2016 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the Management of Dyslipidaemias

COSMIC project: consensus on the objectives of the metabolic syndrome in clinic

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a disorder with a high and growing prevalence, is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes. It is a constellation of clinical and metabolic risk factors that include abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, and hypertension. Unfortunately, MetS is typically underrecognized, and there is great heterogeneity in its management, which can hamper clinical decision-making and be a barrier to achieving the therapeutic goals of CVD and diabetes prevention. Although no single treatment for MetS as a whole currently exists, management should be targeted at treating the conditions contributing to it and possibly reversing the risk factors. All this justifies the need to develop recommendations that adapt existing knowledge to clinical practice in our healthcare system. In this regard, professionals from different scientific societies who are involved in the management of the different MetS components reviewed the available scientific evidence focused basically on therapeutic aspects of MetS and developed a consensus document to establish recommendations on therapeutic goals that facilitate their homogenization in clinical decision-making.

Hypercholesterolaemia - practical information for non-specialists

Hypercholesterolaemia is amongst the most common conditions encountered in the medical profession. It remains one of the key modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and there have been recent advances in the risk stratification methods and treatment options available. In this review, we provide a background into hypercholesterolaemia for non-specialists and consider the merits of the different risk assessment tools available. We also provide detailed considerations as to: i) when to start treatment, ii) what targets to aim for and iii) the role of low density lipoprotein cholesterol.

The effect of fasting status on lipids, lipoproteins, and inflammatory biomarkers assessed after hospitalization for an acute coronary syndrome: Insights from PROVE IT-TIMI 22

BACKGROUND

For decades, fasting for 8 to 12 hours has been recommended for measurement of lipid profiles. The effect of fasting on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) has been described in healthy cohorts and those with stable disease states. Recently, guidelines suggested that fasting may not be necessary due to its small effect on lipid measures. Little is known, however, regarding whether the impact of fasting is altered in the setting of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that the post-ACS period would minimally effect the impact of fasting status on lipid measurements.

METHODS

We evaluated the association of fasting on lipid and other biomarkers at the randomization visit, which occurred at a median of 7 days after the onset of an ACS, as well as during follow-up, in a cohort of 4177 subjects from the Pravastatin or Atorvastatin Evaluation and Infection Therapy-Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction 22 (PROVE IT-TIMI 22) trial.

RESULTS

Fasting samples were independently associated with a higher LDL-C of 4.1 mg/dL and apolipoprotein-B 100 of 2.6 mg/dL as well as a lower TG of 21.0 mg/dL and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 0.48 mg/dL. The relative difference was 3.8% for LDL-C and -11.3% for TG. Fasting did not change total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I, lipoprotein(a), or apolipoprotein C-III.

CONCLUSIONS

Although fasting does impact lipid measurements, the effect on LDL-C is small (about 4 mg/dL), both early after ACS and during follow-up. These data provide support for recent guidelines that no longer advocate for fasting lipid samples, including in the setting of ACS.

Relationship between Lipid Phenotypes, Overweight, Lipid Lowering Drug Response and KIF6 and HMG-CoA Genotypes in a Subset of the Brisighella Heart Study Population

