Trends in the prevalence of low risk factor burden for cardiovascular disease among United States adults

Association between anti-mullerian hormone and metabolic syndrome: insights from a prospective community-based study

BACKGROUND

Limited studies have investigated the relationship between Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), yielding inconclusive results. This study aimed to examine the relationship between AMH levels and MetS and its components in women from a general population.

METHODS

This prospective study recruited 769 women. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) models analyzed longitudinal trends of MetS components. Cox proportional hazard models evaluated effect of age-specific AMH tertiles on MetS occurrence, adjusting for confounders.

RESULTS

The GEE analysis indicated that women in the third tertile exhibited higher mean FPG compared to those in the first tertile of age-specific AMH (3 mg/dL; 95% CI: 0.40, 5.60; P = 0.024); however, this association became non-significant after adjustment. Notably, the second tertile showed a significant decrease in FPG mean changes over time (-0.69 mg/dL; 95% CI: -1.31, -0.07; P Interaction = 0.030). Women in the second and third tertiles of age-specific AMH demonstrated lower mean HDL-C compared to the first tertile (-2.96 mg/dL; 95% CI: -4.67, -1.26; P < 0.001 and -2.63 mg/dL; 95% CI: -4.31, -0.96; P = 0.002, respectively). The association between HDL-C changes and the second tertile remained significant after adjustment (-1.91 mg/dL; 95% CI: -3.68, -0.14; P = 0.034). No significant associations were observed between age-specific AMH tertiles and TG and SBP/DBP. Cox models revealed no significant differences in the hazard ratio of MetS between AMH tertiles after adjusting for confounders.

CONCLUSION

Despite minor variations in MetS components, AMH levels did not affect MetS risk in women from a general population.

Biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk in the neonatal population

The consistently high prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has urged the need for punctual and effective prevention. Extended research on this specific area has demonstrated the influence of fetal and neonatal periods on the risk of developing CVD in adulthood. Thus, the role of traditional and novel biological markers to the effective screening of CVD among the neonatal population is widely investigated. The objective of the present narrative review is to examine those neonatal biomarkers that may play a role in the development of CVD, to exhibit scientific data that appertain to their association with various perinatal conditions leading to CVD predisposition, and their potential role on prediction and prevention strategies. Multiple biomarkers, traditional and novel, have been mined across the studied literature. Adiposity, insulin resistance, altered lipid profile, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction seem among the headliners of CVD. Even though various novel molecules have been studied, their clinical utility remains controversial. Therefore, it is quite important for the scientific community to find elements with strong predictive value and practical clinical use.

The Impact of Melatonin Supplementation and NLRP3 Inflammasome Deletion on Age-Accompanied Cardiac Damage

To investigate the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiac aging, we evaluate here morphological and ultrastructural age-related changes of cardiac muscles fibers in wild-type and NLRP3-knockout mice, as well as studying the beneficial effect of melatonin therapy. The results clarified the beginning of the cardiac sarcopenia at the age of 12 months, with hypertrophy of cardiac myocytes, increased expression of β-MHC, appearance of small necrotic fibers, decline of cadiomyocyte number, destruction of mitochondrial cristae, appearance of small-sized residual bodies, and increased apoptotic nuclei ratio. These changes were progressed in the cardiac myocytes of 24 old mice, accompanied by excessive collagen deposition, higher expressions of IL-1α, IL-6, and TNFα, complete mitochondrial vacuolation and damage, myofibrils disorganization, multivesicular bodies formation, and nuclear fragmentation. Interestingly, cardiac myocytes of NLRP3^-/- mice showed less detectable age-related changes compared with WT mice. Oral melatonin therapy preserved the normal cardiomyocytes structure, restored cardiomyocytes number, and reduced β-MHC expression of cardiac hypertrophy. In addition, melatonin recovered mitochondrial architecture, reduced apoptosis and multivesicular bodies' formation, and decreased expressions of β-MHC, IL-1α, and IL-6. Fewer cardiac sarcopenic changes and highly remarkable protective effects of melatonin treatment detected in aged cardiomyocytes of NLRP3^-/- mice compared with aged WT animals, confirming implication of the NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiac aging. Thus, NLRP3 suppression and melatonin therapy may be therapeutic approaches for age-related cardiac sarcopenia.

Refocusing on the Primary Prevention of Heart Failure

Purpose of review

The burden of heart failure (HF) is a significant national and global public health problem, with prevalence rates on the rise. Given the significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs attributable to HF, it is of utmost importance to utilize preventive strategies to prevent the development of HF. Therefore, we sought to address how a multi-modal risk assessment approach can be used to stratify patients for HF risk and guide implementation of therapeutic strategies to prevent HF.

Recent findings

New externally validated, multivariate prediction models for incident HF can be applied in the general population and may be used to aide clinicians in assessing individualized HF risk and screening for HF. Recent clinical trial data suggest a natriuretic peptide biomarker-based screening approach coupled with team-based cardiovascular care to focus on optimization of guideline-directed medical therapy may help prevent new-onset HF. However, widespread implementation of clinical risk scores and/or biomarkers is needed.

Summary

In addition to promoting a heart healthy lifestyle, prevention and management of modifiable risk factors, including intensive blood pressure lowering and use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, can prevent incident HF.

The association between the socioeconomic status and systemic comorbidities in patients with oral cancers: a retrospective study in Guangxi Province

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether and how the prevalence of systemic comorbidities in oral cancer patients would change with socioeconomic development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of association between socioeconomy and prevalence of systemic comorbidities in oral cancer patients from 2003 to 2017 was performed in Guangxi Province, a southwestern part of China. According to the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) classification, 2814 patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the lip, oral cavity, and oropharynx and 423 patients with ameloblastoma were collected and assigned to the oral cancer group and control group, respectively. Then, comparisons between the socioeconomy and healthcare expenditure in Guangxi Province, the whole China, and the USA were carried out.

RESULTS

The prevalence of systemic comorbidities in oral cancer patients increased from 0.820% in 2003 to 32.302% in 2017, which was significantly higher than that in non-cancer patients(P < 0.001) and was positively correlated with the increase in gross regional product (GRP) (r = 0.911, P < 0.001) and per capita GRP (r = 0.910, P < 0.001) of Guangxi Province. In addition, the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases has the largest correlation coefficient with GRP(r = 0.957, P < 0.001) and per capita GRP(r = 0.959, P < 0.001). And the prevalence of endocrine diseases increased by 13.402% and exhibited the most significant increase in 15 years. The per capita health care expenditure of Guangxi Province and whole China was nearly equal (P = 0.353). Although the health care expenditure of Guangxi Province had been increasing year by year, its proportion in GRP remains far below that of the USA.

CONCLUSIONS

With socioeconomic growth, oral cancer patients in Guangxi Province are more common to comorbid with systemic diseases. Cardiovascular and endocrine diseases may be the most susceptible systemic comorbidities in oral cancer patients to the socioeconomic status. In order to control the prevalence of systemic diseases, the government of Guangxi Province may need to expend more budgets in the health care.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Clinicians need to pay more attention to the detection of systemic comorbidities and the concept of multidisciplinary collaboration. Instructing oral cancer patients to treat and control systemic comorbidities is also an indispensable part in the treatment of oral cancer.

Clinical, Demographic, and Biochemical Characteristics of Patients with Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: An Analysis of Acute Coronary Syndrome Registry Data of a Single Medical Center from 2005 to 2016

Background

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Therefore, understanding the prevalence and trends of major risk factors may facilitate primary and secondary prevention of STEMI.

