Influence of metabolic syndrome and race on the relationship between intensive blood pressure control and cardiovascular outcomes in the SPRINT cohort

SPRINT Revisited: Updated Results and Implications

The SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial) results have influenced clinical practice but have also generated discussion regarding the validity, generalizability, and importance of the findings. Following the SPRINT primary results manuscript in 2015, additional results and analyses of the data have addressed these concerns. The primary objective of this article is to respond to key questions that have been raised.

Primary Prevention of ASCVD and T2DM in Patients at Metabolic Risk: An Endocrine Society* Clinical Practice Guideline

OBJECTIVE

To develop clinical practice guidelines for the primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in individuals at metabolic risk for developing these conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care providers should incorporate regular screening and identification of individuals at metabolic risk (at higher risk for ASCVD and T2DM) with measurement of blood pressure, waist circumference, fasting lipid profile, and blood glucose. Individuals identified at metabolic risk should undergo 10-year global risk assessment for ASCVD or coronary heart disease to determine targets of therapy for reduction of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. Hypertension should be treated to targets outlined in this guideline. Individuals with prediabetes should be tested at least annually for progression to diabetes and referred to intensive diet and physical activity behavioral counseling programs. For the primary prevention of ASCVD and T2DM, the Writing Committee recommends lifestyle management be the first priority. Behavioral programs should include a heart-healthy dietary pattern and sodium restriction, as well as an active lifestyle with daily walking, limited sedentary time, and a structured program of physical activity, if appropriate. Individuals with excess weight should aim for loss of ≥5% of initial body weight in the first year. Behavior changes should be supported by a comprehensive program led by trained interventionists and reinforced by primary care providers. Pharmacological and medical therapy can be used in addition to lifestyle modification when recommended goals are not achieved.

[New Targets in Blood Pressure Control: Arguments Pro and Contra]

The review contains results of analysis of clinical studies on the problem of defining the target level of the blood pressure (BP). The rationale for selection the target systolic BP level below120 mmHg was obtained in the SPRINT study comparing the target levels <120 mmHg and <140 mmHg. A considerably lower number of cardiovascular complications and deaths was seen in the group of a stricter BP control. Nevertheless, this study had some limitations related to certain patient populations, and methods of BP measurement. More ambitious target of BP lowering was associated with elevated risk of iatrogenic hypotension and fainting. Moreover, the ACCORD study, exploring the same target levels failed to demonstrate similar risk reduction. Taking into account various literature data, the authors find it reasonable to use personalized approach to determining BP targets, and utilize assessment of central aortic pressure and state of vessels for more accurate risk stratification and selection of treatment.