The existence of genetic traits might explain the susceptibility to develop hypercholesterolemia and the inter-individual differences in statin response. This study was performed to evaluate whether individuals' polymorphisms in HMG-CoA and KIF6 genes are independently associated with hypercholesterolemia, other lipid-associated traits, and statin response in unselected individuals enrolled in the Brisighella heart study (Survey 2012). A total of 1622 individuals, of which 183 under statin medication, were genotyped for a total of five polymorphisms (KIF6 rs20455, rs9471077, rs9462535; HMG-CoA rs3761740, rs3846662). The relationships between the five loci and clinical characteristics were analyzed. The principal basic parameters calculated on 12 h fasting blood included total cholesterol (TC), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). Hypercholesterolemia was defined as a TC >200 mg/dL or use of lipid-lowering medication. 965 individuals were characterized by hypercholesterolemia; these subjects were significantly older (p < 0.001), with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to the others. HMG-CoA rs3846662 GG genotype was significantly over-represented in the hypercholesterolemic group (p = 0.030). HMG-CoA rs3846662 genotype was associated with the level of TC and LDL-C. Furthermore, in the same subset of untreated subjects, we observed a significant correlation between the KIF6 rs20455 and HDL-C. KIF6 variants were associated with a significantly lower (rs20455) or higher (rs9471077 and rs9462535) risk of obesity, in males only. No association between responsiveness to statins and the polymorphisms under investigation were observed. Our results showed associations between HMG-CoA rs3846662 and KIF6 rs20455 and lipid phenotypes, which may have an influence on dyslipidemia-related events. Moreover, this represents the first study implicating KIF6 variants with obesity in men, and point to the possible involvement of this genetic locus in the known gender-related differences in coronary artery disease.

Prevalence and determinants of polypharmacy in Switzerland: data from the CoLaus study

Background

Polypharmacy is a frequent condition, but its prevalence and determinants in the Swiss mid-aged population are unknown. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and determinants of polypharmacy in a large Swiss mid-aged population-based sample.

Methods

Data from 4938 participants of the CoLaus study (53% women, age range 40–81 years) were collected between 2009 and 2012. Polypharmacy was defined by the regular use of five or more drugs.

Results

Polypharmacy was reported by 580 participants [11.8%, 95% confidence interval (10.9; 12.6)]. Participants on polypharmacy were significantly older (mean ± standard deviation: 66.0 ± 9.1 vs. 56.6 ± 10.1 years), more frequently obese (35.9% vs. 14.7%), of lower education (66.6% vs. 50.7%) and former smokers (46.7% vs. 36.4%) than participants not on polypharmacy. These findings were confirmed by multivariate analysis: odds ratio and (95% confidence interval) for age groups 50–64 and 65–81 relative to 40–49 years: 2.90 (2.04; 4.12) and 10.3 (7.26; 14.5), respectively, p for trend < 0.001; for low relative to high education: 1.56 (1.17; 2.07); for overweight and obese relative to normal weight participants: 2.09 (1.65; 2.66) and 4.38 (3.39; 5.66), respectively, p for trend < 0.001; for former and current relative to never smokers: 1.42 (1.14, 1.75) and 1.63 (1.25, 2.12), respectively, p for trend < 0.001.

Conclusion

One out of nine participants of our sample is on polypharmacy. Increasing age, body mass index, smoking and lower education independently increase the likelihood of being on polypharmacy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-017-2793-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Lipoprotein(a) in clinical practice: New perspectives from basic and translational science

Elevated plasma concentrations of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) are a causal risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) and calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS). Genetic, epidemiological and in vitro data provide strong evidence for a pathogenic role for Lp(a) in the progression of atherothrombotic disease. Despite these advancements and a race to develop new Lp(a) lowering therapies, there are still many unanswered and emerging questions about the metabolism and pathophysiology of Lp(a). New studies have drawn attention to Lp(a) as a contributor to novel pathogenic processes, yet the mechanisms underlying the contribution of Lp(a) to CVD remain enigmatic. New therapeutics show promise in lowering plasma Lp(a) levels, although the complete mechanisms of Lp(a) lowering are not fully understood. Specific agents targeted to apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)), namely antisense oligonucleotide therapy, demonstrate potential to decrease Lp(a) to levels below the 30-50 mg/dL (75-150 nmol/L) CVD risk threshold. This therapeutic approach should aid in assessing the benefit of lowering Lp(a) in a clinical setting.