Methods

In the present study, 2446 consecutive patients with STEMI admitted to Far Eastern Memorial Hospital from 2005 to 2016 were enrolled. A comprehensive analysis of the prevalence, distribution, and trends over time of major risk factors as well as Framingham risk scores of all patients was performed.

Results

The most prevalent risk factors were male sex, hypertension (HTN), smoking, age, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, 95%-97% of the patients had at least one modifiable risk factor, and < 1% of the patients did not have any identifiable risk factors. The prevalence trends of smoking, HTN, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome increased significantly from 2005 to 2016. Seasonal variation analysis revealed a 15% increase in STEMI cases between January and March compared with those between April and December. Isolated low high- density lipoprotein-cholesterol syndrome was the second most common type of dyslipidemia, with a prevalence rate of 16.6%. Moreover, only 56.8% of the male and 32% of the female patients were in the Framingham high-risk group.

Conclusions

A high prevalence rate and an increasing trend of modifiable risk factors resulted in a high number of STEMI cases at our hospital. Controlling modifiable risk factors and improving nontraditional risk factor detection could facilitate primary and secondary preventions for STEMI.

NLRP3 inflammasome suppression improves longevity and prevents cardiac aging in male mice

While NLRP3‐inflammasome has been implicated in cardiovascular diseases, its role in physiological cardiac aging is largely unknown. During aging, many alterations occur in the organism, which are associated with progressive impairment of metabolic pathways related to insulin resistance, autophagy dysfunction, and inflammation. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms through which NLRP3 inhibition may attenuate cardiac aging. Ablation of NLRP3‐inflammasome protected mice from age‐related increased insulin sensitivity, reduced IGF‐1 and leptin/adiponectin ratio levels, and reduced cardiac damage with protection of the prolongation of the age‐dependent PR interval, which is associated with atrial fibrillation by cardiovascular aging and reduced telomere shortening. Furthermore, old NLRP3 KO mice showed an inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and autophagy improvement, compared with old wild mice and preserved Nampt‐mediated NAD⁺ levels with increased SIRT1 protein expression. These findings suggest that suppression of NLRP3 prevented many age‐associated changes in the heart, preserved cardiac function of aged mice and increased lifespan.

Inter-Individual Variability in Metabolic Syndrome Severity Score and VO2max Changes Following Personalized, Community-Based Exercise Programming

This study sought to examine the effectiveness of a personalized, community-based exercise program at reducing MetS severity and consequently Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. One-hundred and fifty physically inactive participants (aged 18-83 years) were randomized to a non-exercise control group (n = 75; instructed to continue their usual lifestyle habits) or treatment group (n = 75). Participants randomized to the treatment group completed a 12 week personalized exercise training program based on the American Council on Exercise (ACE) Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) model guidelines. Z-scores were derived from levels of metabolic syndrome risk factors to determine the severity of MetS (MetS z-score). After 12 weeks, the treatment group showed a significant favorable change in MetS z-score, whereas the control group demonstrated increased severity of the syndrome (between-group difference, p < 0.05). The proportion of MetS z-score responders (Δ > -0.48) was greater following the exercise intervention (71%, 50/70) compared to control (10%, 7/72) (between group difference, p < 0.001). The inter-individual variability in VO₂max change also showed a similar trend. These findings provide critical translational evidence demonstrating that personalized exercise programming based upon the ACE IFT model guidelines can be successfully implemented within the community setting to reduce T2DM and CVD risk.

Veteran peer Coaches Optimizing and Advancing Cardiac Health (Vet-COACH); design and rationale for a randomized controlled trial of peer support among Veterans with poorly controlled hypertension and other CVD risks

BACKGROUND

Peer support can improve health for patients with chronic conditions; however, evidence for disease prevention is less clear and peer recruitment strategies are not well described. This paper describes a study protocol to evaluate a peer support intervention to improve hypertension control and reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

METHODS & RESEARCH DESIGN

Target enrollment for this two-site study is n = 400. Eligibility criteria include Veterans enrolled in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) primary care with poorly controlled hypertension and one other cardiovascular disease risk (smoking, overweight/obesity, or hyperlipidemia) who live in census tracts with high rates of hypertension. Enrolled participants are randomized to a home-based peer delivered self-management intervention (5 home visits and 5 phone calls with a peer health coach) versus usual care. The primary outcome is a change in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and secondary outcomes include change in CVD risk and health care use.

RESULTS

Trial results are pending and participant enrollment is ongoing. We recruited peer coaches from Veterans who lived in census tracks with the highest rates of hypertension. To recruit Veteran peer coaches, we asked primary care providers (n = 41) and team nurses (n = 35) to nominate patients who they thought would be a good fit for the peer coach position (based on successful self-management and health care navigation) (n = 73 nominated from 964 patients). We interviewed 12 Veterans and trained 5 peer coaches.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this trial will inform peer support programs targeted to provide community-based delivery of prevention services to patients in high-risk areas.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrial.gov identifier NCT02697422 TRIAL STATUS: Enrollment for the randomized trial phase began in September 2017 and will be complete September 2019.

Low prevalence of ideal cardiovascular health in Peru

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of and factors associated with ideal cardiovascular health (ICH) by sociodemographic characteristics in Peru is not well known.

METHODS

The American Heart Association's ICH score comprised 3 ideal health factors (blood pressure, untreated total cholesterol and glucose) and 4 ideal health behaviours (smoking, body mass index, high physical activity and fruit and vegetable consumption). ICH was having 5 to 7 of the ideal health metrics. Baseline data from the Center of Excellence in Chronic Diseases, a prospective cohort study in adults aged ≥35 years in 4 Peruvian settings, was used (n=3058).

RESULTS

No one met all 7 of ICH metrics while 322 (10.5%) had ≤1 metric. Fasting plasma glucose was the most prevalent health factor (72%). Overall, compared with ages 35-44 years, the 55-64 years age group was associated with a lower prevalence of ICH (prevalence ratio 0.54, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.74, P<0.001). Compared with those in the lowest tertile of socioeconomic status, those in the middle and highest tertiles were less likely to have ICH after adjusting for sex, age and education (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

There is a low prevalence of ICH. This is a benchmark for the prevalence of ICH factors and behaviours in a resource-poor setting.

Ideal Cardiovascular Health Metrics in Couples: A Community-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Determination of the correlation of ideal cardiovascular health variables among spousal or cohabitating partners may guide the development of couple-based interventions to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

METHOD AND RESULTS

We used data from the HeartSCORE (Heart Strategies Concentrating on Risk Evaluation) study. Ideal cardiovascular health, defined by the American Heart Association, comprises nonsmoking, body mass index <25 kg/m2, physical activity at goal, diet consistent with guidelines, untreated total cholesterol <200 mg/dL, untreated blood pressure <120/80 mm Hg, and untreated fasting glucose <100 mg/dL. McNemar test and logistic regression were used to assess concordance patterns in these variables among partners (ie, concordance in achieving ideal factor status, concordance in not achieving ideal factor status, or discordance-only one partner achieving ideal factor status). Overall, there was a low prevalence of ideal cardiovascular health among the 231 couples studied (median age 61 years, 78% white). The highest concordances in achieving ideal factor status were for nonsmoking (26.1%), ideal fruit and vegetable consumption (23.9%), and ideal fasting blood glucose (35.6%). The strongest odds of intracouple concordance were for smoking (odds ratio, 3.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-6.5), fruit and vegetable consumption (odds ratio, 4.8; 95% confidence interval, 2.5-9.3) and blood pressure (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-7.9). A participant had 3-fold higher odds of attaining ≥3 ideal cardiovascular health variables if he or she had a partner who attained ≥3 components (odds ratio 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-5.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Intracouple concordance of ideal cardiovascular health variables supports the development and testing of couple-based interventions to promote cardiovascular health. Fruit and vegetable consumption and smoking may be particularly good intervention targets.

