BNP <220 pg/ml, LVEF>40%, β-blocker use and aldosterone antagonist use.. Long-term prognosis of DCM patients has been improved, along with the implementation of evidence-based medication in Japan.

Topics: Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Aged; Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Cardiomyopathy, Dilated; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cause of Death; Comorbidity; Diabetes Mellitus; Drug Utilization; Dyslipidemias; Evidence-Based Medicine; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hypertension; Incidence; Japan; Life Style; Male; Middle Aged; Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists; Prognosis; Proportional Hazards Models; Prospective Studies; Registries; Sodium Potassium Chloride Symporter Inhibitors; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; China; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Motor Activity; Nutritional Status; Overweight; Prevalence; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic; Risk Factors; Smoking; Time Factors

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important global health problem, involving to 10% of the Spanish population, promoting high morbidity and mortality for the patient and an elevate consumption of the total health resources for the National Health System. This is a summary of an executive consensus document of ten scientific societies involved in the care of the renal patient, that actualizes the consensus document published in 2007. The central extended document can be consulted in the web page of each society. The aspects included in the document are: Concept, epidemiology and risk factors for CKD. Diagnostic criteria, evaluation and stages of CKD, albuminuria and glomerular filtration rate estimation. Progression factors for renal damage. Patient remission criteria. Follow-up and objectives of each speciality control. Nephrotoxicity prevention. Cardio-vascular damage detection. Diet, life-style and treatment attitudes: hypertension, dyslipidaemia, hyperglycemia, smoking, obesity, hyperuricemia, anemia, mineral and bone disorders. Multidisciplinary management for Primary Care, other specialities and Nephrology. Integrated management of CKD patient in haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and renal transplant patients. Management of the uremic patient in palliative care. We hope that this document may be of help for the multidisciplinary management of CKD patients by summarizing the most updated recommendations.

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Combined Modality Therapy; Comorbidity; Diabetic Nephropathies; Diet; Disease Progression; Dyslipidemias; Health Behavior; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Interdisciplinary Communication; Kidney Function Tests; Kidney Transplantation; Obesity; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic; Renal Replacement Therapy; Severity of Illness Index; Terminal Care

Topics: Alcohol Drinking; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Coronary Disease; Diabetes Complications; Drug Combinations; Dyslipidemias; Female; History, 20th Century; History, 21st Century; Humans; Hypertension; Medication Adherence; Menopause; Metabolic Syndrome; Obesity; Risk Factors; Sedentary Behavior; Smoking; Women's Health

To demonstrate the utilization of a clinical improvement program in stable coronary artery disease patients to increase the evidence-proven treatment utilization, and to describe the ongoing clinical practice and lifestyle change counseling.. Cross-sectional study followed by a longitudinal component in which the tools utilization to improve clinical practice was assessed by means of additional cross-sectional data collection. 710 consecutive patients were included (Phase 1). After tools implementation, within 6 months period, 705 patients were included (Phase 2) for comparative analysis. Randomly, 318 patients from Phase 1 were selected, 6-12 months after the first evaluation (Phase 3).. Phase 1 to Phase 2: there were improvement on smoking cessation (P=0.019), dyslipidemia (P<0.001), hypertension and physical activity (P<0.001). There was significant difference on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors - ACEI (67.2% vs. 56.8%, P<0.001); angiotensin II receptor blockers - ARB II (25.4% vs. 32.9%, P=0.002) and beta-blocker (88.7% vs. 91.9%, P=0.047). Phase 1 to Phase 3: there was both weight (P=0.044), and blood pressure reduction (P<0.001). There was statistical significant difference on ACEI (64.8% vs. 61.6%, P=0.011) and ARB II (27.0% vs. 31.3%, P=0.035).. There was no significant change on the evidence-based pharmacological treatment utilization between pre and post-intervention phases; there was significant improvement concerning smoking and physical activity in phase 2; substantial improvement on blood pressure levels in both comparisons (Phase 1 to 2 and Phase 1 to 3). The inclusion of a case-manager for the process management was crucial for program efficacy. Comprehensive programs for clinical practice should be pursued for longer follow-up period.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cardiovascular Agents; Coronary Disease; Cross-Sectional Studies; Dyslipidemias; Female; Guideline Adherence; Humans; Hypertension; Life Style; Male; Middle Aged; Reproducibility of Results; Risk Factors; Secondary Prevention; Smoking Cessation; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Aged; Cardiovascular Agents; Comorbidity; Diabetic Foot; Diabetic Nephropathies; Disease Management; Dyslipidemias; Female; Glycated Hemoglobin; Guideline Adherence; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Insulin; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Male; Middle Aged; Patient Compliance; Retrospective Studies; Secondary Prevention; Smoking

