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Anderson ML, Cox M, Al-Khatib SM, Nichol G, Thomas KL, Chan PS, Saha-Chaudhuri P, Fosbol EL, Eigel B, Clendenen B, Peterson ED. Rates of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in the United States. JAMA Intern Med 2014; 174:194-201. [PMID: 24247329 PMCID: PMC4279433 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.11320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Prompt bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) improves the likelihood of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Large regional variations in survival after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest have been noted. OBJECTIVES To determine whether regional variations in county-level rates of CPR training exist across the United States and the factors associated with low rates in US counties. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS We used a cross-sectional ecologic study design to analyze county-level rates of CPR training in all US counties from July 1, 2010, through June 30, 2011. We used CPR training data from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, and the Health & Safety Institute. Using multivariable logistic regression models, we examined the association of annual rates of adult CPR training of citizens by these 3 organizations (categorized as tertiles) with a county's geographic, population, and health care characteristics. EXPOSURE Completion of CPR training. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES Rate of CPR training measured as CPR course completion cards distributed and CPR training products sold by the American Heart Association, persons trained in CPR by the American Red Cross, and product sales data from the Health & Safety Institute. RESULTS During the study period, 13.1 million persons in 3143 US counties received CPR training. Rates of county training ranged from 0.00% to less than 1.29% (median, 0.51%) in the lower tertile, 1.29% to 4.07% (median, 2.39%) in the middle tertile, and greater than 4.07% or greater (median, 6.81%) in the upper tertile. Counties with rates of CPR training in the lower tertile were more likely to have a higher proportion of rural areas (adjusted odds ratio, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.10-1.15] per 5-percentage point [PP] change), higher proportions of black (1.09 [1.06-1.13] per 5-PP change) and Hispanic (1.06 [1.02-1.11] per 5-PP change) residents, a lower median household income (1.18 [1.04-1.34] per $10 000 decrease), and a higher median age (1.28 [1.04-1.58] per 10-year change). Counties in the South, Midwest, and West were more likely to have rates of CPR training in the lower tertile compared with the Northeast (adjusted odds ratios, 7.78 [95% CI, 3.66-16.53], 5.56 [2.63-11.75], and 5.39 [2.48-11.72], respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Annual rates of US CPR training are low and vary widely across communities. Counties located in the South, those with higher proportions of rural areas and of black and Hispanic residents, and those with lower median household incomes have lower rates of CPR training than their counterparts. These data contribute to known geographic disparities in survival of cardiac arrest and offer opportunities for future community interventions.
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Steinberg BA, Zhao Y, He X, Hernandez AF, Fullerton DA, Thomas KL, Mills R, Klaskala W, Peterson ED, Piccini JP. Management of postoperative atrial fibrillation and subsequent outcomes in contemporary patients undergoing cardiac surgery: insights from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons CAPS-Care Atrial Fibrillation Registry. Clin Cardiol 2013; 37:7-13. [PMID: 24353215 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a well-recognized complication of cardiac surgery; however, its management remains a challenge, and the implementation and outcomes of various strategies in clinical practice remain unclear. HYPOTHESIS We hypothesize that treatment for POAF is variable, and that it is associated with particular morbidity and mortality following cardiac surgery. METHODS We compared patient characteristics, operative procedures, postoperative management, and outcomes between patients with and without POAF following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons multicenter Contemporary Analysis of Perioperative Cardiovascular Surgical Care (CAPS-Care) registry (2004-2005). RESULTS Of 2390 patients who underwent CABG, 676 (28%) had POAF. Compared with patients without POAF, those with POAF were older (median age 74 vs 71 years, P<0.0001) and more likely to have hypertension (86% vs 83%, P=0.04) and impaired renal function (median estimated glomerular filtration rate 56.9 vs 58.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, P=0.0001). A majority of patients with POAF were treated with amiodarone (77%) and β-blockers (68%); few (9.9%) underwent cardioversion. Patients with POAF were more likely to experience complications (57% vs 41%, P<0.0001), including acute limb ischemia (1.0% vs 0.4%, P=0.03), stroke (4.0% vs 1.9%, P=0.002), and reoperation (13% vs 7.9%, P<0.0001). Length of stay (median 8 days vs 6 days, P<0.0001), in-hospital mortality (6.8% vs 3.7%, P=0.001), and 30-day mortality (7.8 vs 3.9, P<0.0001) were all worse for patients with POAF. In adjusted analyses, POAF remained associated with increased length of stay following surgery (adjusted ratio of the mean: 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.2-1.34, P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Postoperative AF is common following CABG, and such patients continue to have higher rates of postoperative complications. Postoperative AF is significantly associated with increased length of stay following surgery.