Normal LDL-Cholesterol Levels Are Associated With Subclinical Atherosclerosis in the Absence of Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

Absence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) is traditionally considered low risk for atherosclerosis; however, individuals without CVRFs, as currently defined, still have events.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to identify predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis in CVRF-free individuals.

METHODS

Participants from the PESA (Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis) study (n = 4,184) without conventional CVRFs were evaluated (n = 1,779; 45.0 ± 4.1 years, 50.3% women). CVRF freedom was defined as no current smoking and untreated blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg, fasting glucose <126 mg/dl, total cholesterol <240 mg/dl, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) <160 mg/dl, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥40 mg/dl. A subgroup with optimal CVRFs (n = 740) was also defined as having blood pressure <120/80 mm Hg, fasting glucose <100 mg/dl, glycosylated hemoglobin <5.7%, and total cholesterol <200 mg/dl. We evaluated ultrasound-detected carotid, iliofemoral, and abdominal aortic plaques; coronary artery calcification; serum biomarkers; and lifestyle. Adjusted odds ratios (with 95% confidence interval) and ordinal logistic regression models were used.

RESULTS

Subclinical atherosclerosis (plaque or coronary artery calcification) was present in 49.7% of CVRF-free participants. Together with male sex and age, LDL-C was independently associated with atherosclerosis presence and extent, in both the CVRF-free and CVRF-optimal groups (odds ratio [×10 mg/dl]: 1.14 to 1.18; p < 0.01 for all). Atherosclerosis presence and extent was also associated in the CVRF-free group with glycosylated hemoglobin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Many CVRF-free middle-aged individuals have atherosclerosis. LDL-C, even at levels currently considered normal, is independently associated with the presence and extent of early systemic atherosclerosis in the absence of major CVRFs. These findings support more effective LDL-C lowering for primordial prevention, even in individuals conventionally considered at optimal risk. (Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis [PESA] Study; NCT01410318).

NLRP3-inflammasome inhibition prevents high fat and high sugar diets-induced heart damage through autophagy induction

The NLRP3-inflammasome complex has emerged as an important component of inflammatory processes in metabolic dysfunction induced by high-caloric diets. In this study, we investigate the molecular mechanisms by which NLRP3 inhibition may attenuate diet-induced cardiac injury. Here we show the cardiac damage induced by high sugar diet (HSD), high fat diet (HFD) or high sugar/fat diet (HSFD) over 15 weeks. Genetic ablation of NLRP3 protected against this damage by autophagy induction and apoptotic control. Furthermore, NLRP3 inhibition by the selective small molecule MCC950 resulted in similar autophagy induction and apoptotic control in hearts after diets. These data were reproduced in THP-1 cells treated with MCC950 and cultured in media supplemented with serum from mice dosed with MCC950 and fed with diets. NLRP3 inhibition exerted beneficial metabolic, and autophagic adaptations in hearts from obesogenic diets. The inhibition of NLRP3 activation may hold promise in the treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.

Geographic Variations in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Luxembourg

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and associated behavioural and metabolic risk factors constitute a major public health concern at a global level. Many reports worldwide have documented different risk profiles for populations with demographic variations. The objective of this study was to examine geographic variations in the top leading cardio metabolic and behavioural risk factors in Luxembourg, in order to provide an overall picture of CVD burden across the country. The analysis conducted was based on data from the nationwide ORISCAV-LUX survey, including 1432 subjects, aged 18-69 years. A self-reported questionnaire, physical examination and blood sampling were performed. Age and sex-adjusted risk profile maps were generated using multivariate Bayesian geo-additive regression models, based on Markov Chain Monte Carlo techniques and were used to evaluate the significance of the spatial effects on the distribution of a range of cardio metabolic risk factors, namely smoking, high body mass index (BMI), high blood pressure, high fasting plasma glucose, alcohol use, high total cholesterol, low glomerular filtration rate, and physical inactivity. Higher prevalence of smoking was observed in the northern regions, higher overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity clustered in the central belt, whereas hypertension was spotted particularly in the southern part of the country. Maps revealed that subjects residing in Luxembourg canton were significantly less likely to be hypertensive or overweight/obese, whereas they were less likely to practice physical activity of ≥8000 Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET)-min/week. These patterns were also observed at the municipality level in Luxembourg. Statistically, there were non-significant spatial patterns regarding smoking, diabetes, total serum cholesterol and low glomerular filtration rate risk distribution. This comprehensive risk profile mapping showed remarkable geographic variations in cardio metabolic and behavioural risk factors. Considering the prominent burden of CVD this research provides opportunities for tailored interventions and may help to better fight against this escalating public health problem.

Increased Adipose and Muscle Insulin Sensitivity Without Changes in Serum Adiponectin in Young Female Collegiate Athletes

BACKGROUND

Effects of endurance training on adipose insulin sensitivity in association with body composition, circulating adipokines, and markers of inflammation have been studied less in young Asian subjects.

METHODS

Adipose insulin sensitivity/resistance was compared between 170 female Japanese collegiate athletes and 311 nonathletes (18-24 years), who underwent measurements of serum adipokines, markers of insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Two separate subsamples of two groups of women underwent either a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test or a standardized meal test, but not both.

RESULTS

As compared with nonathletes, athletes, characterized by higher skeletal muscle mass and lower percentage of body fat (both P < 0.001), had lower adipose insulin resistance (IR) (a product of fasting insulin and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) and lower leptin/adiponectin ratio (both P < 0.001). Although athletes had lower postmeal/postglucose insulinemia (P = 0.009 and 0.01, respectively), the two groups did not differ in postmeal percentage NEFA suppression and postmeal/postglucose glycemia, suggesting increased insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, respectively. Serum leptin (P < 0.001) and tumor necrosis factor-α (P = 0.01) were lower in athletes, whereas adiponectin and homeostasis model assessment IR did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

Endurance training was associated with increased insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue as well as skeletal muscle without changes in circulating adiponectin even in young, normal-weight Japanese women.

Mortality Among Black Men in the USA

IMPORTANCE

Black men have the lowest life expectancy of all major ethnic-sex populations in the USA, yet no recent studies have comprehensively examined black male mortality.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze recent mortality trends for black men, including black to white (B to W) disparities.

DESIGN

The study design was national mortality surveillance for 2000 to 2014.

SETTING

The setting was the USA.

POPULATION

All black non-Hispanic males aged ≥15 years old in the USA, including institutionalized persons, were included.

EXPOSURE

The 15 leading causes of death were analyzed.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Linear regression of log-transformed annual age-adjusted death rates was used to calculate average annual percent change (AAPC) in mortality. Black to white (B to W) disparity rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were compared for 2000 and 2014. The most recent available social and economic profile data were obtained from the U.S. Census of Population.