Association between the PINX1 and NAT2 polymorphisms and serum lipid levels

Jing nationality is a relatively conservative and isolated minority in China. Little is known about the association of the PIN2/TERF1-interacting telomerase inhibitor 1 (PINX1) and N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and serum lipid levels in the Chinese populations. This study aimed to clarify the association of 6 SNPs of the PINX1 and NAT2 and serum lipid levels in two Chinese populations. Genotyping of the SNPs was performed in 1236 Han subjects and 1248 Jing participants. Allelic and genotypic frequencies of these variants (except NAT2 rs1799931) were different between the two ethnic groups. The minor allele carriers had higher triglyceride (TG, rs11776767, rs1495743 and rs1799930), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (rs6601530) levels and the apolipoprotein (Apo)A1/ApoB ratio (rs1495743) in Han nationality; and higher total cholesterol (rs1961456), TG (rs11776767, rs6601530 and rs1495743) and lower ApoA1 (rs6601530 and rs1799931) levels in Jing minority than the minor allele non-carriers. The SNPs were not statistically independent by the multiple-locus linkage disequilibrium analyses. The integrative haplotypes and gene-by-gene (G × G) interactions on serum lipid traits were also observed in the two populations. Association analysis based on haplotypes and G × G interactions might be powerful than single-locus tests. Differences in serum lipid profiles between the two populations might partially be attributed to these SNPs, their haplotypes and G × G interactions.

Association of the TG/HDL-C and Non-HDL-C/HDL-C Ratios with Chronic Kidney Disease in an Adult Chinese Population

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Evidence indicates a role for dyslipidemia in the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the association of lipid abnormalities and their ratios with kidney disease using the new CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation is not well understood.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 48,054 adult subjects. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 or dipstick-positive proteinuria. Logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between lipid variables and CKD.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CKD in this study was 3.7%. When the participants exhibited higher serum triglyceride (TG), a higher TG/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-c) ratio or a higher non-HDL-c/HDL-c ratio or HDL-c in a lower quartile, the prevalence of CKD tended to be higher. The multivariate adjusted odds ratios for CKD per 1 standard deviation increase in lipid level were 1.17 (1.10-1.23) for TG, 0.86 (0.79-0.93) for HDL-c, 1.21 (1.13-1.31) for the TG/HDL-c ratio, and 1.14 (1.06-1.22) for the non-HDL-c/HDL-c ratio. No significant association was detected between CKD and total cholesterol (TC), non-HDL-c or the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/HDL-c (LDL-c/HDL-c) ratio.

CONCLUSION

In this relatively healthy adult Chinese population, the CKD-EPI equation determined that the TG/HDL-c and non-HDL-c/HDL-c ratios as well as TG and HDL-c correlate with the prevalence of CKD.

Hypertriglyceridemia and atherosclerosis

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death and it has been confirmed that increased low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. Recently, the increasing evidence has showed that hypertriglyceridemia is associated with incremental ASCVD risk. But the proatherogenic mechanism of triglyceride (TG) remains unclear. Therefore, this article focuses on the clinical studies and proatherogenic mechanism related to hypertriglyceridemia, in order to provide reference for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD.

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interaction between ezetimibe and rosuvastatin in healthy male subjects

Background and objective

Rosuvastatin and ezetimibe are commonly applied in lipid-lowering pharmacotherapy. However, the pharmacokinetic (PK) interaction was not clear by the coadministration of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe. This study investigated the pharmacodynamic (PD) and PK interactions between rosuvastatin and ezetimibe through a crossover clinical trial.

Subjects and methods

A randomized, open-label, multiple-dose, two-treatment, two-period, two-sequence crossover study with two treatment parts was conducted in healthy male subjects. Study part A involved rosuvastatin, and study part B involved ezetimibe. A total of 25 subjects in both parts completed the PK and PD evaluations. Rosuvastatin (20 mg) or ezetimibe (10 mg) was administered once daily for 7 days as monotherapy or co-therapy. The plasma concentrations of rosuvastatin, total ezetimibe and free ezetimibe were measured for 72 h after day 7. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC) were investigated for the PD assessments on day 1 (pretreatment) and day 8.

