Tirzepatide after intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with overweight or obesity: the SURMOUNT-3 phase 3 trial

The effects of tirzepatide, a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, on weight reduction after successful intensive lifestyle intervention are unknown. This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial randomized (1:1) adults with body mass index ≥30 or ≥27 kg/m2 and at least one obesity-related complication (excluding diabetes), who achieved ≥5.0% weight reduction after a 12-week intensive lifestyle intervention, to tirzepatide maximum tolerated dose (10 or 15 mg) or placebo once weekly for 72 weeks (n = 579). The treatment regimen estimand assessed effects regardless of treatment adherence in the intention-to-treat population. The coprimary endpoint of additional mean per cent weight change from randomization to week 72 was met with changes of -18.4% (standard error (s.e.) 0.7) with tirzepatide and 2.5% (s.e. 1.0) with placebo (estimated treatment difference -20.8 percentage points (95% confidence interval (CI) -23.2%, -18.5%; P < 0.001). The coprimary endpoint of the percentage of participants achieving additional weight reduction ≥5% was met with 87.5% (s.e. 2.2) with tirzepatide and 16.5% (s.e. 3.0) with placebo achieving this threshold (odds ratio 34.6%; 95% CI 19.2%, 62.6%; P < 0.001). The most common adverse events with tirzepatide were gastrointestinal, with most being mild to moderate in severity. Tirzepatide provided substantial additional reduction in body weight in participants who had achieved ≥5.0% weight reduction with intensive lifestyle intervention. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04657016 .

Promise and unrealized potential: 10 years of the American Medical Association classifying obesity as a disease

Introduction

In June 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA), one of the most influential healthcare organizations in the United States, voted to recognize obesity as a disease. Many who supported this change believed that recognition by AMA of obesity as a disease would serve as a tipping point that would increase access to care, accelerate training and research on the prevention and treatment of obesity, and reduce weight stigma. On the 10-year anniversary of this vote, this perspective piece outlines key advances made, as well as unrealized potential, in improving the obesity public health landscape since the AMA's classification of obesity as a disease.

Methods

We draw on the empirical literature, as well as our experiences as clinical psychologists, a physician, and public health researchers specializing in obesity, to provide an overview of major advances and continued challenges in improving access to obesity treatment, accelerating prevention and training, and reducing weight stigma. We also outline important next steps to advance these goals.

Results

While several notable advancements have occurred, significant work remains to create equitable access to evidence-based treatments, bring research and training on obesity on par with its prevalence, and reduce the pervasiveness and harm of weight stigma.

Conclusion

The past decade has witnessed some advances with respect to access to care and attention, yet there is unrealized potential that awaits attention. Truly conceptualizing and treating obesity as a chronic disease requires a major paradigm shift.

The Neurobiology of Eating Behavior in Obesity: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets: A Report from the 23rd Annual Harvard Nutrition Obesity Symposium

Obesity is increasing at an alarming rate. The effectiveness of currently available strategies for the treatment of obesity (including pharmacologic, surgical, and behavioral interventions) is limited. Understanding the neurobiology of appetite and the important drivers of energy intake (EI) can lead to the development of more effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity. Appetite regulation is complex and is influenced by genetic, social, and environmental factors. It is intricately regulated by a complex interplay of endocrine, gastrointestinal, and neural systems. Hormonal and neural signals generated in response to the energy state of the organism and the quality of food eaten are communicated by paracrine, endocrine, and gastrointestinal signals to the nervous system. The central nervous system integrates homeostatic and hedonic signals to regulate appetite. Although there has been an enormous amount of research over many decades regarding the regulation of EI and body weight, research is only now yielding potentially effective treatment strategies for obesity. The purpose of this article is to summarize the key findings presented in June 2022 at the 23rd annual Harvard Nutrition Obesity Symposium entitled "The Neurobiology of Eating Behavior in Obesity: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets." Findings presented at the symposium, sponsored by NIH P30 Nutrition Obesity Research Center at Harvard, enhance our current understanding of appetite biology, including innovative techniques used to assess and systematically manipulate critical hedonic processes, which will shape future research and the development of therapeutics for obesity prevention and treatment.

Effects of dietary quality, physical activity and weight loss on glucose homeostasis in persons with and without prediabetes in the PREMIER trial

AIMS

We examined the contribution of changes in diet quality, physical activity and weight loss to improvements in insulin resistance (HOMA-IR index) and fasting glucose concentrations in a long-term behavioural trial. Furthermore, we compared the effects of lifestyle changes on glycaemic markers for individuals with and without prediabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The PREMIER trial was an 18-month parallel randomized trial of the impact of behavioural lifestyle interventions implementing lifestyle recommendations (dietary changes, physical activity, moderate weight loss) in adults with prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension. We analysed data on 685 men and women without diabetes. Data on body weight, fitness (treadmill test), dietary intake (24-h recalls) and glycaemic outcomes were collected at baseline and at 6 and 18 months. We used general linear models to assess the association between the exposure variables and glycaemic markers.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age was 49.9 (8.8) years, the mean (SD) body mass index was 32.9 (5.7) kg/m² , and 35% had prediabetes at baseline. Weight loss and improvements in fitness and diet quality were each significantly associated with lower HOMA-IR and fasting glucose concentrations at 6 and 18 months. Mediation analysis indicated that the effects of fitness and diet quality were partly mediated by weight loss, but significant direct effects of diet and fitness (independent of weight changes) were also observed. Furthermore, insulin sensitivity and fasting glucose improved significantly in participants with and without prediabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that behavioural lifestyle interventions can substantially improve glucose metabolism in persons with and without prediabetes and that the effects of diet quality and physical activity are partly independent of weight loss.

Disease Burden and Health Status among People with Severe Obesity Who Do Not Receive Bariatric Surgery: A Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to compare eligible individuals who were or were not treated with bariatric surgery and describe disease burden, treatment, and healthcare costs over 3 years in individuals who were not.

METHODS

Adults with obesity class II and comorbidities, or obesity class III, were identified in IQVIA Ambulatory EMR - US and PharMetrics® Plus administrative claims databases (January 1, 2007-December 31, 2017). Outcomes included demographics, BMI, comorbidities, and per patient per year (PPPY) healthcare costs.

RESULTS

Of 127,536 eligible individuals, 3,962 (3.1%) underwent surgery. The surgery group was younger, a greater proportion were women, and mean BMI and rates of some comorbidities (obstructive sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and depression) were higher than in the nonsurgery group. Mean healthcare costs PPPY in the baseline year were USD 13,981 in the surgery group and USD 12,024 in the nonsurgery group. In the nonsurgery group, incident comorbidities increased during follow-up. Mean total costs increased by 20.5% from baseline to year 3, mostly driven by an increase in pharmacy costs; however, fewer than 2% of these individuals initiated antiobesity medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals who did not undergo bariatric surgery showed a progressive worsening of health and increasing healthcare costs, indicating a large unmet need for access to clinically indicated obesity treatment.

Increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fields of nutrition and obesity: A road map to equity in academia

Research shows that a diverse faculty improves academic, clinical, and research outcomes in higher education. Despite that, persons in minority groups, usually categorized by race or ethnicity, are underrepresented in academia (URiA). The Nutrition Obesity Research Centers (NORCs), supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, hosted workshops on five separate days in September and October 2020. NORCs convened these workshops to identify barriers and facilitators for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and provide specific recommendations to improve DEI within obesity and nutrition for individuals from URiA groups. Recognized experts on DEI presented each day, after which the NORCs conducted breakout sessions with key stakeholders who engage in nutrition and obesity research. The breakout session groups included early-career investigators, professional societies, and academic leadership. The consensus from the breakout sessions was that glaring inequities affect URiA in nutrition and obesity, particularly related to recruitment, retention, and advancement. Recommendations from the breakout sessions to improve DEI across academia focused on six themes: (1) recruitment, (2) retention, (3) advancement, (4) intersectionality of multiple challenges (e.g., being Black and a woman), (5) funding agencies, and (6) implementation of strategies to address problems related to DEI.

Increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fields of nutrition and obesity: A roadmap to equity in academia

Research shows that a diverse faculty improves academic, clinical, and research outcomes in higher education. Despite that, persons in minority groups, usually categorized by race or ethnicity, are underrepresented in academia (URiA). The Nutrition Obesity Research Centers (NORCs), supported by the NIDDK, hosted workshops on five separate days in September and October 2020. NORCs convened these workshops to identify barriers and facilitators for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and provide specific recommendations to improve DEI within obesity and nutrition for individuals from URiA groups. Recognized experts on DEI presented each day, after which the NORCs conducted breakout sessions with key stakeholders who engage in nutrition and obesity research. The breakout session groups included early-career investigators, professional societies, and academic leadership. The consensus from the breakout sessions was that glaring inequities affect URiA in nutrition and obesity, particularly related to recruitment, retention, and advancement. Recommendations from the breakout sessions to improve DEI across the academe focused on six themes: (1) recruitment, (2) retention, (3) advancement, (4) intersectionality of multiple challenges (e.g., being Black and a woman), (5) funding agencies, and (6) implementation of strategies to address problems related to DEI.

Racial and ethnic representation among a sample of nutrition- and obesity-focused professional organizations in the United States

OBJECTIVE

Obesity is a chronic disease that disproportionately affects individuals from nonmajority racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Research shows that individuals from minority racial/ethnic backgrounds consider it important to have access to providers from diverse backgrounds. Health care providers and scientists from minority racial/ethnic groups are more likely than their non-Hispanic White counterparts to treat or conduct research on patients from underrepresented groups. The objective of this study was to characterize the racial/ethnic diversity of nutrition- and obesity-focused professional organizations in the United States.

METHODS

This study assessed race/ethnicity data from several obesity-focused national organizations including The Obesity Society, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), the American Society for Nutrition, and the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). Each organization was queried via emailed survey to provide data on racial/ethnic representation among their membership in the past 5 years and among elected presidents from 2010 to 2020.

RESULTS

Two of the three professional societies queried did not systematically track race/ethnicity data at the time of query. Limited tracking data available from AND show underrepresentation of Black (2.6%), Asian (3.9%), Latinx (3.1%), Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (1.3%), or indigenous (American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0.3%) individuals compared with the US population. Underrepresentation of racial/ethnic minorities was also reported for ABOM diplomates (Black: 6.0%, Latinx: 5.0%, Native American: 0.2%). Only AND reported having racial/ethnic diversity (20%) among the organization's presidents within the previous decade (2010-2020).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that (1) standardized tracking of race and ethnicity data is needed to fully assess diversity, equity, and inclusion, and (2) work is needed to increase the diversity of membership and leadership at the presidential level within obesity- and nutrition-focused professional organizations. A diverse cadre of obesity- and nutrition-focused health care professionals is needed to further improve nutrition-related health outcomes, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and undernutrition, in this country.

Racial and ethnic representation among a sample of nutrition- and obesity-focused professional organizations in the United States

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a chronic disease that disproportionately affects individuals from nonmajority racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Research shows that individuals from minority racial/ethnic backgrounds consider it important to have access to providers from diverse backgrounds. Health care providers and scientists from minority racial/ethnic groups are more likely than non-Hispanic whites to treat or conduct research on patients from underrepresented groups.

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the racial/ethnic diversity of nutrition- and obesity-focused professional organizations in the United States.

METHODS

This study assessed race/ethnicity data from several obesity-focused national organizations including The Obesity Society, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), the American Society for Nutrition, and the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). Each organization was queried via emailed survey to provide data on racial/ethnic representation among their membership in the past 5 y and among elected presidents from 2010 to 2020.

RESULTS

Two of the 3 professional societies queried did not systematically track race/ethnicity data at the time of query. Limited tracking data available from AND show underrepresentation of black (2.6%), Asian (3.9%), Latinx (3.1%), Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: (1.3%), or indigenous (American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0.3%) individuals compared with the US population. Underrepresentation of racial/ethnic minorities was also reported for ABOM diplomates (black: 6.0%, Latinx: 5.0%, Native American: 0.2%). Only AND reported having racial/ethnic diversity (20%) among the organization's presidents within the previous decade (2010-2020).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that 1) standardized tracking of race and ethnicity data is needed to fully assess diversity, equity, and inclusion, and 2) work is needed to increase the diversity of membership and leadership at the presidential level within obesity- and nutrition-focused professional organizations. A diverse cadre of obesity- and nutrition-focused health care professionals is needed to further improve nutrition-related health outcomes, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and undernutrition, in this country.

Dietary Patterns and All-Cause Mortality: A NESR Systematic Review

Objectives

To inform the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) identified important public health questions to be examined by the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The Committee conducted a systematic review with support from USDA's Nutrition Evidence Systematic Review (NESR) team to answer the following question: What is the relationship between dietary patterns consumed and all-cause mortality?

Methods

The Committee developed protocols that described how they would use NESR's systematic review methodology to examine the evidence related to dietary patterns and all-cause mortality. NESR librarians conducted a literature search. NESR analysts dual-screened the results using pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify articles published between 2000 and 2019 that evaluated dietary patterns and all-cause mortality. NESR analysts extracted data and assessed risk of bias of included studies. The Committee synthesized the evidence, developed conclusion statements, and graded the strength of the evidence underlying the conclusion statements.

Results

This review included one hundred and fifty-three studies, which were well-designed and conducted using rigorous methods, with low or moderate risks of bias. Precision, directness, and generalizability were demonstrated across the body of evidence. Results across studies were highly consistent in the foods and beverages included in the dietary patterns associated with reduced ACM risk. Robustness of results were confirmed by analyses with confounding factors.

Conclusions

Strong evidence demonstrates that dietary patterns in adults and older adults characterized by vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains, unsaturated vegetable oils, and fish, lean meat or poultry when meat was included, are associated with decreased risk of all-cause mortality. These patterns were also relatively low in red and processed meat, high-fat dairy, and refined carbohydrates or sweets. Some of these dietary patterns also included alcoholic beverages in moderation. (Grade: Strong)

Funding Sources

USDA, Food and Nutrition Service, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Alexandria, VA.