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Shah BR, Thomas KL, Elliot-Bynum S, Thomas K, Damon K, Allen LaPointe N, Calhoun SA, Thomas L, Mathews R, Califf RM, Peterson ED. Check it, change it: a community-based intervention to improve blood pressure control. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2013; 6:741-8. [PMID: 24221840 DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.113.000148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the widespread availability of effective and affordable therapies, hypertension remains this country's most significant modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. Approximately 30% to 50% of individuals with hypertension currently fail to reach guideline-recommended target blood pressure (BP) goals. Although multiple interventions have been proposed to affect better hypertension control, the integration of multiple elements in a community-based program has not been evaluated to date. METHODS AND RESULTS We created a broadly inclusive community-based initiative to control hypertension called Check It, Change It: The Durham Blood Pressure Challenge (CICI). We enrolled ≈2000 participants with hypertension in 8 ambulatory clinics across Durham County, NC. The CICI program engaged individuals by providing them with tools for self-monitoring and tied this information to their caregivers via a web-based portal (the American Heart Association's Heart360, a remote BP monitoring system). Additionally, the CICI facilitated clinical intervention of high-risk individuals using physician assistants and community health coaches. The primary outcome will be a change in BP during the 6 months postenrollment in the program, which will be compared with concurrent and historical control populations of nonparticipants. CONCLUSIONS We think that this integrated and tiered approach will lead to improved BP control within 6 months. If successful, the CICI program has the potential to enhance community-level BP control.
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Thomas KL, Piccini JP, Liang L, Fonarow GC, Yancy CW, Peterson ED, Hernandez AF. Racial differences in the prevalence and outcomes of atrial fibrillation among patients hospitalized with heart failure. J Am Heart Assoc 2013; 2:e000200. [PMID: 24072530 PMCID: PMC3835220 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.113.000200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background The intersection of heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is common, but the burden of AF among black patients with HF is poorly characterized. We sought to determine the prevalence of AF, characteristics, in‐hospital outcomes, and warfarin use associated with AF in patients hospitalized with HF as a function of race. Methods and Results We analyzed data on 135 494 hospitalizations from January 2006 through January 2012 at 276 hospitals participating in the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines HF Program. Multivariable logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations approach for risk‐adjusted comparison of AF prevalence, in‐hospital outcomes, and warfarin use. In this HF population, 53 389 (39.4%) had AF. Black patients had markedly less AF than white patients (20.8% versus 44.8%, P<0.001). Adjusting for risk factors and hospital characteristics, black race was associated with significantly lower odds of AF (adjusted odds ratio 0.52, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.55, P<0.0001). There were no racial differences in in‐hospital mortality; however, black patients had a longer length of stay relative to white patients. Black patients compared with white patients with AF were less likely to be discharged on warfarin (adjusted odds ratio 0.76, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.85, P<0.001). Conclusions Despite having many risk factors for AF, black patients, relative to white patients hospitalized for HF, had a lower prevalence of AF and lower prescription of guideline‐recommended warfarin therapy.