Results

Rosuvastatin and ezetimibe presented multiple peaks. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the geometric mean ratios for the peak plasma concentration at steady state (C_max,ss) and area under the plasma concentration-time curve during the dosing interval at steady state (AUC_τ,ss) of rosuvastatin and total ezetimibe were within the range 0.8-1.25. However, the coadministration increased the systemic exposure of free ezetimibe. In the PD assessments, rosuvastatin and ezetimibe monotherapy reduced the LDL-C and TC levels effectively. In addition, the lipid-lowering effects of the coadministration corresponded to an approximate summation of the effects of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe monotherapy. However, no significant changes in HDL-C were observed with rosuvastatin or ezetimibe treatment. No significant safety issue was noted.

Conclusion

The coadministration of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe revealed a bioequivalent PK interaction. Additional lipid-lowering effects, including decreased LDL-C and TC, were observed as expected in combination therapy without significant safety concern.

Cardiovascular safety and efficacy of the PCSK9 inhibitor evolocumab in patients with and without diabetes and the effect of evolocumab on glycaemia and risk of new-onset diabetes: a prespecified analysis of the FOURIER randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor evolocumab reduced LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular events in the FOURIER trial. In this prespecified analysis of FOURIER, we investigated the efficacy and safety of evolocumab by diabetes status and the effect of evolocumab on glycaemia and risk of developing diabetes.

METHODS

FOURIER was a randomised trial of evolocumab (140 mg every 2 weeks or 420 mg once per month) versus placebo in 27 564 patients with atherosclerotic disease who were on statin therapy, followed up for a median of 2·2 years. In this prespecified analysis, we investigated the effect of evolocumab on cardiovascular events by diabetes status at baseline, defined on the basis of patient history, clinical events committee review of medical records, or baseline HbA_1c of 6·5% (48 mmol/mol) or greater or fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of 7·0 mmol/L or greater. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, hospital admission for unstable angina, or coronary revascularisation. The key secondary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke. We also assessed the effect of evolocumab on glycaemia, and on the risk of new-onset diabetes among patients without diabetes at baseline. HbA_1c was measured at baseline then every 24 weeks and FPG was measured at baseline, week 12, week 24, and every 24 weeks thereafter, and potential cases of new-onset diabetes were adjudicated centrally. In a post-hoc analysis, we also investigated the effects on glycaemia and diabetes risk in patients with prediabetes (HbA_1c 5·7-6·4% [39-46 mmol/mol] or FPG 5·6-6·9 mmol/L) at baseline. FOURIER is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01764633.

FINDINGS

At study baseline, 11 031 patients (40%) had diabetes and 16 533 (60%) did not have diabetes (of whom 10 344 had prediabetes and 6189 had normoglycaemia). Evolocumab significantly reduced cardiovascular outcomes consistently in patients with and without diabetes at baseline. For the primary composite endpoint, the hazard ratios (HRs) were 0·83 (95% CI 0·75-0·93; p=0·0008) for patients with diabetes and 0·87 (0·79-0·96; p=0·0052) for patients without diabetes (p_interaction=0·60). For the key secondary endpoint, the HRs were 0·82 (0·72-0·93; p=0·0021) for those with diabetes and 0·78 (0·69-0·89; p=0·0002) for those without diabetes (p_interaction=0·65). Evolocumab did not increase the risk of new-onset diabetes in patients without diabetes at baseline (HR 1·05, 0·94-1·17), including in those with prediabetes (HR 1·00, 0·89-1·13). Levels of HbA_1c and FPG were similar between the evolocumab and placebo groups over time in patients with diabetes, prediabetes, or normoglycaemia. Among patients with diabetes at baseline, the proportions of patients with adverse events were 78·5% (4327 of 5513 patients) in the evolocumab group and 78·3% (4307 of 5502 patients) in the placebo group; among patients without diabetes at baseline, the proportions with adverse events were 76·8% (6337 of 8256 patients) in the evolocumab group and 76·8% (6337 of 8254 patients) in the placebo group.

INTERPRETATION

PCSK9 inhibition with evolocumab significantly reduced cardiovascular risk in patients with and without diabetes. Evolocumab did not increase the risk of new-onset diabetes, nor did it worsen glycaemia. These data suggest evolocumab use in patients with atherosclerotic disease is efficacious and safe in patients with and without diabetes.