Changes in the Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) Among Obese Older Adults After a 12-Month Exercise and Diet Intervention

Objectives

The Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) was developed to estimate adipose tissue dysfunction as well as visceral fat distribution. In an ancillary analysis of the CROSSROADS Study (clinicaltrials.gov #NCT00955903), this study investigated the effects of exercise with and without intentional energy restriction on VAI changes among older adults with obesity.

Methods

Participants (n = 163, 37.4% male, 70.3 ± 4.7 years) were randomized to the following groups: exercise only, exercise + nutrient-dense weight maintenance diet, and exercise + nutrient-dense energy restriction of 500 kcal/d. Visceral adiposity determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), anthropometrics, and cardiometabolic biomarkers were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Waist circumference, body mass index, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were used to compute VAI at both time points. Data were analyzed utilizing Spearman's correlations and general linear models to determine differences among groups following adjustment for covariates.

Results

Among all participants, significant correlations were observed between VAI and glucose, insulin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and the adiponectin: leptin ratio at baseline (r = 0.343, P &lt; 0.001; r = 0.363, P &lt; 0.001; r = 0.200, P = 0.011; r = −0.246, P = 0.002, respectively). DXA and MRI measures of visceral adiposity were not significantly correlated with VAI. Upon completion of the 12-month study period, there were significant differences in VAI among groups [F (2,137) = 5.957, P = 0.003)]. Post hoc analysis revealed that VAI was significantly lower in the exercise + nutrient-dense energy restriction group compared to the exercise only group (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Results suggest that VAI may be an adequate measure of adipose tissue dysfunction, yet its ability to estimate levels of visceral adiposity warrants further investigation to determine clinical utility. Nonetheless, results suggest that an exercise + nutrient-dense energy restriction intervention may reduce VAI among older adults with obesity.

Funding Sources

NIH.

Dietary Patterns and Bone Health: A NESR Systematic Review

Objectives

To inform the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, USDA and HHS identified important public health questions to be examined by the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The Committee conducted a systematic review with support from USDA's Nutrition Evidence Systematic Review (NESR) team to answer the question: What is the relationship between dietary patterns consumed and bone health?

Methods

The Committee developed protocols that described how they would use NESR's systematic review methodology to examine the evidence. NESR librarians conducted a literature search, and NESR analysts dual-screened the results using pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify articles published between 2014 and 2019 that evaluated dietary patterns and bone health, which updates an existing review of evidence from 2000 to 2014. NESR analysts extracted data and assessed risk of bias of included studies. The Committee synthesized the evidence, developed conclusion statements, and graded the strength of the evidence underlying the conclusion statements.

Results

This systematic review update includes seven prospective cohort studies in adults and two in children, in addition to the thirteen studies included in the existing review. Most studies had few risks of bias, with good consistency, directness, precision and generalizability. Results from studies in adults were consistent in the foods and beverages in the dietary patterns associated with reduced fracture risk. Based on this new evidence in adults, the Committee updated the grade from limited to moderate. Evidence in children remains insufficient.

Conclusions

Moderate evidence indicates that a dietary pattern higher in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and fish, and lower in meats (particularly processed meats), sugar sweetened beverages, and sweets is associated with favorable bone health outcomes in adults, primarily decreased risk of hip fracture. (Grade: Adults – Moderate) Insufficient evidence is available to determine the relationship between dietary patterns consumed during childhood and bone health. (Grade: Children – Grade not assignable)

Funding Sources

USDA, Food and Nutrition Service, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Alexandria, VA.

Weight Loss and Maintenance Related to the Mechanism of Action of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with many complications. Weight loss of 5-15% can improve many obesity-related complications. Despite the benefits of weight reduction, there are many challenges in losing weight and maintaining long-term weight loss. Pharmacotherapy can help people with obesity achieve and maintain their target weight loss, thereby reducing the risk of obesity-related complications. The prevalence of obesity in the USA has been increasing over the past few decades, and despite the availability of approved anti-obesity medications (AOMs), people with obesity may not be accessing or receiving treatment at levels consistent with the disease prevalence. Reasons for low levels of initiation and long-term use of AOMs may include reluctance of public health and medical organizations to recognize obesity as a disease, lack of reimbursement, provider inexperience, and misperceptions about the efficacy and safety of available treatments. This article aims to inform primary care providers about the mechanism of action of one class of AOMs, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), in weight loss and longer-term maintenance of weight loss, and the efficacy and safety of this treatment class. GLP-1RA therapy was initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Owing to their effectiveness in reducing body weight, once-daily subcutaneous administration of liraglutide 3.0 mg has been approved, and once-weekly subcutaneous administration of semaglutide 2.4 mg is being investigated in phase III trials, for obesity management. Considerations regarding adverse effects and contraindications for different drug classes are provided to help guide treatment decision-making when considering pharmacotherapy for weight management in patients with obesity.

Similar weight loss and maintenance in African American and White women in the Improving Weight Loss (ImWeL) trial

Objective: African Americans (AA) are often underrepresented and tend to lose less weight than White participants during the intensive phase of behavioral obesity treatment. Some evidence suggests that AA women experience better maintenance of lost weight than White women, however, additional research on the efficacy of extended care programs (i.e. continued contacts to support the maintenance of lost weight) is necessary to better understand these differences.Methods: The influence of race on initial weight loss, the likelihood of achieving ≥5% weight reduction (i.e. extended care eligibility), the maintenance of lost weight and extended care program efficacy was examined in 269 AA and White women (62.1% AA) participating in a 16-month group-based weight management program. Participants achieving ≥5% weight reduction during the intensive phase (16 weekly sessions) were randomized to a clustered campaign extended care program (12 sessions delivered in three, 4-week clusters) or self-directed control.Results: In adjusted models, race was not associated with initial weight loss (p = 0.22) or the likelihood of achieving extended care eligibility (odds ratio 0.64, 95% CI [0.29, 1.38]). AA and White women lost -7.13 ± 0.39 kg and -7.62 ± 0.43 kg, respectively, during initial treatment. There were no significant differences in weight regain between AA and White women (p = 0.64) after adjusting for covariates. Clustered campaign program participants (AA: -6.74 ± 0.99 kg, White: -6.89 ± 1.10 kg) regained less weight than control (AA: -5.15 ± 0.99 kg, White: -4.37 ± 1.04 kg), equating to a 2.12 kg (p = 0.03) between-group difference after covariate adjustments.Conclusions: Weight changes and extended care eligibility were comparable among all participants. The clustered campaign program was efficacious for AA and White women. The high representation and retention of AA participants may have contributed to these findings.

Changes in Cardiometabolic Risk Among Obese Older Adults After a 12-Month Exercise and Diet Intervention

Objectives

Obesity imposes risk to cardiometabolic health; however, intentional weight loss in obese older adults remains controversial. Using data from the CROSSROADS Study (clinicaltrials.gov #NCT00955903), this ancillary study investigated effects of exercise with and without intentional weight loss on changes in cardiometabolic risk assessed by four risk-scoring tools.