RESULTS

The top five causes of death for black men in 2014, with percentage of total deaths, were (1) heart disease (24.8%), (2) cancer (23.0%), (3) unintentional injuries (5.8%), (4) stroke (5.1%), and (5) homicide (4.3%). Significant mortality declines for 12 of the 15 leading causes occurred through 2014, with the strongest decline for HIV/AIDS (AAPC -8.0, 95% CI -8.8 to -7.1). Only Alzheimer's disease, ranked #15, significantly increased (AAPC +2.5, 95% CI +1.4 to +3.7). Significant black disadvantage persisted for 10 of the 15 leading causes in 2014, including homicide (RR = 10.43, 95% CI 9.98 to 10.89), HIV/AIDS (RR = 8.01, 95% CI 7.50 to 8.54), diabetes (RR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.82 to 1.93), and stroke (RR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.57 to 1.65). The B to W disparity did not improve for heart disease (RR 1.24 in 2000 vs. RR 1.23 in 2014), but did improve for cancer (RR 1.39 in 2000 vs. 1.20 in 2014). Death rates were significantly lower in black men for five causes, including unintentional injuries (RR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.80 to 0.84), chronic lower respiratory diseases (RR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.78), and suicide (RR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.39).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Total mortality significantly declined for black men from 2000 to 2014, and the overall B to W disparity narrowed to RR = 1.21 (95% CI 1.20 to 1.23) in 2014. However, significant black disadvantages relative to white men persisted for 10 leading causes of death.

The Supply and Demand of the Cardiovascular Workforce: Striking the Right Balance

As the burden of cardiovascular disease in the United States continues to increase, uncertainty remains on how well-equipped the cardiovascular workforce is to meet the challenges that lie ahead. In a time when health care is rapidly shifting, numerous factors affect the supply and demand of the cardiovascular workforce. This Council Commentary critically examines several factors that influence the cardiovascular workforce. These include current workforce demographics and projections, evolving health care and practice environments, and the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease. Finally, we propose 3 strategies to optimize the workforce. These focus on cardiovascular disease prevention, the effective utilization of the cardiovascular care team, and alterations to the training pathway for cardiologists.

Prevalence of Low Cardiovascular Risk Profile Among Diverse Hispanic/Latino Adults in the United States by Age, Sex, and Level of Acculturation: The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos

BACKGROUND

Favorable levels of all readily measurable major cardiovascular disease risk factors (ie, low risk [LR]) are associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. Data are not available on LR prevalence among Hispanic/Latino adults of diverse ethnic backgrounds. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of a low cardiovascular disease risk profile among Hispanic/Latino adults in the United States and to examine cross-sectional associations of LR with measures of acculturation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The multicenter, prospective, population-based Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos examined 16 415 men and women aged 18 to 74 years at baseline (2008-2011) with diverse Hispanic/Latino backgrounds. Analyses involved 14 757 adults (mean age 41.3 years; 60.6% women). LR was defined using national guidelines for favorable levels of serum cholesterol, blood pressure, and body mass index and by not having diabetes mellitus and not currently smoking. Age-adjusted LR prevalence was low (8.4% overall; 5.1% for men, 11.2% for women) and varied by background (4.2% in men of Mexican heritage versus 15.0% in women of Cuban heritage). Lower acculturation (assessed using proxy measures) was significantly associated with higher odds of a LR profile among women only: Age-adjusted odds ratios of having LR were 1.64 (95% CI 1.24-2.17) for foreign-born versus US-born women and 1.96 (95% CI 1.49-2.58) for women residing in the United States <10 versus ≥10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Among diverse US Hispanic/Latino adults, the prevalence of a LR profile is low. Lower acculturation is associated with higher odds of a LR profile among women but not men. Comprehensive public health strategies are needed to improve the cardiovascular health of US Hispanic/Latino adults.

Relationships of nativity and length of residence in the U.S. with favorable cardiovascular health among Hispanics/Latinos: The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)

Individuals with favorable levels of all readily measured major CVD risk factors (low CV risk) during middle age incur lower cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, lower all-cause mortality, and lower Medicare costs at older ages compared to adults with one or more unfavorable CVD risk factors. Studies on predictors of low CV risk in Hispanics/Latinos have focused solely on Mexican-Americans. The objective of this study was to use data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL; enrolled 2008 to 2011) to assess relationships of nativity and length of residence in the US, a commonly used proxy for acculturation, with low CV risk (not currently smoking; no diabetes; untreated total cholesterol <200mg/dL; untreated blood pressure<120/<80; body mass index <25kg/m(2); and no major ECG abnormalities) in 15,047 Central American, South American, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican men and women, and Hispanic/Latino men and women identifying as other or >1 heritage. We also tested whether associations varied by Hispanic/Latino background. Women living in the US<10years were 1.96 (95% confidence interval: 1.37, 2.80) times more likely to be low CV risk than US-born women after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, diet, physical activity, and self-reported experiences of ethnic discrimination. Findings varied in men by Hispanic/Latino background, but length of residence was largely unrelated to low CV risk. These findings highlight the role acculturative processes play in shaping cardiovascular health in Hispanics/Latinos.

Optimal Levels of All Major Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Younger Age and Functional Disability in Older Age: The Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry 32-Year Follow-Up Health Survey

BACKGROUND

The associations of optimal levels of all major cardiovascular disease risk factors, that is, low risk, in younger age with subsequent cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality have been well documented. However, little is known about associations of low-risk profiles in younger age with functional disability in older age.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The sample included 6014 participants from the Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry Study. Low-risk status, defined as untreated systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≤120/≤80 mm Hg, untreated serum total cholesterol <5.18 mmol/l, not smoking, body mass index < 25 kg/m(2), and no diabetes mellitus, was assessed at baseline (1967 to 1973). Functional disability, categorized as (1) any disability in activities of daily living (ADLs), (2) any disability in instrumental ADLs but not in ADL, or (3) no disability, was assessed from the 2003 health survey. There were 39% women, 4% Black, with a mean age of 43 years and 6% low-risk status at baseline. After 32 years, 7% reported having limitations in performing any ADL and 11% in any instrumental ADL only. The prevalence of any ADL limitation was lowest in low-risk people and increased in a graded fashion with less-favorable risk factor groups (P trend <0.001). Compared with those with 2+ high-risk factors, the multivariable-adjusted odds of having any disability in ADLs versus no disability in people with low risk, any moderate risk, and 1 high-risk factor at baseline were lower by 58%, 48%, and 37%, respectively. Results were similar for instrumental ADLs, in both men and women.

CONCLUSIONS

Having an optimal cardiovascular disease risk factor profile at younger age is associated with the lowest rate of functional disability in older age.

Genetic loci associated with ideal cardiovascular health: A meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies

BACKGROUND

Multiple genetic loci are associated with clinical cardiovascular (CV) disease and individual CV risk factors. Individuals with ideal levels of all major CV risk factors have very low risk for CV disease morbidity or mortality. Ideal levels of risk factors can be attained by lifestyle modifications; however, little is known about gene variants associated with ideal CV health. Our objective was to carry out a genome-wide association study on the trait.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We examined 2 dichotomous phenotypes of ideal CV health-clinical (untreated cholesterol <200 mg/dL, untreated blood pressure <120/<80, not diabetic) and clinical+behavioral (clinical plus: not a current smoker, body mass index <25 kg/m(2))-among white participants aged 50±5 years. We performed a meta-analysis of 4 genome-wide association studies (total n=11,708) from the MESA, CARDIA, ARIC, and Framingham Heart Study cohorts. We identified a single-nucleotide polymorphism (rs445925) in the APOC1/APOE region that was associated with clinical ideal CV health at genome-wide level of significance (P<2.0 × 10(-9)). The significance of this region was validated using exome chip genotyping. The association with ideal CV health was attenuated after adjusting for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

CONCLUSION

A common single-nucleotide polymorphism in the APOC1/APOE region, previously found to be associated with protective levels of cholesterol and lower CV risk, may be associated with ideal health. In future replication studies, larger sample sizes may be needed to detect loci with more modest effects on ideal CV health. In addition to the important impact of lifestyle modifications, we have identified evidence for gene variation that plays a role in ideal CV health.