FUNDING

Amgen.

Strategies for the use of nonstatin therapies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Dyslipidaemias are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD); in particular, high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) have been associated to a higher cardiovascular risk. Reducing LDL-C levels decreases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), and the greater the LDL-C reduction, the greater the decrease in cardiovascular risk. Although statins represent the first line lipid-lowering therapy, many patients do not reach the recommended goals or exhibit adverse side effects leading to therapy discontinuation; in addition, a significant percentage of statin-treated patients continue to experience cardiovascular events even in the presence of well controlled LDL-C levels, because of alterations in other lipid/lipoprotein classes, including triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

RECENT FINDINGS

These conditions require further therapeutic interventions to achieve the recommended lipid goals. Several drugs have been developed to address these needs. Recent studies have shown that the association of ezetimibe with rosuvastatin or atorvastatin results in a better hypolipidaemic effect; in addition to this, PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduce LDL-C levels and cardiovascular events.

SUMMARY

For patients who are intolerant to statins or not able to reach the recommended LDL-C levels, despite maximal tolerated dose of statin, or exhibiting additional lipid alterations, several drugs are available that can be used either in monotherapy or on top of the maximally tolerated dose of statins.

Eligibility for PCSK9 Inhibitors According to American College of Cardiology (ACC) and European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society (ESC/EAS) Guidelines After Acute Coronary Syndromes

Background

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society (ESC/EAS) have recently published recommendations for the use of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin‐9 (PCSK9) inhibitors in situations of very high risk. We aim to assess in the real world the suitability of PCSK9 inhibitors for acute coronary syndromes.

Methods and Results

We analyzed a prospective Swiss cohort of 2023 patients hospitalized for acute coronary syndromes between 2009 and 2014 with available data for low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and lipid‐lowering therapy at 1 year. Clinical familial hypercholesterolemia was defined using the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network algorithm as unlikely, possible, probable, or definite. We simulated a fixed relative reduction of 24% in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels at 1 year in all patients not treated with ezetimibe, irrespective of the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and statin regimen. At 1 year, 94.3% of patients were treated with statin, 5.8% with ezetimibe, and 35.8% of patients had on‐target low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (<1.8 mmol/L); 25.6% met criteria for possible or probable/definite familial hypercholesterolemia. After a simulation of the lipid‐lowering effect of ezetimibe, the proportion of patients who would be eligible for PCSK9 inhibitors at 1 year was 13.4% using American College of Cardiology criteria and 2.7% using European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society criteria. Patients with possible or probable/definite familial hypercholesterolemia were more eligible for PCSK9 inhibitors compared with their non–familial hypercholesterolemia counterparts: 27.6% versus 8.8% according to American College of Cardiology criteria and 6.6% versus 1.8% according to European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society criteria (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Recommendations made by the American College of Cardiology guidelines would lead to 5‐fold higher eligibility rates for PCSK9 inhibitors compared to the European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society consensus statement in acute coronary syndrome patients.

Control of cardiovascular risk factors and its determinants in the general population- findings from the STAAB cohort study

Background

While data from primary care suggest an insufficient control of vascular risk factors, little is known about vascular risk factor control in the general population. We therefore aimed to investigate the adoption of adequate risk factor control and its determinants in the general population free of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Data from the Characteristics and Course of Heart Failure Stages A-B and Determinants of Progression (STAAB) Cohort Study, a population-based study of inhabitants aged 30 to 79 years from the general population of Würzburg (Germany), were used. Proportions of participants without established CVD meeting targets for risk factor control recommended by 2016 ESC guideline were identified. Determinants of the accumulation of insufficiently controlled vascular risk factors (three or more) were assessed.