Methods

Participants (n = 134, 39% male, 23% African American, 70.2 ± 4.7 y) were randomized to exercise (n = 48), exercise + nutrient-dense weight maintenance diet (n = 44), or exercise + nutrient-dense caloric restriction of 500 kcals/day (n = 42). The following risk scores were calculated using baseline and 12-month data: Framingham risk assessment, Cardiometabolic Disease Staging (CMDS), metabolic syndrome classification by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and metabolic syndrome classification by the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III). Generalized Estimating Equations were employed to determine differences between groups with ethnicity, sex, and age as covariates.

Results

Group-time interaction was not significant in application of IDF or ATPIII. Group-time interaction was significant for Framingham and CMDS (P = 0.005 and 0.041, respectively). Upon post-hoc analysis, significant within-group improvements in Framingham scores were observed for exercise + weight maintenance (P &lt; 0.001, r = −1.682) and exercise + weight loss (P = 0.020, r = −0.881). In analysis of between-group differences in Framingham scores, a significant decrease was observed in the exercise + weight maintenance group (P = 0.001, r = −1.723) compared to the exercise group. For CMDS, the exercise + weight loss group had significant within-group improvements (P = 0.023, r = - 0.102). For between-group differences in CMDS, the exercise + weight loss group showed significant risk score reduction (P = 0.012, r = −0.142) compared to the exercise group.

Conclusions

Risk assessment by Framingham and CMDS showed greater sensitivity to change in cardiometabolic risk factors. Results suggest obese older adults can lower cardiometabolic risk by engaging in exercise + weight maintenance or exercise + weight loss by moderate caloric restriction.

Funding Sources

R01AG033094 NIA, K07AG043588 NIA, P30DK056336 NIDDK.

Safety and Effectiveness of Longer-Term Phentermine Use: Clinical Outcomes from an Electronic Health Record Cohort

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to study weight loss and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or death associated with longer-term phentermine use.

METHODS

Using electronic health record data, 13,972 adults were identified with a first phentermine fill in 2010 to 2015, creating exposure categories according to a patient's duration of use (referent: ≤ 3 months). Multivariable linear models were used to compare percent weight loss across categories at 6, 12, and 24 months, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare risk of composite CVD or death, up to 3 years after starting phentermine.

RESULTS

The cohort was 84% female and 45% white, with a mean (SD) baseline age 43.5 (10.7) years and BMI of 37.8 (7.2) kg/m² . In multivariable models, longer-term users of phentermine experienced more weight loss; patients using continuously for > 12 months lost 7.4% more than the referent group at 24 months (P < 0.001). The composite CVD or death outcome was rare (0.3%, 41 events), with no significant difference in hazard ratios between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater weight loss without increased risk of incident CVD or death was observed in patients using phentermine monotherapy for longer than 3 months. Despite the limitations of the observational design, this study supports the effectiveness and safety of longer-term phentermine use for low-risk individuals.

Comparison of an alternative schedule of extended care contacts to a self-directed control: a randomized trial of weight loss maintenance

BACKGROUND

Behavioral interventions for obesity produce clinically meaningful weight loss, but weight regain following treatment is common. Extended care programs attenuate weight regain and improve weight loss maintenance. However, less is known about the most effective ways to deliver extended care, including contact schedules.

METHODS

We compared the 12-month weight regain of an extended care program utilizing a non-conventional, clustered campaign treatment schedule and a self-directed program among individuals who previously achieved ≥5% weight reductions. Participants (N = 108; mean age = 51.6 years; mean weight = 92.6 kg; 52% African American; 95% female) who achieved ≥5% weight loss during an initial 16-week behavioral obesity treatment were randomized into a 2-arm, 12-month extended care trial. A clustered campaign condition included 12 group-based visits delivered in three, 4-week clusters. A self-directed condition included provision of the same printed intervention materials but no additional treatment visits. The study was conducted in a U.S. academic medical center from 2011 to 2015.

RESULTS

Prior to randomization, participants lost an average of -7.55 ± 3.04 kg. Participants randomized to the 12-month clustered campaign program regained significantly less weight (0.35 ± 4.62 kg) than self-directed participants (2.40 ± 3.99 kg), which represented a significant between-group difference of 2.28 kg (p = 0.0154) after covariate adjustments. This corresponded to maintaining 87% and 64% of lost weight in the clustered campaign and self-directed conditions, respectively, which was a significant between-group difference of 29% maintenance of lost weight after covariate adjustments, p = 0.0396.

CONCLUSIONS

In this initial test of a clustered campaign treatment schedule, this novel approach effectively promoted 12-month maintenance of lost weight. Future trials should directly compare the clustered campaigns with conventional (e.g., monthly) extended care schedules.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02487121 . Registered 06/26/2015 (retrospectively registered).

Meal Timing and Frequency: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Eating patterns are increasingly varied. Typical breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals are difficult to distinguish because skipping meals and snacking have become more prevalent. Such eating styles can have various effects on cardiometabolic health markers, namely obesity, lipid profile, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. In this statement, we review the cardiometabolic health effects of specific eating patterns: skipping breakfast, intermittent fasting, meal frequency (number of daily eating occasions), and timing of eating occasions. Furthermore, we propose definitions for meals, snacks, and eating occasions for use in research. Finally, data suggest that irregular eating patterns appear less favorable for achieving a healthy cardiometabolic profile. Intentional eating with mindful attention to the timing and frequency of eating occasions could lead to healthier lifestyle and cardiometabolic risk factor management.

Efficacy and safety of liraglutide 3.0 mg for weight management are similar across races: subgroup analysis across the SCALE and phase II randomized trials

The efficacy and safety of liraglutide 3.0 mg versus placebo, as adjunct to diet and exercise, was evaluated in racial subgroups. This post hoc analysis of pooled data from five double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trials was conducted in 5325 adults with either a body mass index (BMI) ≥27 kg/m(2) plus ≥1 comorbidity or a BMI ≥30 kg/m(2). Statistical interaction tests evaluated possible treatment effect differences between racial subgroups: white (4496, 84.4%), black/African-American (550, 10.3%), Asian (168, 3.2%) and other (111, 2.1%). Effects of liraglutide 3.0 mg on weight loss, associated metabolic effects and safety profile were generally consistent across racial subgroups. All achieved statistically significant mean weight loss at end-of-treatment with liraglutide 3.0 mg versus placebo: white 7.7% versus 2.3%, black/African-American 6.3% versus 1.4%, Asian 6.3% versus 2.5%, other 7.3% versus 0.49%. Treatment effects on weight and cardiovascular risk markers generally showed no dependence on race (interaction test p > 0.05). Adverse events were similar across racial subgroups.