The efficacy of out-patient cardiac rehabilitation (OPCR) in patients with a low prognostic risk after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unclear in the recent primary intervention era.. A total of 637 AMI patients who participated in in-hospital cardiac rehabilitation were divided into 2 groups; low prognostic risk group (n=219; age <65 years, successful reperfusion, Killip class I, peak serum creatine kinase <6,000U/L, and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40%) and non-low prognostic risk group (n=418). The prevalence of coronary risk factors (CRF) was compared between the 2 groups. Then, in the low-risk group, the efficacy of OPCR was compared between active OPCR participants (n=52; ≥20 sessions/3 months) and non-active participants (n=60; <6 sessions/3 months). Compared with the non-low prognostic risk group, the low prognostic risk group had a significantly higher prevalence of current smokers (72% vs. 49%, P<0.05) and patients with multiple CRF (3 or more; 49% vs. 39%, P<0.05). Among the low- risk group, active OPCR participants showed a significantly greater improvement in exercise capacity (peak VO(2), P<0.05) and maintained a better CRF profile (total cholesterol, triglyceride and blood pressure, all P<0.05) than inactive participants at 3 months.. Low prognostic risk AMI patients have a higher prevalence of multiple CRF than non-low risk patients. Even in this low risk group, active participation in OPCR is associated with improved exercise capacity and better CRF profile.

Topics: Ambulatory Care; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Agents; Comorbidity; Creatine Kinase; Dyslipidemias; Exercise Test; Exercise Tolerance; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Myocardial Infarction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Obesity; Prognosis; Retrospective Studies; Risk; Smoking; Stroke Volume; Treatment Outcome

Cigarette smoking, raised blood pressure, unfavourable lipid concentrations, diabetes and - more indirectly - obesity, are responsible for most coronary heart disease events in developed and developing countries.. The objective of our study was to compare prevalence, treatment and control of cardiovascular risk factors in two samples of men with stable coronary heart disease, recruited in France and Spain.. Standardized measurements of body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, plasma lipids, glycaemia, and smoking were collected and drug use was registered. Cross-sectional comparisons were made between French and Spanish samples.. Data from 982 individuals were analysed (420 French and 562 Spanish men). Current smoking was more frequent in Spain (p<0.001), whereas hypertension and uncontrolled blood pressure were more frequent in France (p<0.001). Mean concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly higher in France (p<0.001). No significant differences were observed regarding obesity, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and diabetes. More than 97% of participants presented with at least one of the following conditions: hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, obesity or smoking. Antiplatelet agents, calcium inhibitors, diuretics and hypoglycaemic drugs were used more frequently in France, whereas angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and lipid-lowering treatments were used more frequently in Spain.. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors is high among French and Spanish patients with stable coronary heart disease, with differences between countries regarding the distribution of the various risk factors. A great proportion of patients do not reach the recommended levels for risk factor control.

Topics: Aged; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Chi-Square Distribution; Coronary Disease; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; France; Health Status Disparities; Healthcare Disparities; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prevalence; Registries; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Smoking; Spain; Time Factors