Cardiovascular mortality associated with 5 leading risk factors: national and state preventable fractions estimated from survey data

BACKGROUND

Impressive decreases in cardiovascular mortality have been achieved through risk factor reduction and clinical intervention, yet cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death nationally.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate up-to-date preventable fractions of cardiovascular mortality associated with elimination and reduction of 5 leading risk factors nationally and by state in the United States.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional and cohort studies.

SETTING

Nationally representative and state-representative samples of the U.S. population.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults aged 45 to 79 years.

MEASUREMENTS

Self-reported risk factor status in the BRFSS (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) 2009-2010 was corrected to approximate clinical definitions. The relative hazards of cardiovascular death (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, codes I00 to I99) associated with risk factors were estimated using data from NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) (1988-1994 and 1999-2004, followed through 2006).

RESULTS

The preventable fraction of cardiovascular mortality associated with complete elimination of elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and smoking was 54.0% for men and 49.6% for women in 2009 to 2010. When the more feasible target of reducing risk factors to the best achieved levels in the states was considered, diabetes (1.7% and 4.1%), hypertension (3.8% and 7.3%), and smoking (5.1% and 4.4%) were independently associated with the largest preventable fractions among men and women, respectively. With both targets, southern states had the largest preventable fractions, and western states had the smallest.

LIMITATION

Self-reported state data; mortality hazards relied on baseline risk factor status.

CONCLUSION

Major modifiable cardiovascular risk factors collectively accounted for half of cardiovascular deaths in U.S. adults aged 45 to 79 years in 2009 to 2010. Fewer than 10% of cardiovascular deaths nationally could be prevented if all states were to achieve risk factor levels observed in the best-performing states.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Novel Approaches in Primary Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: The HOPE-3 Trial Rationale, Design, and Participants' Baseline Characteristics

BACKGROUND

Cholesterol and blood pressure (BP) can be effectively and safely lowered with statin drugs and BP-lowering drugs, reducing major cardiovascular (CV) events by 20%-30% within 5 years in high-risk individuals. However, there are limited data in lower-risk populations. The Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation-3 (HOPE-3) trial is evaluating whether cholesterol lowering with a statin drug, BP lowering with low doses of 2 antihypertensive agents, and their combination safely reduce major CV events in individuals at intermediate risk who have had no previous vascular events and have average cholesterol and BP levels.

METHODS

A total of 12,705 women 65 years or older and men 55 years or older with at least 1 CV risk factor, no known CV disease, and without any clear indication or contraindication to the study drugs were randomized to rosuvastatin 10 mg/d or placebo and to candesartan/hydrochlorothiazide 16/12.5 mg/d or placebo (2 × 2 factorial design) and will be followed for a mean of 5.8 years. The coprimary study outcomes are the composite of CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), and nonfatal stroke and the composite of CV death, nonfatal MI, nonfatal stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, heart failure, and arterial revascularization.

RESULTS

Participants were recruited from 21 countries in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Mean age at randomization was 66 years and 46% were women.

CONCLUSIONS

The HOPE-3 trial will provide new information on cholesterol and BP lowering in intermediate-risk populations with average cholesterol and BP levels and is expected to inform approaches to primary prevention worldwide (HOPE-3 ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00468923).

Prevalence, pharmacological treatment, and control of cardiometabolic risk factors among older people in central Stockholm: a population-based study

Background

Cardiometabolic risk factors and related cardiovascular diseases represent major threats to healthy aging.

Objective

We aimed to estimate distribution, pharmacological treatment, and control of main cardiometabolic risk factors among older people.

Methods

This population-based study included 3363 participants (age≥60 years, 64.9% women) in the Swedish National study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen, in central Stockholm, Sweden (2001-2004). Data on demographics, cardiometabolic risk factors (hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol), and medication use were collected through face-to-face interviews, clinical examinations, laboratory tests, and the inpatient register. Cardiometabolic risk factors were defined following the most commonly used criteria. Prevalence was standardized using local census data.

Results

The age- and sex-standardized prevalence of diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension was 9.5%, 12.8%, 49.7%, and 74.9%, respectively. The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes increased with age, whereas the prevalence of obesity and high cholesterol decreased with age. Forty-nine percent of older adults had two or more cardiometabolic risk factors; 9.8% had three or more. Overall, 55.5% of people with hypertension, 50.3% with diabetes, and 25.0% with high cholesterol received pharmacological treatment. Of those treated pharmacologically, 49.4%, 38.1%, and 85.5% reached therapeutic goals for hypertension (blood pressure<150/90 mmHg), diabetes (glycated haemoglobin<7%), and high cholesterol (total cholesterol<6.22 mmol/l), respectively.

Conclusions

Hypertension, high cholesterol, and clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors were common among older people in Stockholm, but pharmacological treatment and control of these major factors can be improved. Appropriate management of cardiometabolic profiles among older people may help improve cardiovascular health and achieve healthy aging.

Lifestyle Factors and Coronary Artery Calcification

The effective prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a global health challenge. Adopting a combined primary (prevention of the first episode of coronary heart disease or stroke) and primordial (prevention of the causal risk factors of CVD) prevention strategy is the best approach to prevent CVD. Most importantly, the primordial prevention strategy should in the first place be to promote cardiovascular health across individual and population levels by improving the underlying causal risk factors for CVD (i.e., unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, obesity, and cigarette smoking). Epidemiological evidence indicates that maintaining favorable underlying risk factors (lifestyle factors) is associated with a lower risk of incident CVD. Prevention of early atherosclerotic vascular disease is also an important strategy to prevent CVD. However, there has been limited research on the association between lifestyle factors and early atherosclerotic vascular disease (i.e., coronary or carotid atherosclerosis) across race and gender groups in population-based studies. This article briefly reviews whether lifestyle factors relate to subclinical atherosclerosis as assessed by coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic individuals.

Health factors and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and coronary heart disease mortality: findings from the MONICA and HAPIEE studies in Lithuania

Aims

This study investigated the trends and levels of the prevalence of health factors, and the association of all-cause and cardiovascular (CVD) mortality with healthy levels of combined risk factors among Lithuanian urban population.

Methods

Data from five general population surveys in Kaunas, Lithuania, conducted between 1983 and 2008 were used. Healthy factors measured at baseline include non-smoking, normal weight, normal arterial blood pressure, normal level of total serum cholesterol, normal physical activity and normal level of fasting glucose. Among 9,209 men and women aged 45–64 (7,648 were free from coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke at baseline), 1,219 death cases from any cause, 589 deaths from CVD, and 342 deaths from CHD occurred during follow up. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the association between health factors and mortality from all causes, CVD and CHD.

Results

Between 1983 and 2008, the proportion of subjects with 6 healthy levels of risk factors was higher in 2006–2008 than in 1983–1984 (0.6% vs. 0.2%; p = 0.09), although there was a significant increase in fasting glucose and a decline in intermediate physical activity. Men and women with normal or intermediate levels of risk factors had significantly lower all-cause, CVD and CHD mortality risk than persons with high levels of risk factors. Subjects with 5–6 healthy factors had hazard ratio (HR) of CVD mortality 0.35 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15–0.83) compared to average risk in the whole population. The hazard ratio for CVD mortality risk was significant in men (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.12–0.97) but not in women (HR 0.38, 95% CI 0.09–1.67).

Conclusions

An inverse association of most healthy levels of cardiovascular risk factors with risk of all-cause and CVD mortality was observed in this urban population-based cohort. A greater number of cardiovascular health factors were related with significantly lower risk of CVD mortality, particularly among men.