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Thomas KL, Zimmer LO, Dai D, Al-Khatib SM, Allen LaPointe NM, Peterson ED. Educational videos to reduce racial disparities in ICD therapy via innovative designs (VIVID): a randomized clinical trial. Am Heart J 2013; 166:157-63. [PMID: 23816035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2013.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black individuals eligible for an implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (ICD) are considerably less likely than white individuals to receive one. This disparity may, in part, be explained by racial differences in patient preferences. We hypothesized that a targeted patient-centered educational video could improve knowledge of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and ICDs and reduce racial differences in ICD preferences. We conducted a pilot study to assess the feasibility of testing this hypothesis in a randomized trial. METHODS We created a video that included animation, physician commentary, and patient testimonials on SCA and ICDs. The primary outcome was the decision to have an ICD implanted as a function of race and intervention. Between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2011, 59 patients (37 white and 22 black) were randomized to the video or health care provider counseling/usual care. RESULTS Relative to white patients, black patients were younger (median age, 55 vs 68 years) and more likely to have attended college or technical school. Baseline SCA and ICD knowledge was similar and improved significantly in both racial groups after the intervention. Black patients viewing the video were as likely as white patients to want an ICD (60.0% vs 79.2%, P = .20); and among those in the usual care arm, black patients were less likely than white patients to want an ICD (42.9% vs 84.6% P = .05). CONCLUSION Among individuals eligible for an ICD, a video decision aid increased patient knowledge and reduced racial differences in patient preference for an ICD.
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Al-Khatib SM, Fonarow GC, Hayes DL, Curtis AB, Sears SF, Sanders GD, Hernandez AF, Mirro MJ, Thomas KL, Eapen ZJ, Russo AM, Yancy CW. Performance measures to promote quality improvement in sudden cardiac arrest prevention and treatment. Am Heart J 2013; 165:862-8. [PMID: 23708156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2013.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the most impactful public health problems in the United States. Despite the progress made in reducing the number of cardiac deaths, the incidence of sudden cardiac death remains high. Studies of life-saving interventions for prevention and treatment of SCA, like β-blockers, aldosterone antagonists, implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy, automated external defibrillators, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, have brought to light substantial underutilization, variations in care, and disparities. Thus, a comprehensive systems-based approach to addressing these gaps in care should be implemented. In addition to educating stakeholders about SCA and its prevention and developing tools that could help physicians identify patients who could benefit from primary prevention of SCA, robust performance measures with strong, evidence-based association between process performance and patient outcomes are needed. In this article, we review the burden of SCA and highlight the need to develop performance measures related to the prevention and treatment of SCA.
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Hazelton G, Al-Khatib SM, Fonarow GC, Thomas KL, Hayes D, Sanders GD, Campbell SM, Yancy C, Peterson ED, Sears S. Assessment of the quality of existing patient educational tools focused on sudden cardiac arrest: a systematic evaluation by the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Thought Leadership Alliance. Patient Prefer Adherence 2013; 7:361-8. [PMID: 23641150 PMCID: PMC3639714 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s42637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conveying contemporary treatment options for those at risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is challenging. The purpose of the present research was to evaluate the quality and usability of available patient educational tools relevant to SCA and its treatment options, such as implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). We hypothesized that this review would identify gaps in areas of information for the enhancement of patient education and decision-making materials. METHODS We used a formal instrument to assess specific domains of content, development, and effectiveness of 18 available SCA and ICD educational tools. The multidisciplinary review panel included two electrophysiologists, two general cardiologists, a cardiac psychologist, a health services researcher, and a patient advocate. RESULTS Of the 18 education tools, four were rated as "good, may need revisions, but sufficient for use", 12 were rated as "marginal, needs revision prior to use", and two were rated as "poor, inadequate for use". None of the tools were rated as being of "very good" or "excellent" quality. CONCLUSION There appear to be opportunities to improve the quality and completeness of existing educational tools for patients with SCA and ICD. While many tools have been developed, they fall below current standards for supporting informed medical decision-making.