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death across the world and poses a significant economic burden. Research regarding per-person use and cost of cardiovascular pharmaceuticals in Australia, as well as potential predictors of pharmaceutical costs in populations using the 'bottom up' costing approach, is limited. Previous studies have adopted 'top down' costing approaches and have been based largely on hypothetical examples and considered only inpatient settings.. To determine the distribution of pharmaceutical costs (from a governmental perspective) related to each cardiovascular risk factor for individuals with, or at high risk of, CVD by analysing data for Australian participants enrolled in the Reduction of Atherothrombosis for Continued Health (REACH) Registry.. 2873 participants were recruited for the REACH Registry through 273 general (primary care) practices in Australia. Included among data collected at baseline was a cardiovascular medicines review. Average weighted costs per person were estimated using Government-reimbursed prices (2007). Annual costs were stratified by sex, age, disease group and other co-morbidities. A multivariate linear regression model was utilized to reveal the predictors of the pharmaceutical costs.. The average annual median cost of cardiovascular pharmaceuticals per person was Australian dollars ($A)1310. Use of lipid-lowering agents, non-aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) antiplatelet agents and thiazolidinediones (glitazones) added significantly to the average annual per-person costs. The multivariate regression model showed that the predictors of annual pharmaceutical costs were dyslipidemia (beta coefficient value [marginal annual cost associated with a condition] $A691; p < 0.001), hypertension ($A346; p < 0.001), vascular disease ($A340; p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus ($A298; p < 0.001), and obesity ($A52; p = 0.03). The same predictors, together with sex, were shown to have an impact on the number of medicines used.. Among community-based Australians with, or at risk of, CVD, independent drivers of annual cardiovascular pharmaceutical costs are dyslipidemia (which accounts for half of per-person costs), followed by hypertension, established CVD, and diabetes. Obesity also independently adds to the cost of cardiovascular pharmaceuticals in community-based Australians with, or at risk of, CVD.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Australia; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hypolipidemic Agents; Linear Models; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Obesity; Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; Primary Health Care; Registries; Risk Factors; Thiazolidinediones

To assess the impact of chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) on in-hospital major adverse cardiac events across the acute coronary syndrome (ACS) spectrum.. From January 29, 2007, through July 29, 2007, 6 adjacent Middle Eastern countries participated in the Gulf Registry of Acute Coronary Events, a prospective, observational registry of 8176 patients. Patients were categorized according to estimated glomerular filtration rate into 4 groups: normal (>or=90 mL/min), mild (60-89 mL/min), moderate (30-59 mL/min), and severe CRI (<30 mL/min). Patients' characteristics and in-hospital major adverse cardiac events in the 4 groups were analyzed.. Of 6518 consecutive patients with ACS, 2828 (43%) had mild CRI, 1304 (20%) had moderate CRI, and 345 (5%) had severe CRI. In CRI groups, patients were older and had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. On admission, these patients had a higher resting heart rate and frequently had atypical and delayed presentations. Compared with the normal estimated glomerular filtration group, CRI groups were less likely to receive antiplatelet drugs, beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and statins and were less likely to undergo coronary angiography. In-hospital heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and major bleeding episodes were significantly higher in all CRI groups. In multivariate analysis, mild, moderate, and severe CRI were associated with a higher adjusted odds ratio (OR) of death (mild: OR, 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-3.7; moderate: OR, 6.7; 95% CI, 3.9-11.5; and severe: OR, 12.0; 95% CI, 6.6-21.7).. Across the ACS spectrum, patients with CRI had a worse risk profile, had more atypical and delayed presentations, and were less likely to receive evidence-based therapy. Chronic renal insufficiency of varying stages is an independent predictor of in-hospital morbidity and mortality.

Topics: Acute Coronary Syndrome; Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Adult; Aged; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Cardiovascular Agents; Chi-Square Distribution; Comorbidity; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Female; Glomerular Filtration Rate; Humans; Hypertension; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Length of Stay; Male; Middle Aged; Middle East; Outcome Assessment, Health Care; Patient Admission; Registries; Risk Factors; Severity of Illness Index; Survival Analysis; Treatment Outcome

Atherosclerosis begins in childhood with fatty streaks, which progress seamlessly to fibrous plaques in adulthood. These plaques, in turn, might rupture and cause thrombotic arterial occlusion and ischemic damage to vital organs. The earliest stages and progression of atherosclerosis in youth are influenced by the same major established risk factors for this condition in adults-dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Controlling these risk factors at any age is beneficial, but the earlier primary prevention begins, the better the result. As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, pediatricians should support both control and prevention of these risk factors in children via lifestyle modification. Drug treatment can be used to supplement lifestyle modification in the few cases of children with genetic dyslipidemias who do not respond to diet changes. Ultimately, however, effective prevention of adult disease requires a massive cultural change.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Atherosclerosis; Cardiology; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Complications; Disease Progression; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hypertension; Pediatrics; Physician's Role; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Primary Prevention; Risk Factors; Risk Reduction Behavior; Smoking; Societies, Medical; United States; Young Adult