Management of vascular risk factors in the Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy Versus Stenting Trial (CREST)

Background

The Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy Versus Stenting Trial (CREST) is a multicenter randomized trial of stenting versus endarterectomy in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid disease. This study assesses management of vascular risk factors.

Methods and Results

Management was provided by the patient's physician, with biannual monitoring results collected by the local site. Therapeutic targets were low‐density lipoprotein, cholesterol <100 mg/dL, systolic blood pressure <140 mm Hg, fasting blood glucose <126 mg/dL, and nonsmoking status. Optimal control was defined as achieving all 4 goals concurrently. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare risk factors at baseline with those observed in scheduled follow‐up visits for up to 48 months. In the analysis cohort of 2210, significant improvements in risk‐factor control were observed across risk factors for all follow‐up visits compared with baseline. At 48 months, achievement of the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol goal improved from 59.1% to 73.6% (P<0.001), achievement of the systolic blood pressure goal improved from 51.6% to 65.1% (P<0.001), achievement of the glucose goal improved from 74.9% to 80.7% (P=0.0101), and nonsmoking improved from 74.4% to 80.9% (P<0.0001). The percentage with optimal risk‐factor control also improved significantly, from 16.7% to 36.2% (P<0.001), but nearly 2 of 3 study participants did not achieve optimal control during the study.

Conclusions

Site‐based risk‐factor control improved significantly in the first 6 months and over the long term in CREST but was often suboptimal. Intensive medical management should be considered for future trials of carotid revascularization.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL: ClinicalTrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00004732.

Vascular risk factor burden, atherosclerosis, and functional dependence in old age: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Vascular risk factors such as hypertension and obesity have been associated with physical limitations among older adults.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to examine whether individual and aggregated vascular risk factors (VRFs) are associated with functional dependence and to what extent carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) or peripheral artery disease (PAD) may mediate the possible associations of aggregated VRFs with functional dependence.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study included 1,451 community-living participants aged ≥60 years in the Confucius Hometown Aging Project of China. Data on demographic features, hypertension, high total cholesterol, obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, diabetes, CAS, PAD, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) were collected through an interview, a clinical examination, and laboratory tests. Functional dependence was defined as being dependent in at least one activity in the personal or instrumental activities of daily living. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic models controlling for potential confounders. We used the mediation model to explore the potential mediating effect of CAS and PAD on the associations of aggregated VRFs with functional dependence.

RESULTS

Of the 1,451 participants, 222 (15.3%) had functional dependence. The likelihood of functional dependence increased linearly with increasing number of VRFs (hypertension, high total cholesterol, abdominal obesity, and physical inactivity) (p for trend <0.002). Mediation analysis showed that controlling for demographics and CVDs up to 11% of the total association of functional dependence with clustering VRFs was mediated by CAS and PAD.

CONCLUSION

Aggregation of multiple VRFs is associated with an increased likelihood of functional dependence among Chinese older adults; the association is partially mediated by carotid and peripheral artery atherosclerosis independently of CVDs.

Secular trends in the prevalence of low risk factor burden for cardiovascular disease according to obesity status among Chinese adults, 1993-2009

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and obesity are now common among Chinese. We aimed to examine secular trends in the prevalence of low risk profile and to examine whether comparable changes in the prevalence of low risk profile across waist circumference (WC) groups and body mass index (BMI) categories have occurred.

Methods

We used data from the nationwide China Health and Nutrition Survey conducted in 1993, 1997, 2000, 2004, 2006, and 2009. There were 7274, 8368, 9369, 8948, 8786, and 9278 participants included in the analyses across the six study periods. We created an index of low risk factor burden from the following variables: not currently smoking, BMI < 25 kg/m², WC < 90/80 cm in men/women, untreated systolic/diastolic blood pressure < 120/80 mmHg, and not having been previously diagnosed with diabetes.

Results

During the period of 1993–2009, the age-adjusted prevalence of low risk profile decreased from 16.2 to 11.5% among men and from 46.3 to 34.6% among women (both P < 0.001); Similar significant trends were observed in all age groups, rural/urban settings, education groups, WC status and BMI categories. The change in the prevalence of low risk profile was more striking among obese persons (P for interaction terms cohort *BMI were < 0.001). In 2009, 2.0 and 25.6% among central obese men and women had a low risk profile; Of note, was that 0.1 and 0.3% general obese men and women had a low risk profile.

Conclusions

The prevalence of low risk profile declined considerably over the past 17 years in all demographic groups, WC status, and BMI categories. Public health prevention strategies are urgently needed.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2458-14-961) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prehypertension: Underlying pathology and therapeutic options

Prehypertension (PHTN) is a global major health risk that subjects individuals to double the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) independent of progression to overt hypertension. Its prevalence rate varies considerably from country to country ranging between 21.9% and 52%. Many hypotheses are proposed to explain the underlying pathophysiology of PHTN. The most notable of these implicate the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and vascular endothelium. However, other processes that involve reactive oxygen species, the inflammatory cytokines, prostglandins and C-reactive protein as well as the autonomic and central nervous systems are also suggested. Drugs affecting RAS have been shown to produce beneficial effects in prehypertensives though such was not unequivocal. On the other hand, drugs such as β-adrenoceptor blocking agents were not shown to be useful. Leading clinical guidelines suggest using dietary and lifestyle modifications as a first line interventional strategy to curb the progress of PHTN; however, other clinically respected views call for using drugs. This review provides an overview of the potential pathophysiological processes associated with PHTN, abridges current intervention strategies and suggests investigating the value of using the "Polypill" in prehypertensive subjects to ascertain its potential in delaying (or preventing) CVD associated with raised blood pressure in the presence of other risk factors.

Status of cardiovascular disease and stroke in Hispanics/Latinos in the United States: a science advisory from the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This American Heart Association (AHA) scientific statement provides a comprehensive overview of current evidence on the burden cardiovascular disease (CVD) among Hispanics in the United States. Hispanics are the largest minority ethnic group in the United States, and their health is vital to the public health of the nation and to achieving the AHA's 2020 goals. This statement describes the CVD epidemiology and related personal beliefs and the social and health issues of US Hispanics, and it identifies potential prevention and treatment opportunities. The intended audience for this statement includes healthcare professionals, researchers, and policy makers.

METHODS

Writing group members were nominated by the AHA's Manuscript Oversight Committee and represent a broad range of expertise in relation to Hispanic individuals and CVD. The writers used a general framework outlined by the committee chair to produce a comprehensive literature review that summarizes existing evidence, indicate gaps in current knowledge, and formulate recommendations. Only English-language studies were reviewed, with PubMed/MEDLINE as our primary resource, as well as the Cochrane Library Reviews, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the US Census data as secondary resources. Inductive methods and descriptive studies that focused on CVD outcomes incidence, prevalence, treatment response, and risks were included. Because of the wide scope of these topics, members of the writing committee were responsible for drafting individual sections selected by the chair of the writing committee, and the group chair assembled the complete statement. The conclusions of this statement are the views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official view of the AHA. All members of the writing group had the opportunity to comment on the initial drafts and approved the final version of this document. The manuscript underwent extensive AHA internal peer review before consideration and approval by the AHA Science Advisory and Coordinating Committee.