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Williams ES, Thomas KL, Broderick S, Shaw LK, Velazquez EJ, Al-Khatib SM, Daubert JP. Race and gender variation in the QT interval and its association with mortality in patients with coronary artery disease: results from the Duke Databank for Cardiovascular Disease (DDCD). Am Heart J 2012; 164:434-41. [PMID: 22980312 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2012.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In several studies, prolongation of the corrected QT (QTc) interval has been associated with an increased risk of cardiac events. However, data on race and gender variation in the QTc and its associated risk of death are lacking. METHODS We prospectively followed 19,252 subjects who underwent cardiac catheterization and had at least 1 native coronary artery stenosis ≥75%. Automated QTc measurements were obtained from a baseline electrocardiogram. RESULTS The mean age of the population was 62.4 years, with 35% being female and 20% being black. The QTc varied by gender and race (417.9 ± 34.4 ms in men and 433.4 ± 33.6 ms in women, 422.1 ± 34.3 ms in whites and 428.1 ± 36.9 ms in blacks; P < .0001 for both). Risk factors most strongly associated with a prolonged QTc were lower ejection fraction, higher diastolic blood pressure, history of myocardial infarction, and lower glomerular filtration rate. Black race and female gender were also independently associated with a prolonged QTc, after adjustment for cardiac risk factors. Moreover, there was an independent association between QTc and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.037 per 10-ms increase, P < .0001). The increased mortality risk associated with a 10-ms increase in the QTc interval was significantly greater for men compared with women (4.6% vs 2.4%, P = .004) and slightly greater for blacks compared with other races (5.0% vs 3.3%, P = .057). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with coronary artery disease, QTc prolongation is independently associated with all-cause mortality. The increased mortality risk is higher for men than for women, with a trend toward higher mortality in blacks.
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Al-Khatib SM, Hellkamp AS, Hernandez AF, Fonarow GC, Thomas KL, Al-Khalidi HR, Heidenreich PA, Hammill S, Yancy C, Peterson ED. Trends in use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy among patients hospitalized for heart failure: have the previously observed sex and racial disparities changed over time? Circulation 2012; 125:1094-101. [PMID: 22287589 PMCID: PMC3670671 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.111.066605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies have demonstrated low use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) as primary prevention, particularly among women and blacks. The degree to which the overall use of ICD therapy and disparities in use have changed is unclear. METHODS AND RESULTS We examined 11 880 unique patients with a history of heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35% who were ≥65 years old and enrolled in the Get With the Guidelines-Heart Failure (GWTG-HF) program from January 2005 through December 2009. We determined the rate of ICD use by year for the overall population and for sex and race groups. From 2005 to 2007, overall ICD use increased from 30.2% to 42.4% and then remained unchanged in 2008 to 2009. After adjustment for potential confounders, ICD use increased significantly in the overall study population during 2005 to 2007 (odds ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-1.48 per year; P=0.0008) and in black women (odds ratio, 1.82; 95% confidence interval, 1.28-2.58 per year; P=0.0008), white women (odds ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.59 per year; P=0.010), black men (odds ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.19-1.99 per year; P=0.0009), and white men (odds ratio, 1.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.48 per year; P=0.0072). The increase in ICD use was greatest among blacks. CONCLUSIONS In the GWTG-HF quality improvement program, a significant increase in ICD therapy use was observed over time in all sex and race groups. The previously described racial disparities in ICD use were no longer present by the end of the study period; however, sex differences persisted.
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Jackson LR, Daubert JP, Thomas KL. Expanding the benefits of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy: "is less more"? Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2012; 54:372-8. [PMID: 22226007 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy improves survival in patients with significant left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Although this lifesaving therapy has many benefits, inappropriate ICD shocks may increase morbidity and mortality. With rates of inappropriate therapy quoted as high as 35% at 3 years after device implantation, numerous strategies have been evaluated to decrease the overall incidence of inappropriate therapy. Changes in programming algorithms, which allow for longer detection windows for rhythm analysis, extended the use of antitachycardia pacing, and improved supraventricular tachycardia discriminators, hold promise for decreasing inappropriate ICD therapy. In this review, we discuss the data summarizing the adverse effects of ICD shocks on outcomes, clinical trial-based programming algorithms to decrease inappropriate shocks, and the expanded role of antitachycardia pacing in ventricular arrhythmia management.