Longitudinal association of measures of adiposity with serum antioxidant concentrations in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The relationship between obesity and circulating levels of antioxidants is poorly understood. Most studies that have examined the association of adiposity with blood or tissue concentrations of antioxidant micronutrients have been cross-sectional, and few have compared the associations for indices of overall obesity and central obesity. Our aim was to prospectively examine the longitudinal association of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist circumference-height ratio (WCHtR) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) with major serum antioxidants in a population of postmenopausal women.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

We used a subsample of participants in the Women's Health Initiative aged 50-79 years at entry with available fasting blood samples and anthropometric measurements obtained at multiple time points over 12.8 years of follow-up (N=2672). Blood samples were used to measure α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein+zeaxanthin, α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol and retinol at baseline, and at years 1, 3 and 6. We used mixed-effects linear regression analyses to examine associations between anthropometric measures and serum antioxidants at baseline and over time, controlling for covariates.

RESULTS

In longitudinal analyses, carotenoids, and particularly β-carotene, were strongly and inversely associated with BMI, WC and WCHtR and less so with WHR. α-Tocopherol showed a strong positive association with WHR but not with other anthropometric measures, whereas γ-tocopherol was positively and strongly associated with BMI, WC, WCHtR and less so with WHR. Retinol was positively associated with WHR. The inverse association of several carotenoids with anthropometric measures was stronger in never and former smokers compared with current smokers and in women without the metabolic syndrome. The inverse association of carotenoids with obesity measures may reflect reduced micronutrient concentrations owing to inflammation associated with obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, the strongest observed associations between anthropometric variables and micronutrients were an inverse association of WC with serum β-carotene and a positive association of WC with γ-tocopherol.

Obesity in the US: what is the best role for primary care?

The increasing prevalence of obesity together with projected increases in diabetes over the next 20-30 years will put a substantial strain on the finances and resources of the US healthcare system. The best opportunity for broad scale treatment of obesity may lie in the primary care setting. This review assesses the evidence on the efficacy of treatment for obesity delivered in primary care in the United States. It summarizes an earlier systematic review, recent obesity treatment guidelines, and subsequent US based trials with a minimum follow-up of six months in which at least one member of a primary care team helped deliver comprehensive behavioral obesity treatment to adults with overweight or obesity. Overall, the evidence suggests that obesity treatment delivered in primary care has limited effectiveness. Questions remain about the optimal role of the primary care provider in the treatment of obesity and the prevention of weight gain, as well as potential systems approaches to the treatment of obesity.

Differences in weight loss and health outcomes among African Americans and whites in multicentre trials

The efficacy of behavioural lifestyle interventions (BLI) for weight loss and prevention and treatment of diabetes and hypertension is well established but may vary among racial/ethnic subgroups. This report reviews literature from 1990 to 2012 to determine if outcomes were similar among African Americans (AA) and whites participating in multicentre BLIs funded by the National Institutes of Health. We identified seven relevant trials that reported subgroup analyses for AA. On average, AA lost less weight at 6 months (AA: -1.6 to -7.5 kg; whites: -3.8 to -8.2 kg), but also had less or similar weight regain compared with whites. There were no reported differences between races in diabetes incidence. Three analyses reported no differences in blood pressure; however, a fourth reported that AA women were the only group that did not experience a significant change in blood pressure. Despite increased attention to cultural relevance, race-specific differences in weight loss persist in trials spanning 20 years; however, risk factor modification was similar across race/ethnic groups. Additional research is needed to understand the mechanisms of risk factor modification, and potential for weight change to promote even greater risk factor modification for AA than has been observed to date.

Proceedings from Duke resistant hypertension think tank

To identify patients at increased risk for cardiovascular outcomes, apparent treatment resistant hypertension (aTRH) is defined as having a blood pressure (BP) above goal despite the use of ≥3 antihypertensive therapies of different classes at maximally tolerated doses, ideally including a diuretic. In light of growing scientific interest in the treatment of this group, a multistakeholder think tank was convened to discuss the current state of knowledge, improve the care of these patients, and identify appropriate study populations for future observational and randomized trials in the field. Although recent epidemiologic studies in selected populations estimate that the prevalence of aTRH is 10% to 15% of hypertensive patients, further large-scale observational studies will be needed to better elucidate risk factors. To spur the development of therapies for aTRH, the development of an "aTRH" label for pharmacologic and device therapies with a developmental pathway including treatment added to the use of existing therapies is favored. Although demonstration of adequate BP lowering should be sufficient to gain Food and Drug Administration approval for therapies targeting aTRH, assessment of improvement in quality of life and cardiovascular outcomes is also desirable and considered in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services coverage decisions. Device trials under the aTRH label will need uniform and consistent processes for defining appropriate patient populations as well as postapproval registries assessing both long-term safety and duration of responses. Finally, patients with aTRH are likely to benefit from evaluation by a hypertension team to assure proper patient identification, diagnostic work-up, and therapeutic management before consideration of advanced or novel therapies to lower BP.

Calorie restriction in overweight seniors: response of older adults to a dieting study: the CROSSROADS randomized controlled clinical trial

We conducted a study designed to evaluate whether the benefits of intentional weight loss exceed the potential risks in a group of community-dwelling obese older adults who were at increased risk for cardiometabolic disease. The CROSSROADS trial used a prospective randomized controlled design to compare the effects of changes in diet composition alone or combined with weight loss with an exercise only control intervention on body composition and adipose tissue deposition (Specific Aim #1: To compare the effects of changes in diet composition alone or combined with weight loss with an exercise only control intervention on body composition, namely visceral adipose tissue), cardiometabolic disease risk (Specific Aim #2: To compare the effects of a change in diet composition alone or combined with weight loss with an exercise only control intervention on cardiometabolic disease risk), and functional status and quality of life (Specific Aim #3: To compare the effects of a change in diet composition alone or combined with weight loss with an exercise only control intervention on functional status and quality of life). Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Exercise Only (Control) Intervention, Exercise + Diet Quality + Weight Maintenance Intervention, or Exercise + Diet Quality + Weight Loss Intervention. CROSSROADS utilized a lifestyle intervention approach consisting of exercise, dietary, and behavioral components. The development and implementation of the CROSSROADS protocol, including a description of the methodology, detailing specific elements of the lifestyle intervention, assurances of treatment fidelity, and participant retention; outcome measures and adverse event monitoring; as well as unique data management features of the trial results, are presented in this article.

Sex, weight status, and chronic kidney disease among African Americans: the Jackson Heart Study

BACKGROUND

Obesity has been shown to have implications for chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, it has received minimal attention from scientists studying CKD among African Americans.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine the manner in which weight status has implications for CKD among this group through analysis of data drawn from the Jackson Heart Study (JHS).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of a single-site longitudinal population-based cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

The data for this study were drawn from the baseline examination of the Jackson Heart Study (JHS). The analytic cohort consisted of 3430 African American men and women (21-84 years of age) living in the tricounty area of the Jackson, Mississippi metropolitan areas with complete data to determine CKD status.

MAIN MEASUREMENTS

The primary dependent variable was CKD (defined as the presence of albuminuria or reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min per 1.73 m(2)). Weight status, the primary predictor, was a 4-category measure based on body mass index.