Results

Between December 2013 and April 2015, 1379 participants without CVD were included; mean age was 53.1 ± 11.9 years and 52.9% were female; 30.8% were physically inactive, 55.2% overweight, 19.3% current smokers. Hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus were prevalent in 31.8%, 57.6%, and 3.9%, respectively. Treatment goals were not reached despite medication in 52.7% of hypertensive, in 37.3% of hyperlipidemic and in 44.0% of diabetic subjects. Insufficiently controlled risk was associated with male sex (OR 1.94, 95%CI 1.44–2.61), higher age (OR for 30–39 years vs. 70–79 years 4.01, 95%CI 1.94–8.31) and lower level of education (OR for primary vs. tertiary 2.15, 95%CI 1.48–3.11).

Conclusions

In the general population, prevalence of vascular risk factors was high. We found insufficient identification and control of vascular risk factors and a considerable potential to improve adherence to cardiovascular guidelines for primary prevention. Further studies are needed to identify and overcome patient- and physician-related barriers impeding successful control of vascular risk factors in the general population.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12872-017-0708-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Low Very low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol but High Very low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor mRNA Expression in Peripheral White Blood Cells: An Atherogenic Phenotype for Atherosclerosis in a Community-Based Population

Very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), via binding very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), can induce the development of atherosclerosis. Besides monocytes, VLDLR expression is detected in various peripheral white blood cells (WBCs), yet its underlying role remains unclear. We thereby aimed to test the hypothesis that VLDLR in all types of peripheral WBCs may be involved in the association between VLDL-C and atherosclerosis. VLDLR mRNA expression in peripheral WBC and plasma VLDL-C levels were measured in 747 participants from a community-based study. Plaque prevalence and total plaque area (TPA) were used to evaluate the burden of carotid atherosclerosis. VLDL-C was positively associated with atherosclerosis risk, whereas this association was modified by VLDLR mRNA level. In participants with the lowest VLDL-C but the highest VLDLR mRNA expression, the risk for plaque prevalence unexpectedly was the highest. This association was also observed for TPA. Moreover, this association remained unchanged after adjusting for WBC or monocytes. Our findings described an atherogenic phenotype characterized by low VLDL-C but high VLDLR mRNA expression in peripheral WBCs, which suggested that VLDLR in all types of peripheral WBCs may be involved in lipid deposition, and VLDL-C and VLDLR may co-determine the development of atherosclerosis.

Effects of Vitamin D on Blood Pressure, Arterial Stiffness, and Cardiac Function in Older People After 1 Year: BEST-D (Biochemical Efficacy and Safety Trial of Vitamin D)

BACKGROUND

The relevance of vitamin D for prevention of cardiovascular disease is uncertain. The BEST-D (Biochemical Efficacy and Safety Trial of vitamin D) trial previously reported effects of vitamin D on plasma markers of vitamin D status, and the present report describes the effects on blood pressure, heart rate, arterial stiffness, and cardiac function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 305 older people living in United Kingdom, who were allocated vitamin D 4000 IU (100 μg), vitamin D 2000 IU (50 μg), or placebo daily. Primary outcomes were plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and secondary outcomes were blood pressure, heart rate, and arterial stiffness in all participants at 6 and 12 months, plasma N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide levels in all participants at 12 months, and echocardiographic measures of cardiac function in a randomly selected subset (n=177) at 12 months. Mean (SE) plasma 25-hydroxy-vitamin D concentrations were 50 (SE 2) nmol/L at baseline and increased to 137 (2.4), 102 (2.4), and 53 (2.4) nmol/L after 12 months in those allocated 4000 IU/d, 2000 IU/d of vitamin D, or placebo, respectively. Allocation to vitamin D had no significant effect on mean levels of blood pressure, heart rate, or arterial stiffness at either 6 or 12 months, nor on any echocardiographic measures of cardiac function, or plasma N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide concentration at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of any significant effect of vitamin D on blood pressure, arterial stiffness, or cardiac function suggests that any beneficial effects of vitamin D on cardiovascular disease are unlikely to be mediated through these mechanisms.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search. Unique identifier: EudraCT number: 2011-005763-24a.