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Eapen ZJ, Peterson ED, Fonarow GC, Sanders GD, Yancy CW, Sears SF, Carlson MD, Curtis AB, Hall LL, Hayes DL, Hernandez AF, Mirro M, Prystowsky E, Russo AM, Thomas KL, Al-Khatib SM. Quality of care for sudden cardiac arrest: Proposed steps to improve the translation of evidence into practice. Am Heart J 2011; 162:222-31. [PMID: 21835281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2011.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the most common cause of death in the United States. Despite national guidelines, patients at risk for SCA often fail to receive evidence-based therapies. Racial and ethnic minorities and women are at particularly high risk for undertreatment. To address the persistent challenges in improving the quality of care for SCA, the Duke Center for the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death at the Duke Clinical Research Institute (Durham, NC) reconvened the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Thought Leadership Alliance. Experts from clinical cardiology, cardiac electrophysiology, health policy and economics, the US Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, and device and pharmaceutical manufacturers discussed the development of SCA educational tools for patients and providers, mechanisms of implementing successful tools to help providers identify patients in their practice at risk for SCA, disparities in SCA prevention, and performance measures related to SCA care. This article summarizes the discussions held at this meeting.
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Kong MH, Fonarow GC, Peterson ED, Curtis AB, Hernandez AF, Sanders GD, Thomas KL, Hayes DL, Al-Khatib SM. Systematic review of the incidence of sudden cardiac death in the United States. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011; 57:794-801. [PMID: 21310315 PMCID: PMC3612019 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2010.09.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Revised: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The need for consistent and current data describing the true incidence of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and/or sudden cardiac death (SCD) was highlighted during the most recent Sudden Cardiac Arrest Thought Leadership Alliance's (SCATLA) Think Tank meeting of national experts with broad representation of key stakeholders, including thought leaders and representatives from the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and the Heart Rhythm Society. As such, to evaluate the true magnitude of this public health problem, we performed a systematic literature search in MEDLINE using the MeSH headings, "death, sudden" OR the terms "sudden cardiac death" OR "sudden cardiac arrest" OR "cardiac arrest" OR "cardiac death" OR "sudden death" OR "arrhythmic death." Study selection criteria included peer-reviewed publications of primary data used to estimate SCD incidence in the U.S. We used Web of Science's Cited Reference Search to evaluate the impact of each primary estimate on the medical literature by determining the number of times each "primary source" has been cited. The estimated U.S. annual incidence of SCD varied widely from 180,000 to >450,000 among 6 included studies. These different estimates were in part due to different data sources (with data age ranging from 1980 to 2007), definitions of SCD, case ascertainment criteria, methods of estimation/extrapolation, and sources of case ascertainment. The true incidence of SCA and/or SCD in the U.S. remains unclear, with a wide range in the available estimates that are badly dated. As reliable estimates of SCD incidence are important for improving risk stratification and prevention, future efforts are clearly needed to establish uniform definitions of SCA and SCD and then to prospectively and precisely capture cases of SCA and SCD in the overall U.S. population.
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Kong MH, Peterson ED, Fonarow GC, Sanders GD, Yancy CW, Russo AM, Curtis AB, Sears SF, Thomas KL, Campbell S, Carlson MD, Chiames C, Cook NL, Hayes DL, LaRue M, Hernandez AF, Lyons EL, Al-Khatib SM. Addressing disparities in sudden cardiac arrest care and the underutilization of effective therapies. Am Heart J 2010; 160:605-18. [PMID: 20934553 PMCID: PMC2956019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2010.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the most common cause of death in the Unites States. Despite its major impact on public health, significant challenges exist at the patient, provider, public, and policy levels with respect to raising more widespread awareness and understanding of SCA risks, identifying patients at risk for SCA, addressing barriers to SCA care, and eliminating disparities in SCA care and outcomes. To address many of these challenges, the Duke Center for the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death at the Duke Clinical Research Institute (Durham, NC) held a think tank meeting on December 7, 2009, convening experts on this issue from clinical cardiology, cardiac electrophysiology, health policy and economics, the US Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, and device and pharmaceutical manufacturers. The specific goals of the meeting were to examine existing educational tools on SCA for patients, health care providers, and the public and explore ways to enhance and disseminate these tools; to propose a framework for improved identification of patients at risk of SCA; and to review the latest data on disparities in SCA care and explore ways to reduce these disparities. This article summarizes the discussions that occurred at the meeting.