Limited contemporary data exist on the cardiovascular risk of patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG) requiring diagnostic coronary angiography. We examined the prevalence and control of coronary artery disease risk factors and the outcomes of 367 prior CABG patients who underwent diagnostic coronary angiography between October 1, 2004 and May 31, 2007 at the Dallas Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Mean age was 65 +/- 9 years, 97% were men, and the mean time from CABG to diagnostic angiography was 8.2 +/- 6.1 years. Hypertension, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and obesity were suboptimally controlled in 70%, 59%, 47%, 33%, and 50%, respectively. Intake of statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers was 88% and 81%, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 1.4 +/- 0.8 years, the incidence of death and major cardiovascular events was 10% and 32%, respectively. In spite of significant improvement compared to previous studies and good compliance with indicated medications, contemporary prior CABG patients undergoing coronary angiography still have multiple and poorly controlled coronary artery disease risk factors and high risk for cardiovascular events. Novel pharmacologic and behavioral treatment strategies are needed.

Topics: Aged; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Coronary Angiography; Coronary Artery Bypass; Coronary Artery Disease; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Incidence; Kaplan-Meier Estimate; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prevalence; Proportional Hazards Models; Retrospective Studies; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Smoking; Texas; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Veterans

Topics: Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Coronary Disease; Dyslipidemias; Europe; Guidelines as Topic; Humans; Life Style; Risk Factors

Topics: Attitude of Health Personnel; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Complications; Diet; Dyslipidemias; Exercise; Guideline Adherence; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Health Policy; Health Promotion; Humans; Hypertension; Life Style; Metabolic Syndrome; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Preventive Health Services; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Risk Reduction Behavior; Smoking; Smoking Cessation

Heartwatch, a secondary prevention programme in primary care was initiated in 2003, based on the second European Joint Task Force recommendations for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim was to examine the effect of the first 2 years of the Heartwatch programme on cardiovascular risk factors and treatments.. Prospective cohort study of patients with established CHD enrolled into the Heartwatch programme.. Four hundred and seventy (20%) general practitioners nationwide participated in the programme, recruiting 11,542 patients with established CHD (earlier myocardial infarction, coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass surgery). Clinical data were electronically transferred by each general practitioner to a central database. Comparison of changes in risk factors and treatments at 1-year and 2-year follow-up from baseline were made using paired t-test for continuous and McNemar's test for categorical data.. Statistically significant changes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total and low-density lipoprotien cholesterol and smoking status at 1 and 2 years (P <0.0001) were observed. Little or no improvements were shown for exercise, BMI or waist circumference. Increases in the prescribing of statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-blockers over the course of the study were observed.. The Heartwatch programme has demonstrated significant improvements in the main risk factors and treatments for CHD. More effective interventions are required to reduce BMI, waist circumference and physical inactivity in this population. The increases in treatment uptake are approaching the optimal levels in this population.

Topics: Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Aged; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Antihypertensive Agents; Cardiovascular Agents; Coronary Disease; Databases as Topic; Diabetes Complications; Dyslipidemias; Female; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Ireland; Male; Medical Records Systems, Computerized; Middle Aged; Obesity; Primary Health Care; Program Evaluation; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Secondary Prevention; Smoking; Smoking Cessation; Smoking Prevention; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Blood Pressure; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Europe; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Guideline Adherence; Health Promotion; Heart Rate; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Inflammation; Kidney Diseases; Life Style; Lipids; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Motor Activity; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Overweight; Primary Prevention; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Smoking; Smoking Cessation; Stress, Psychological; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Blood Pressure; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Guideline Adherence; Health Promotion; Heart Rate; Humans; Hypertension; Hypoglycemic Agents; Hypolipidemic Agents; Inflammation; Kidney Diseases; Life Style; Lipids; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Motor Activity; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Overweight; Primary Prevention; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Smoking; Smoking Cessation; Stress, Psychological; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Agents; Coronary Artery Disease; Diabetes Mellitus; Dyslipidemias; Health Behavior; Hematologic Agents; Humans; Hypertension; Hypolipidemic Agents; Influenza Vaccines; Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists; Motor Activity; Obesity; Smoking Cessation

Topics: Biomedical Research; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Obesity