RESULTS

This statement documents the status of knowledge regarding CVD among Hispanics and the sociocultural issues that impact all subgroups of Hispanics with regard to cardiovascular health. In this review, whenever possible, we identify the specific Hispanic subgroups examined to avoid generalizations. We identify specific areas for which current evidence was less robust, as well as inconsistencies and evidence gaps that inform the need for further rigorous and interdisciplinary approaches to increase our understanding of the US Hispanic population and its potential impact on the public health and cardiovascular health of the total US population. We provide recommendations specific to the 9 domains outlined by the chair to support the development of these culturally tailored and targeted approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare professionals and researchers need to consider the impact of culture and ethnicity on health behavior and ultimately health outcomes. There is a need to tailor and develop culturally relevant strategies to engage Hispanics in cardiovascular health promotion and cultivate a larger workforce of healthcare providers, researchers, and allies with the focused goal of improving cardiovascular health and reducing CVD among the US Hispanic population.

Trends in cardiovascular disease risk factors by obesity level in adults in the United States, NHANES 1999-2010

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether trends in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors by among overweight and obese US adults have improved.

METHODS

The study included 10,568 adults 18 years and older who participated in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2010. CVD risk factors included diabetes (self-reported diagnosis, glycated hemoglobin ≥6.5%, or fasting plasma glucose ≥126mg/dl), hypertension (treatment or blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg), dyslipidemia (treatment or non-HDL cholesterol ≥160 mg/dl), and smoking (self-report or cotinine levels ≥10 ng/ml). The prevalence and temporal trends of CVD risk factors for each BMI group were estimated.

RESULTS

In 2007-2010, the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia was highest among obese (18.5%, 35.7%, 49.7%, respectively) followed by overweight (8.2%, 26.4%, 44.2%, respectively) and normal weight adults (5.4%, 19.8%, 28.6%, respectively). Smoking exposure was highest among normal weight (29.8%) followed by overweight (24.8%) and obese adults (24.6%). From 1999-2002 to 2007-2010, untreated hypertension decreased among obese and overweight adults and untreated dyslipidemia decreased for all weight groups. There were no significant temporal changes in smoking across BMI groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite decreases in untreated risk factors, it is important to improve the CVD risk profile of overweight and obese US adults.

Race and the insulin resistance syndrome

Type 2 diabetes remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality. The metabolic syndrome affects 25% of the adult US population based on the Third Report of the Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults from the National Cholesterol Education Program. Knowledge on the impact of obesity on metabolic health parameters has increased greatly over the past decade. This review discusses the limitations of the National Cholesterol Education Program metabolic syndrome definition and the racial disparities in the clinical presentation of the insulin resistance syndrome. We also examine the current literature with particular emphasis on albuminuria, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and intramyocellular lipid content. This review explores potential environmental and genetic reasons for differences in the manifestation of insulin resistance across racial/ethnic groups and highlights several promising areas for further study.

Prevention of cardiovascular disease: updating the immensity of the challenge and the role of risk factors

Despite remarkable decreases in the mortality of coronary heart disease, there is concern that continued high levels of cardiovascular risk in the population may reverse these gains. By 2015, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in the United States will be 37.8%. Obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus (DM), metabolic syndrome, and inflammation are the primary components driving cardiovascular risk. Approximately 70% of adults are overweight or obese, yet diet quality continues to deteriorate and authoritative information is insufficiently promoted. More than half of US adults have lipid abnormalities; 27% of US adults have high values of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 23% have low values of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, and 30% have high triglyceride levels. Approximately 34% of adults have hypertension; 40% of these adults are unaware of the diagnosis. In patients with hypertension who are treated, 54% remain uncontrolled. The prevalence of hypertension in elderly patients has increased from 35% to 41%. In addition, 30% of adults have prehypertension. The burden of hypertension alone accounts for approximately 1000 deaths per day. Trends in the prevalence of glucose intolerance are similar. The prevalence of DM is approximately 12%, with 27% of cases remaining undiagnosed. Thirty-five percent of US adults aged > 20 years have prediabetes and 7.3% of adults are unaware of the diagnosis. If the present trends continue, 1 in 3 of US adults will have DM by 2050. Participation in exercise has been low and a "straight line" for > 2 decades. Accelerometer data indicate that individuals who attain minimal exercise goals are only a fraction of the often quoted levels of > 35%. Control of risk factors in primary prevention, although improved, remains decidedly incomplete. Lowering the burden of cardiovascular risk factors at the population level has been exceptionally difficult. For reasons outlined, the solution to this problem is multifaceted and extends well beyond the delivery of medical care into the structure of society and the environment.

A community-based exercise intervention transitions metabolically abnormal obese adults to a metabolically healthy obese phenotype

BACKGROUND

Lower habitual physical activity and poor cardiorespiratory fitness are common features of the metabolically abnormal obese (MAO) phenotype that contribute to increased cardiovascular disease risk. The aims of the present study were to determine 1) whether community-based exercise training transitions MAO adults to metabolically healthy, and 2) whether the odds of transition to metabolically healthy were larger for obese individuals who performed higher volumes of exercise and/or experienced greater increases in fitness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome components were measured in 332 adults (190 women, 142 men) before and after a supervised 14-week community-based exercise program designed to reduce cardiometabolic risk factors. Obese (body mass index ≥30 kg · m(2)) adults with two to four metabolic syndrome components were classified as MAO, whereas those with no or one component were classified as metabolically healthy but obese (MHO). After community exercise, 27/68 (40%) MAO individuals (P<0.05) transitioned to metabolically healthy, increasing the total number of MHO persons by 73% (from 37 to 64). Compared with the lowest quartiles of relative energy expenditure and change in fitness, participants in the highest quartiles were 11.6 (95% confidence interval: 2.1-65.4; P<0.05) and 7.5 (95% confidence interval: 1.5-37.5; P<0.05) times more likely to transition from MAO to MHO, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Community-based exercise transitions MAO adults to metabolically healthy. MAO adults who engaged in higher volumes of exercise and experienced the greatest increase in fitness were significantly more likely to become metabolically healthy. Community exercise may be an effective model for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Trends in Cardiovascular Health Metrics among Korean Adults

Background

American Heart Association (AHA) defined 7 cardiovascular health metrics for the general population to improve cardiovascular health in 2010: not smoking; having normal blood pressure; being physically active; normal body mass index, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels; and eating a healthy diet. To investigate trends in cardiovascular health metrics in Korea, we used data from the third and fourth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys.

Methods

We defined seven cardiovascular health metrics similar to the one defined by AHA but physical activity, body mass index, and healthy diet were properly redefined to be suited for the Korean population. We compared each cardiovascular health metric and calculated the sum of cardiovascular health metrics after dichotomizing each health metric to ideal (scored 1) and poor (scored 0).

Results

Health metric scores of smoking in males (P value for trend < 0.001), physical activity both in males and females (P-value for trend < 0.001 both), body mass index in females (P-value for trend = 0.030), and blood pressure both in males and females (P-value for trend < 0.001, both) were improved. On the other hand, health metric scores of healthy diet in males (P-value for trend = 0.002), and fasting blood glucose both in males and females (P-value for trend < 0.001 both) got worse. The total scores of seven health metrics were stationary.

Conclusion

Total scores were not changed but each metric showed various trends. A long-term study is necessary for analyzing exact trends.

Chicago Healthy Aging Study: objectives and design

Investigators in the Chicago Healthy Aging Study (CHAS) reexamined 1,395 surviving participants aged 65-84 years (28% women) from the Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry (CHA) 1967-1973 cohort whose cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk profiles were originally ascertained at ages 25-44 years. CHAS investigators reexamined 421 participants who were low-risk (LR) at baseline and 974 participants who were non-LR at baseline. LR was defined as having favorable levels of 4 major CVD risk factors: serum total cholesterol level <200 mg/dL and no use of cholesterol-lowering medication; blood pressure 120/≤80 mm Hg and no use of antihypertensive medication; no current smoking; and no history of diabetes or heart attack. While the potential of LR status in overcoming the CVD epidemic is being recognized, the long-term association of LR with objectively measured health in older age has not been examined. It is hypothesized that persons who were LR in 1967-1973 and have survived to older age will have less clinical and subclinical CVD, lower levels of inflammatory markers, and better physical performance/functioning and sleep quality. Here we describe the rationale, objectives, design, and implementation of this longitudinal epidemiologic study, compare baseline and follow-up characteristics of participants and nonparticipants, and highlight the feasibility of reexamining study participants after an extended period postbaseline with minimal interim contact.