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Amin E, Wright N, Poirier GL, Thomas KL, Erichsen JT, Aggleton JP. Selective lamina dysregulation in granular retrosplenial cortex (area 29) after anterior thalamic lesions: an in situ hybridization and trans-neuronal tracing study in rats. Neuroscience 2010; 169:1255-67. [PMID: 20570608 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.05.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Revised: 05/21/2010] [Accepted: 05/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that lesions of the anterior thalamic nuclei cause long-lasting intrinsic changes to retrosplenial cortex, with the potential to alter its functional properties. The present study had two goals. The first was to identify the pattern of changes in eight markers, as measured by in-situ hydridisation, in the granular retrosplenial cortex (area Rgb) following anterior thalamic lesions. The second was to use retrograde trans-neuronal tracing methods to identify the potential repercussions of intrinsic changes within granular retrosplenial cortex. In Experiment 1, adult rats received unilateral lesions of the anterior thalamic nuclei and were perfused 4 weeks later. Of the eight markers, four (c-fos, zif268, 5ht2rc, kcnab2) showed a very similar pattern of change, with decreased levels in superficial retrosplenial cortex (lamina II) in the ipsilateral hemisphere but little or no change in deeper layers (lamina V). A fifth marker (cox6b) showed a shift in activity levels in the opposite direction to the previous four markers. Three other markers (cox6a1, CD74, ncs-1) did not appear to change activity levels after surgery. The predominant pattern of change, a decrease in superficial cortical activity, points to potential alterations in plasticity and metabolism. In Experiment 2, wheat germ agglutin (WGA) was injected into the anterior thalamic nuclei in rats given different survival times, sometimes in combination with the retrograde, fluorescent tracer, Fast Blue. Dense aggregations of retrogradely labeled cells were always found in lamina VI of granular retrosplenial cortex, but additional labeled cells in lamina II were only found: (1) in WGA cases, that is never after Fast Blue injections, and (2) after longer WGA survival times (3 days). These layer II Rgb cells are likely to have been trans-neuronally labeled, revealing a pathway from lamina II of Rgb to those deeper retrosplenial cells that project directly to the anterior thalamic nuclei.
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Thomas KL. Discrimination: a new cardiovascular risk factor? Am Heart J 2008; 156:1023-5. [PMID: 19032995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2008.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2008] [Accepted: 08/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Piccini JP, Hernandez AF, Dai D, Thomas KL, Lewis WR, Yancy CW, Peterson ED, Fonarow GC. Use of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients Hospitalized With Heart Failure. Circulation 2008; 118:926-33. [DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.108.773838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Prisant LM, Thomas KL, Lewis EF, Huang Z, Francis GS, Weaver WD, Pfeffer MA, McMurray JJV, Califf RM, Velazquez EJ. Racial analysis of patients with myocardial infarction complicated by heart failure and/or left ventricular dysfunction treated with valsartan, captopril, or both. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008; 51:1865-71. [PMID: 18466801 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2007.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2006] [Revised: 12/07/2007] [Accepted: 12/11/2007] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES African Americans have a high incidence of heart failure (HF). Limited retrospective observational subgroup analyses of patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) suggest marginal benefit of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in the prevention of HF hospitalizations or total mortality in African Americans. BACKGROUND Very few data exist concerning the effectiveness of angiotensin receptor blockers in this population. METHODS Baseline characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of patients from the U.S. (3,390 white and 340 African-American patients) in the VALIANT (VALsartan In Acute myocardial iNfarcTion) trial were compared. This trial included patients with an acute myocardial infarction (MI) after initial stabilization and documented LVSD and/or HF. Patients were randomly assigned to receive treatment with valsartan, captopril, or the combination; follow-up continued for up to 3 years (median 24.7 months). RESULTS African Americans had more coronary risk factors, more markers of poor outcome after MI, and were less likely to be revascularized when compared with white patients. After adjusting for treatment assignment, baseline characteristics, and post-infarction parameters, no difference was found in the 3-year rate of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, rehospitalization for HF, recurrent MI, or stroke between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS African Americans sustaining an acute MI with LVSD and/or HF had similar clinical outcomes compared with white Americans. Valsartan, captopril, or the combination had comparable effects on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in African Americans and white Americans.