RESULTS

Associations were explored through bivariable analyses and multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusting for CKD, weight status, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease risk factors as well as demographic factors. The prevalence of CKD in the JHS was 20%. The proportion of overweight, class I, and class II obese individuals was 32.5%, 26.9%, and 26.2% respectively. In the pooled model, weight status was not found to be associated with CKD; however, subgroup analysis revealed that class II obesity was associated with CKD among men (odds ratio, 2.37; confidence interval, 1.34-4.19) but not among women (odds ratio, 1.32; confidence interval, 0.88-1.98). The relationship between CKD prevalence and diabetes and CKD prevalence and hypertension varied by sex and differed across weight categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight status has implications for CKD among the JHS participants, and this study underscores the need for additional research investigating the relationship between weight status, sex, and CKD among African Americans.

Vitamin D and calcium-sensing receptor polymorphisms differentially associate with resting energy expenditure in peripubertal children

Given that calcium metabolism is influenced by genes and is tightly linked to energy-utilizing pathways, this study evaluated the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and calcium-sensing receptor (CASR) with resting energy expenditure (REE). In 273 boys and girls, 7-12 years of age, cross-sectional REE was measured via indirect calorimetry, body composition by DXA, and dietary measures by 24-h recall. SNPs for VDR Cdx-2 (rs11568820) and CASR A986S (rs1801725) were genotyped using the Illumina Golden Gate assay. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine the association between SNPs and REE. African American carriers of the 'A' VDR Cdx2 allele had increased levels of REE in the overall sample, and this association was apparent among participants with an adiposity level of <25 % and 30 % body fat in males and females, respectively. For CASR, an association between carriers of the 'A' allele and REE was observed only in those in the upper median of calcium intake. VDR and CASR variants are associated with REE in children and are influenced by levels of calcium intake and adiposity. Our results bring awareness to mechanisms underlying the regulation of REE and biological and dietary influential factors.

Sex, weight status, and chronic kidney disease among African Americans: the Jackson Heart Study

BACKGROUND

Obesity has been shown to have implications for chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, it has received minimal attention from scientists studying CKD among African Americans.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine the manner in which weight status has implications for CKD among this group through analysis of data drawn from the Jackson Heart Study (JHS).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of a single-site longitudinal population-based cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

The data for this study were drawn from the baseline examination of the Jackson Heart Study (JHS). The analytic cohort consisted of 3430 African American men and women (21-84 years of age) living in the tricounty area of the Jackson, Mississippi metropolitan areas with complete data to determine CKD status.

MAIN MEASUREMENTS

The primary dependent variable was CKD (defined as the presence of albuminuria or reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min per 1.73 m(2)). Weight status, the primary predictor, was a 4-category measure based on body mass index.

RESULTS

Associations were explored through bivariable analyses and multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusting for CKD, weight status, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease risk factors as well as demographic factors. The prevalence of CKD in the JHS was 20%. The proportion of overweight, class I, and class II obese individuals was 32.5%, 26.9%, and 26.2% respectively. In the pooled model, weight status was not found to be associated with CKD; however, subgroup analysis revealed that class II obesity was associated with CKD among men (odds ratio, 2.37; confidence interval, 1.34-4.19) but not among women (odds ratio, 1.32; confidence interval, 0.88-1.98). The relationship between CKD prevalence and diabetes and CKD prevalence and hypertension varied by sex and differed across weight categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight status has implications for CKD among the JHS participants, and this study underscores the need for additional research investigating the relationship between weight status, sex, and CKD among African Americans.

Race and region have independent and synergistic effects on dietary intakes in black and white women

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined the effects of race and region on dietary intakes and the evidence on racial and regional disparities among women is limited. We aimed to examine whether race and region were associated with nutrient intakes among black and white women living in the Stroke Belt, Stroke Buckle, and Other regions in the United States. We hypothesized that significant differences would be observed among population sub-groups and that the effects of race on dietary intakes would vary across regions.

METHODS

This study included dietary data from 12,105 women from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke study (United States). Dietary data were collected using the Block 98 food frequency questionnaire.

RESULTS

Blacks consumed 1.05% lower energy from saturated fat (95% CI: -0.95, -1.16), and intakes were also lower in the Buckle (β = -0.20; 95% CI: -0.08, -0.32) and Belt (β = -0.35; 95% CI: -0.24, -0.46) compared to the Other regions. Within each region, sodium, potassium, and magnesium intakes were all lower among black women compared to white women (P <0.05 for all); intakes were significantly lower among blacks living in the Belt and Buckle compared to those in the Other regions. Significant interactions between race and region were detected for trans fat, calcium, and cholesterol (P <0.05 for all), where black women in the Other regions consumed the lowest dietary cholesterol and calcium while black women in the Belt consumed the lowest trans fat.

CONCLUSIONS

Race and region were significantly associated with nutrient intakes in a large study of black and non-Hispanic white women in the United States. Intakes of trans fat, calcium, and cholesterol among black and white women differed across regions. Race and region thus interact to impact dietary intakes, and their effects may be mediated by such factors as the broader food environment and food availability as well as food customs and culture. Race, region, and their correlates should therefore be considered together when examining diet and disease associations and planning dietary advice for population sub-groups.

Abstract 145: Dietary Fish and Omega-3 Intake and Risk of Ischemic Stroke: The REGARDS Study

Background: We previously reported that persons living in the Stroke Belt were more likely than non-Belt persons to consume ≥2 weekly servings of fried fish but less likely to meet the AHA recommendation of ≥2 weekly servings of nonfried fish. The objective of this report was to evaluate whether the differential consumption of fish contributes to the geographic and racial disparities in stroke.

Methods: REGARDS is a national cohort study that recruited 30,239 participants (2003-2007) ≥45 years with oversampling from the southeastern Stroke Belt and African Americans (AAs). Centralized phone interviewers obtained medical histories and in-home examiners obtained physical measures. Dietary data were collected using the self-administered Block98 Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). After excluding the top and bottom 1% of total energy intake, individuals who did not answer 85% or more of the FFQ, and those with a history of stroke or TIA at baseline, the analysis cohort included 20,480 participants. Incident stroke was defined as first stroke occurrence over 5.0 years of follow-up.

Results: There were 549 incident strokes including 501 ischemic strokes. After excluding hemorrhagic strokes and stratifying by race, white participants eating ≥2 servings per week (vs <2/week) of fried fish were at a significantly increased risk of ischemic stroke after adjusting for demographic, SES, physical activity, BMI, caloric intake and Framingham stroke risk score factors (HR 2.80, 95% CI 1.12 to 6.96); there was no association found among AAs. Compared with participants in the lowest quartile of dietary n-3 intake (mean intake 0.74 g/day), participants in the highest quartile (mean intake 2.8 g/day) had a 29% reduction in ischemic stroke risk after adjusting for demographic factors and caloric intake (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.97); when stratified by race, AAs in the highest quartile of n-3 intake had a 49% reduction in ischemic stroke risk compared with the lowest quartile after adjusting for demographic factors and caloric intake (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.88).

Conclusions: Fried fish intake of ≥2 servings (vs <2) per week was associated with more than twice the risk of ischemic stroke among whites. High dietary n-3 intake may reduce the risk of ischemic stroke especially among AAs and warrants further study in primary stroke prevention. Differential consumption of fish may contribute to geographic and racial disparities in ischemic stroke.