Relation between adiponectin and brain natriuretic peptide in healthy pediatric subjects: from birth through childhood

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

New biomarkers potentially improve clinical management of cardiovascular disease, but there are gaps in understanding their role during childhood. Adiponectin regulates metabolism and exerts anti-inflammatory/anti-atherogenic effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate circulating levels of adiponectin during postnatal growth and its relationship with Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) in healthy children, a marker of cardiac function known to be increased in childhood.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Plasma adiponectin and BNP were measured in 131 healthy children divided into: 43 newborns (0-3 days), 29 neonates (4-30 days), 25 infants (1-12 months) and 34 children (1-12 years). A group of 33 healthy adult subjects (25-60 years) was also studied. Plasma adiponectin in the 131 children resulted significantly higher compared to adult subjects (p < 0.0001). The time-course of adiponectin suggests the design of three age-based intervals: the first until 1 month of age (median 29.07 μg/mL, 11.61-47.01 μg/mL 5°-95° percentiles), the second between 1 and 12 months of age (21.66 μg/mL, 8.83-59.81 μg/mL) and the third for age up to 12 years (13.81 μg/mL, 4.10-28.57 μg/mL). Both adiponectin and BNP exhibited the same trend of a progressive decrease during growth, showing a significant relationship (Spearman's rho = 0.403, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Adiponectin plasma levels in a healthy pediatric population vary as a function of age. Three reference intervals for adiponectin in pediatric subjects have been indicated. The relationship between adiponectin and BNP suggests that the age-dependent profile of circulating adiponectin could also be due to BNP.

Association of cardiovascular burden with mobility limitation among elderly people: a population-based study

Background

Cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) such as smoking and diabetes have been associated with mobility limitations among older adults. We seek to examine to what extent individual and aggregated CRFs and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are associated with mobility limitation.

Methods

The study sample included 2725 participants (age ≥60 years, mean age 72.7 years, 62% women) in the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in the Kungsholmen district of central Stockholm, Sweden, who were living either at their own home or in institutions. Data on demographic features, CRFs, and CVDs were collected through interview, clinical examination, self-reported history, laboratory tests, and inpatient register. Mobility limitation was defined as walking speed <0.8 m/s. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic models controlling for potential confounders.

Results

Of the 2725 participants, 581 (21.3%) had mobility limitation. The likelihood of mobility limitation increased linearly with the increasing number of CRFs (i.e., hypertension, high C-reactive protein, obesity, diabetes and smoking) (p for linear trend<0.010) and of CVDs (i.e., ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure and stroke) (p for linear trend<0.001). There were statistical interactions of aggregated CRFs with age and APOE ε4 allele on mobility limitation (p_interaction<0.05), such that the association of mobility limitation with aggregated CRFs was statistically evident only among people aged <80 years and among carriers of the APOE ε4 allele.

Conclusion

Aggregations of multiple CRFs and CVDs are associated with an increased likelihood of mobility limitation among older adults; however the associations of CRFs with mobility limitation vary by age and genetic susceptibility.

Distribution of ideal cardiovascular health by educational levels from 1978 to 2006: a time trend study from the capital region of Denmark

BACKGROUND

The focus on improvements in ideal cardiovascular health is a relatively new approach and to our knowledge nobody has published the trend in regard to educational difference.

DESIGN

Time trend analysis from six cross-sectional studies in 1978-2006 from the south-western part of the capital region of Denmark.

METHODS

This analysis included 16,935 individuals aged 30-64 years. Ideal cardiovascular health was achieved if all of the following criteria were met: no established cardiovascular disease, no diabetes, no antihypertensive or lipid-lowering treatment, non-smoker, body mass index <25 kg/m(2), blood pressure ≤120/80 mmHg and total cholesterol ≤5 mmol/l. Results are presented adjusted for age and stratified according to sex and educational level as length of vocational training.

RESULTS

The proportion of women with ideal cardiovascular health increased from 2% in 1978 to 13% in 2006. From 1991, an educational difference occurred, increasing to a 5-fold difference in 2006 between the highest and lowest educated women. For men, a less pronounced increase occurred from 1% in 1978 to 5% in 2006; a change which was only significant among the highest educated. An educational difference occurred from 1986 to 1999 between the highest and lowest educated men, but was no longer present in 2006.

CONCLUSIONS

The trend for women shows an increasing proportion in ideal cardiovascular health with a more unfavourable risk profile among women with a low educational level. For men, the educational difference was less pronounced probably because very few men reached an ideal cardiovascular risk profile. This stresses the importance for preventive efforts targeting low educated groups, and men in particular.

"Missing pieces": exploring cardiac risk perceptions in older women

Approximately 95% of older women have factors that put them at risk for developing cardiovascular disease, but research indicates many do not perceive themselves to be at risk. We examined older women's perceived risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) and the factors influencing their perceptions. We conducted a descriptive, qualitative study using in-depth, individual interviews and quantitative measures to assess perceived risk and risk factors. Twenty-four older African American and Caucasian women had a mean 4.46 cardiac risk factors but perceived their own CHD risk as unrealistically low at 1.95 cm (SD = 1.57, on 0-to-8 cm visual analogue scale). Narrative data clustered in themes that represented a lack of fact-based information and multiple misconceptions about CHD and prevention. Major improvements in CHD health are only achievable if risk factors are prevented. This research suggests older women have substantial needs for consistent CHD information and prevention guidance.

Unequal trends in coronary heart disease mortality by socioeconomic circumstances, England 1982-2006: an analytical study

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a major public health burden, causing 80,000 deaths annually in England and Wales, with major inequalities. However, there are no recent analyses of age-specific socioeconomic trends in mortality. We analysed annual trends in inequalities in age-specific CHD mortality rates in small areas in England, grouped into deprivation quintiles.

Methods

We calculated CHD mortality rates for 10-year age groups (from 35 to ≥85 years) using three year moving averages between 1982 and 2006. We used Joinpoint regression to identify significant turning points in age- sex- and deprivation-specific time trends. We also analysed trends in absolute and relative inequalities in age-standardised rates between the least and most deprived areas.

Results

Between 1982 and 2006, CHD mortality fell by 62.2% in men and 59.7% in women. Falls were largest for the most deprived areas with the highest initial level of CHD mortality. However, a social gradient in the pace of fall was apparent, being steepest in the least deprived quintile. Thus, while absolute inequalities narrowed over the period, relative inequalities increased. From 2000, declines in mortality rates slowed or levelled off in the youngest groups, notably in women aged 45–54 in the least deprived groups. In contrast, from age 55 years and older, rates of fall in CHD mortality accelerated in the 2000s, likewise falling fastest in the least deprived quintile.

Conclusions

Age-standardised CHD mortality rates have declined substantially in England, with the steepest falls in the most affluent quintiles. However, this concealed contrasting patterns in underlying age-specific rates. From 2000, mortality rates levelled off in the youngest groups but accelerated in middle aged and older groups. Mortality analyses by small areas could provide potentially valuable insights into possible drivers of inequalities, and thus inform future strategies to reduce CHD mortality across all social groups.