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Thomas KL, Al-Khatib SM, Kelsey RC, Bush H, Brosius L, Velazquez EJ, Peterson ED, Gilliam FR. Racial disparity in the utilization of implantable-cardioverter defibrillators among patients with prior myocardial infarction and an ejection fraction of <or=35%. Am J Cardiol 2007; 100:924-9. [PMID: 17826371 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2007.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2007] [Revised: 04/13/2007] [Accepted: 04/13/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Age-adjusted sudden cardiac death rates are highest for black patients compared with other racial groups. The prophylactic implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) provides a significant reduction in sudden cardiac death and overall mortality in patients after myocardial infarctions with significant left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine whether black patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction were less likely than white patients to receive ICDs for the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Data from the National Registry to Advance Heart Health (ADVANCENT) were analyzed to determine which patients with histories of myocardial infarctions and ejection fractions<or=35% received ICDs for the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of patients' race with ICD implantation. Overall, 7,830 patients were identified as eligible candidates for ICDs. Black patients (n=660) were younger, more often women, had less education, had more co-morbidities, and had a lower mean ejection fraction compared with white patients (n=7,170). More than 90% of the study population were insured, and approximately 88% of participants in the registry were enrolled by cardiologists. Blacks were significantly less likely than whites to receive ICDs (30% vs 41%, p<0.001). This difference in ICD use persisted after adjusting for demographics, clinical characteristics, and socioeconomic factors (odds ratio 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.50 to 0.75, p<0.001). In conclusion, among patients at an increased risk for sudden cardiac death, blacks were significantly less likely to receive ICDs than whites.
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Hafezi-Moghadam A, Noda K, Almulki L, Iliaki EF, Poulaki V, Thomas KL, Nakazawa T, Hisatomi T, Miller JW, Gragoudas ES. VLA-4 blockade suppresses endotoxin-induced uveitis: in vivo evidence for functional integrin up-regulation. FASEB J 2007; 21:464-74. [PMID: 17202250 DOI: 10.1096/fj.06-6390com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Leukocyte adhesion to the vascular wall is a critical early step in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases and is mediated in part by the leukocyte integrin, VLA-4, which binds to endothelial vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) -1. Here, we investigate VLA-4's role in endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU). At various time points (6-48 h) after EIU induction, the severity of the inflammation was evaluated by quantifying cell and protein content in the aqueous fluid, firm leukocyte adhesion in the retinal vessels, and the number of extravasated leukocytes into the vitreous. Functional activation of VLA-4 in vivo was investigated in our previously introduced autoperfused micro flow chamber assay. Firm adhesion of EIU leukocytes to immobilized VCAM-1 under physiological blood flow conditions was significantly increased compared with normal controls (P<0.05), suggesting an important role for VLA-4 in EIU. VLA-4 blockade in vivo significantly suppressed all uveitis-related inflammatory parameters studied, decreasing the clinical score by 45% (P<0.01), protein content in the aqueous fluid by 21% (P<0.01), retinal leukostasis by 68% (P<0.01), and leukocyte accumulation in the vitreous by 75% (P<0.01). Our data provide novel evidence for functional up-regulation of VLA-4 during EIU and suggest VLA-4 blockade as a promising therapeutic strategy for treatment of acute inflammatory eye diseases.
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Echols MR, Felker GM, Thomas KL, Pieper KS, Garg J, Cuffe MS, Gheorghiade M, Califf RM, O'Connor CM. Racial Differences in the Characteristics of Patients Admitted for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure and Their Relation to Outcomes: Results From the OPTIME-CHF Trial. J Card Fail 2006; 12:684-8. [PMID: 17174228 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2006.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2005] [Revised: 08/01/2006] [Accepted: 08/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent data suggest that differences in response to therapy and survival exist between African Americans and Caucasians with heart failure. Whether these differences exist in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is uncertain. METHODS AND RESULTS We analyzed data from the OPTIME-CHF (Outcomes of a Prospective Trial of Intravenous Milrinone for Exacerbations of Chronic Heart Failure) study, a randomized trial of intravenous milrinone versus placebo in 949 patients hospitalized with ADHF. We evaluated differences in clinical characteristics, outcomes, and response to milrinone therapy in African American patients compared with Caucasians. The primary end point of OPTIME-CHF was days hospitalized for cardiovascular causes or death within 60 days of randomization. Thirty-three percent (n = 310) of patients were African American. African American patients were younger (57 vs. 70 years, P < .0001) and more likely to have non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (74% vs. 36%, P < .0001). In unadjusted analysis, African American patients had a lower 60-day mortality (5% vs. 12%, P = .0004) and tended to have better overall clinical outcomes. After adjustment for baseline differences, however, these differences were no longer significant. We found no differential effect of milrinone therapy by race. CONCLUSION African American patients with acute decompensated heart failure present with a different clinical profile than Caucasian patients. Although unadjusted clinical outcomes are better for African Americans presenting with ADHF, these differences diminished after adjustment for baseline characteristics.