Race and region are associated with nutrient intakes among black and white men in the United States

Stroke mortality rates and prevalence of several chronic diseases are higher in Southern populations and blacks in the US. This study examined the relationships of race (black, white) and region (Stroke Belt, Stroke Buckle, other) with selected nutrient intakes among black and white American men (n = 9229). The Block 98 FFQ assessed dietary intakes and multivariable linear regression analysis was used to examine whether race and region were associated with intakes of fiber, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and cholesterol. Race and region were significant predictors of most nutrient intakes. Black men consumed 1.00% lower energy from saturated fat compared with white men [multivariable-adjusted β: 1.00% (95% CI = -0.88, -1.13)]. A significant interaction between race and region was detected for trans fat (P < 0.0001), where intake was significantly lower among black men compared with white men only in the Stroke Belt [multivariable-adjusted β: -0.21 (95% CI = -0.11, -0.31)]. Among black men, intakes of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium were lower, whereas cholesterol was higher, compared with white men (P < 0.05 for all). Comparing regions, men in the Stroke Buckle had the lowest intakes of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and calcium compared with those in the Stroke Belt and other regions; men in both the Stroke Buckle and Stroke Belt had higher intakes of cholesterol compared with those in other regions (P < 0.005 for all). Given these observed differences in dietary intakes, more research is needed to understand if and how they play a role in the health disparities and chronic disease risks observed among racial groups and regions in the US.

Racial and geographic differences in fish consumption: the REGARDS study

BACKGROUND

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish have been shown to have favorable effects on platelet aggregation, blood pressure, lipid profile, endothelial function, and ischemic stroke risk, but there are limited data on racial and geographic differences in fish consumption.

METHODS

Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) is a national cohort study that recruited 30,239 participants age ≥45 years with oversampling from the southeastern Stroke Belt and Buckle and African Americans (AAs). Centralized phone interviewers obtained medical histories and in-home examiners measured weight and height. Dietary data for this cross-sectional analysis were collected using the self-administered Block98 Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Adequate intake of nonfried fish was defined as consumption of ≥2 servings per week based on American Heart Association guidelines. After excluding the top and bottom 1% of total energy intake and individuals who did not answer 85% or more of questions on the FFQ, the analysis included 21,675 participants.

RESULTS

Only 5,022 (23%) participants consumed ≥2 servings per week of nonfried fish. In multivariable analysis, factors associated with inadequate intake of nonfried fish included living in the Stroke Belt (vs non-Belt) (odds ratio [OR] 0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-0.90) and living in the Stroke Buckle (vs non-Belt) (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81-0.98); factors associated with ≥2 servings per week of fried fish included being AA (vs white) (OR 3.59, 95% CI 3.19-4.04), living in the Stroke Belt (vs non-Belt) (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.17-1.50), and living in the Stroke Buckle (vs non-Belt) (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.00-1.36).

CONCLUSIONS

Differential consumption of fish may contribute to the racial and geographic disparities in stroke.

Associations of dietary fat with albuminuria and kidney dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Diet represents a potentially important target for intervention in nephropathy, yet data on this topic are scarce.

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to investigate associations between dietary fats and early kidney disease.

DESIGN

We examined cross-sectional associations between dietary fats and the presence of high albuminuria (an established independent predictor of kidney function decline, cardiovascular disease, and mortality) or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL ⋅ min(-1) ⋅ 1.73 m(-2) at baseline in 19,256 participants of the REGARDS (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) study, an ongoing cohort study in US adults aged ≥45 y at time of enrollment. We used logistic regression to assess associations between quintiles of total fat and subtypes of dietary fat (saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and trans fat) and presence of high albuminuria or eGFR <60 mL ⋅ min(-1) ⋅ 1.73 m(-2).

RESULTS

After multivariable adjustment, only saturated fat intake was significantly associated with high albuminuria [for quintile 5 compared with quintile 1, odds ratio (OR): 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.66; P for trend = 0.04]. No significant associations between any type of fat and eGFR <60 mL · min(-1) · 1.73 m(-2) were observed. ORs between the highest quintile of saturated fat and eGFR <60 mL · min(-1) · 1.73 m(-2) varied by race with a borderline significant interaction term (ORs: 1.24 in whites compared with 0.74 in blacks; P for interaction = 0.05) in multivariable-adjusted models, but no other associations were significantly modified by race or diabetes status.

CONCLUSION

Higher saturated fat intake is significantly associated with the presence of high albuminuria, but neither total nor other subtypes of dietary fat are associated with high albuminuria or eGFR <60 mL · min(-1) · 1.73 m(-2).

Design considerations and rationale of a multi-center trial to sustain weight loss: the Weight Loss Maintenance Trial

BACKGROUND

The Weight Loss Maintenance Trial (WLM) is a multi-center, randomized, controlled trial that compares the effects of two 30-month maintenance interventions, i.e., Personal Contact (PC) and Interactive Technology (IT) to a self-directed usual care control group (SD), in overweight or obese individuals who are at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

PURPOSE

This paper provides an overview of the design and methods, and design considerations and lessons learned from this trial.

METHODS

All participants received a 6-month behavioral weight loss program consisting of weekly group sessions. Participants who lost 4 kg were randomized to one of three conditions (PC, IT, or SD). The PC condition provided monthly contacts with an interventionist primarily via telephone and quarterly face-to-face visits. The IT condition provided frequent, individualized contact through a tailored, website system. Both the PC and IT maintenance programs encouraged the DASH dietary pattern and employed theory-based behavioral techniques to promote maintenance.

RESULTS

Design considerations included choice of study population, frequency and type of intervention visits, and choice of primary outcome. Overweight or obese persons with CVD risk factors were studied. The pros and cons of studying this population while excluding others are presented. We studied intervention contact strategies that made fewer demands on participant time and travel, while providing frequent opportunities for interaction. The primary outcome variable for the trial was change in weight from randomization to end of follow-up (30 months).

LIMITATIONS

Limits to generalizability are discussed. Individuals in need of weight loss strategies may have been excluded due to barriers associated with internet use. Other participants may have been excluded secondary to a comorbid condition.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper highlights the design and methods of WLM and informs readers of discussions of critical issues and lessons learned from the trial.

Health belief model perceptions, knowledge of heart disease, and its risk factors in educated African-American women: an exploration of the relationships of socioeconomic status and age

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for African-American women in the United States. Although African-American women experience higher rates of heart disease with earlier onset and more severe consequences than White women do, they are not aware of their risk for the disease. The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been commonly used to guide preventive interventions in cardiovascular health. However, the HBM has not been evaluated for African-American women regarding its effectiveness. This study explored the perceptions of susceptibility and seriousness of heart disease, and the relationships between socioeconomic status (SES), age, and knowledge of heart disease and its risk factors among 194 educated African-American women from the southern United States. Participants did not perceive themselves to be at high risk for developing heart disease while perceiving heart disease as serious. African-American women who were older perceived heart disease to be more serious than their younger counterparts did. Older women and those with higher SES knew more about heart disease and risk factors. Neither SES nor age moderated the relationship between knowledge and perceived susceptibility or seriousness.