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Goyal A, Mills JS, Tricoci P, Thomas KL, Baeza R, Adams GL, Melloni C. Highlights from the 55th Annual Scientific Sessions of the American College of Cardiology: March 11 to 14, 2006, Atlanta, Georgia. Am Heart J 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2006.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a common complication of myocardial infarction (MI) that carries a poor prognosis when present. HF and/or left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) occur in approximately 40% of patients who suffer acute MI. The estimated mortality of patients developing HF or LVSD post-MI is 20% to 30%, with that risk varying based on the presence of HF upon initial assessment versus occurring later during the MI hospitalization. Clinical factors and comorbidities associated with post-MI HF include age, diabetes, hypertension, female gender, infarct size, and tachycardia. Factors associated with decreased survival in patients with post-MI HF include Killip class, age, low blood pressure, tachycardia, male gender, and anterior location of MI. Despite extensive data identifying this patient population as high risk, patients with post-MI HF or LVSD are significantly less likely to receive evidence-based medications or revascularization procedures than those without HF. Despite the high prevalence of HF after MI, few studies have examined therapies to prevent it. This review summarizes studies that reported the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of patients with post-MI HF or LVSD. Additionally, we discuss therapies to prevent post-MI HF and treatment of patients with post-MI HF and/or LVSD.
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Goyal A, Tricoci P, Melloni C, Mills JS, Thomas KL, Adams GL, Mitchell RG, Turer AT. Highlights from the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, November 13 to 16, 2005, Dallas, TX. Am Heart J 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2005.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Thomas KL, East MA, Velazquez EJ, Tuttle RH, Shaw LK, O'Connor CM, Peterson ED. Outcomes by race and etiology of patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Am J Cardiol 2005; 96:956-63. [PMID: 16188524 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2005.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2005] [Revised: 07/05/2005] [Accepted: 07/05/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that blacks have worse long-term outcomes than whites who have systolic heart failure. The reasons for these racial differences remain unclear. We investigated the effect of race and etiology of heart failure on outcomes of patients who had left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. We studied records of 1,977 patients (27% black) who underwent cardiac catheterization who had New York Heart Association class II to IV symptoms and a LV ejection fraction <40%. Adjusted Cox's proportional hazards regression models were examined for the end points of mortality, rehospitalization, and a composite of the 2. Black versus white patients were younger (median age 56 vs 63 years, p <0.01), more often were women (49% vs 33%, p <0.01), had diabetes (37% vs 31%, p = 0.02), and hypertension (75% vs 56%, p <0.01). Black patients were less likely to have significant coronary artery disease by angiography (41% vs 69%, p <0.01). Race was not an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio 1.09, 95% confidence interval 0.93 to 1.28, p = 0.27). After adjusted survival curves were stratified by race and etiology, the estimates indicated that among those patients who had nonischemic LV dysfunction, blacks appeared to have worse survival than whites. Thus, we found no racial differences in the long-term mortality risk of patients who had symptomatic LV systolic dysfunction. In conclusion, after stratifying by ischemic and nonischemic etiologies, we found decreased survival in blacks who had a nonischemic etiology compared with whites. There were no racial differences in rehospitalization between patients who had ischemic LV systolic dysfunction and those who did not.
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Thomas KL, East M, Tuttle R, Shaw L, Battle J, Peterson E, O'Connor C. Are racial differences in the long-term prognosis of systolic heart failure independent of differences in etiology? J Am Coll Cardiol 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(02)80847-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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