Effects of comprehensive lifestyle modification on diet, weight, physical fitness, and blood pressure control: 18-month results of a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

The main 6-month results from the PREMIER trial showed that comprehensive behavioral intervention programs improve lifestyle behaviors and lower blood pressure.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the 18-month effects of 2 multicomponent behavioral interventions versus advice only on hypertension status, lifestyle changes, and blood pressure.

DESIGN

Multicenter, 3-arm, randomized trial conducted from January 2000 through November 2002.

SETTING

4 clinical centers and a coordinating center.

PATIENTS

810 adult volunteers with prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension (systolic blood pressure, 120 to 159 mm Hg; diastolic blood pressure, 80 to 95 mm Hg).

INTERVENTIONS

A multicomponent behavioral intervention that implemented long-established recommendations ("established"); a multicomponent behavioral intervention that implemented the established recommendations plus the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet ("established plus DASH"); and advice only.

MEASUREMENTS

Lifestyle variables and blood pressure status. Follow-up for blood pressure measurement at 18 months was 94%.

RESULTS

Compared with advice only, both behavioral interventions statistically significantly reduced weight, fat intake, and sodium intake. The established plus DASH intervention also statistically significantly increased fruit, vegetable, dairy, fiber, and mineral intakes. Relative to the advice only group, the odds ratios for hypertension at 18 months were 0.83 (95% CI, 0.67 to 1.04) for the established group and 0.77 (CI, 0.62 to 0.97) for the established plus DASH group. Although reductions in absolute blood pressure at 18 months were greater for participants in the established and the established plus DASH groups than for the advice only group, the differences were not statistically significant.

LIMITATIONS

The exclusion criteria and the volunteer nature of this cohort may limit generalizability. Although blood pressure is a well-accepted risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the authors were not able to assess intervention effects on clinical cardiovascular events in this limited time and with this sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 18 months, persons with prehypertension and stage 1 hypertension can sustain multiple lifestyle modifications that improve control of blood pressure and could reduce the risk for chronic disease.

Prevalence of obesity in the United States

Obesity is a major public health problem in the United States. Data on measured heights and weights indicates that the prevalence of obesity has significantly increased among the US population over the past 30 years. Data collected from 1999 to 2002 estimates that nearly 1/3 of adults are obese (27.6% of men and 33.2% of women) and one in six children and adolescents is overweight. Increased prevalence of excessive weight is noted among all age, gender and racial/ethnic groups; however, disparities exist. There is a need for further research to better understand why these increases have occurred, why the observed disparities exist and how to reverse these trends.

Effects of diet and sodium intake on blood pressure: subgroup analysis of the DASH-sodium trial

BACKGROUND

Initial findings from the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)-Sodium Trial demonstrated that reduction of sodium intake in two different diets decreased blood pressure in participants with and without hypertension.

OBJECTIVE

To determine effects on blood pressure of reduced sodium intake and the DASH diet in additional subgroups.

DESIGN

Randomized feeding study.

SETTING

Four clinical centers and a coordinating center.

PARTICIPANTS

412 adults with untreated systolic blood pressure of 120 to 160 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure of 80 to 95 mm Hg.

INTERVENTION

Participants followed the DASH diet or a control (typical U.S.) diet for three consecutive 30-day feeding periods, during which sodium intake (50, 100, and 150 mmol/d at 2100 kcal) varied according to a randomly assigned sequence. Body weight was maintained.

MEASUREMENTS

Systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

RESULTS

In all subgroups, the DASH diet and reduced sodium intake were each associated with significant decreases in blood pressure; these two factors combined produced the greatest reductions. Among nonhypertensive participants who received the control diet, lower (vs. higher) sodium intake decreased blood pressure by 7.0/3.8 mm Hg in those older than 45 years of age (P < 0.001) and by 3.7/1.5 mm Hg in those 45 years of age or younger (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The DASH diet plus reduced sodium intake is recommended to control blood pressure in diverse subgroups.

DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is effective treatment for stage 1 isolated systolic hypertension

Use of the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods, significantly lowers blood pressure. Among the 459 participants in the DASH Trial, 72 had stage 1 isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) (systolic blood pressure, 140 to 159 mm Hg; diastolic blood pressure, <90 mm Hg). We examined the blood pressure response in these 72 participants to determine whether the DASH diet is an effective treatment for stage 1 ISH. After a 3-week run-in period on a typical American (control) diet, participants were randomly assigned for 8 weeks to 1 of 3 diets: a continuation of the control diet (n=25), a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (n=24), or the DASH diet (n=23). Sodium content was the same in the 3 diets, and caloric intake was adjusted during the trial to prevent weight change. Blood pressure was measured at baseline and at the end of the 8-week intervention period with standard sphygmomanometry. Use of the DASH diet significantly lowered systolic blood pressure compared with the control diet (-11.2 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, -6.1 to -16.2 mm Hg; P<0.001) and the fruits/vegetables diet (-8.0 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, -2.5 to -13.4 mm Hg; P<0.01). Overall, blood pressure in the DASH group fell from 146/85 to 134/82 mm Hg. Similar results were observed with 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure measurements. In the DASH diet group, 18 of 23 participants (78%) reduced their systolic blood pressure to <140 mm Hg, compared with 24% and 50% in the control and fruits/vegetables groups, respectively. Our results indicate that the DASH diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods, is effective as first-line therapy in stage 1 ISH.

Effects of dietary patterns on blood pressure: subgroup analysis of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of dietary patterns on blood pressure in subgroups.

METHODS

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) was a randomized controlled feeding study conducted at 4 academic medical centers. Participants were 459 adults with untreated systolic blood pressure less than 160 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure 80 to 95 mm Hg. For 3 weeks, participants were fed a "control" diet. They were then randomized to 8 weeks of (1) control diet; (2) a diet rich in fruits and vegetables; or (3) a combination diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods, and reduced in saturated fat, total fat, and cholesterol (the DASH combination diet). Weight and salt intake were held constant. Change in diastolic blood pressure was the primary outcome variable, and systolic blood pressure a secondary outcome. Subgroups analyzed included race, sex, age, body mass index, years of education, income, physical activity, alcohol intake, and hypertension status.

RESULTS

The combination diet significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in all subgroups (P<.008), and significantly lowered diastolic blood pressure (P<.01) in all but 2 subgroups. The fruits-and-vegetables diet also reduced blood pressure in the same subgroups, but to a lesser extent. The combination diet lowered systolic blood pressure significantly more in African Americans (6.8 mm Hg) than in whites (3.0 mm Hg), and in hypertensive subjects (11.4 mm Hg) than in nonhypertensive subjects (3.4 mm Hg) (P<.05 for both interactions).

CONCLUSIONS

The DASH combination diet, without sodium reduction or weight loss, significantly lowered blood pressure in virtually all subgroups examined, and was particularly effective in African Americans and those with hypertension. The DASH combination diet may be an effective strategy for preventing and treating hypertension in a broad cross section of the population, including segments of the population at highest risk for blood pressure-related cardiovascular disease.