Relation of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol With Microvascular Injury and Clinical Outcome in Revascularized ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Microvascular injury (MVI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a major determinant of adverse clinical outcome. Experimental data indicate an impact of hypercholesterolemia on MVI; however, there is a lack of clinical studies confirming this relation. We aimed to investigate the association of cholesterol concentrations on admission with MVI visualized by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and clinical outcome in STEMI patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this prospective, observational study, we included 235 consecutive revascularized STEMI patients. Cholesterol (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein [LDL], and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and triglyceride concentrations were determined at presentation. Cardiac magnetic resonance scans were performed 2 (2-4) days after infarction to assess infarct characteristics, including MVI. Clinical end point was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) comprising all-cause mortality, nonfatal reinfarction, and new congestive heart failure. Patients with MVI (n=129; 55%) showed higher levels of total cholesterol (204 [172-226] versus 185 [168-212] mg/dL; P=0.01) and LDL cholesterol (142 [113-166] versus 118 [103-149] mg/dL; P=0.001), whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides did not differ significantly. In multivariable analysis, including all significant clinical and cardiac magnetic resonance determinants of MVI, LDL concentration emerged as an independent predictor of MVI (odds ratio, 1.02 [95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.02]; P=0.002). Furthermore, increased LDL cholesterol (>150 mg/dL) significantly predicted the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (hazard ratio, 3.09 [95% confidence interval, 1.22-7.87]; P=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention, baseline LDL cholesterol concentrations were independently associated with MVI, revealing a clinically relevant link between LDL metabolism and MVI in acute STEMI.

Modelling total coronary heart disease burden and long-term benefit of cholesterol lowering in middle aged men with and without a history of cardiovascular disease

Aims

Cumulative coronary heart disease (CHD) events over 20 years were examined in men screened for, and in those randomized to, the West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study.

Methods and results

Record linkage provided CHD-related events and days in hospital for the 80 230 screenees, including the randomized cohort of 6595 men. Risk factors were determined at baseline, and disease burden assessed for groups defined by cholesterol. Effects of cholesterol lowering were modelled from differences between groups, and from the treatment arms of the trial. Over 20 years, those without a history of CHD (n = 61 211) had 23.0 events per 100 subjects in the lowest cholesterol group (mean 4.0 mmol/L) and 65.1 per 100 in the highest (8.8 mmol/L). Corresponding days in hospital were 167.2-435.4 per 100 subjects. Analogous figures for men with a CHD history (n = 8570) were 77.3-141.7 events per 100 and 526.1-936.7 hospital days per 100. Lowering cholesterol by about 1.0 mmol/L in men with average cholesterol and no CHD was predicted to be associated with 8.9 fewer events and a saving of 56.0 hospital days per 100. In those with CHD this difference gave, depending on starting level, 26.8-36.5 fewer events and savings of 158.2-247.3 hospital days per 100 subjects. Comparison of cumulative events in 45-54 vs. 55-64 year olds in the trial revealed greater benefit from intervention in the younger decade.

Conclusion

Long-term, longitudinal data reveal the considerable CHD burden in middle-aged men and indicate substantial clinical benefits from both moderate and aggressive cholesterol lowering.

Effect of a short-term dietary supplementation with phytosterols, red yeast rice or both on lipid pattern in moderately hypercholesterolemic subjects: a three-arm, double-blind, randomized clinical trial

Background

Phytosterols and red yeast rice are largely studied cholesterol-lowering nutraceuticals, respectively inhibiting the bowel absorption and liver synthesis of cholesterol. Our aim was to test the effect on lipid profile of phytosterols, red yeast rice and their association.

Methods

We performed a three parallel arms, double blind, clinical trial randomizing 90 moderately hypercholesterolemic subjects to treatment with phytosterols 800 mg (group 1), red yeast rice standardized to contain 5 mg monacolins from Monascus purpureus (group 2), or both combined nutraceuticals (group 3).

Results

After 8 weeks of treatment, in group 1 no significant variation of lipid parameters has been detected. In group 2 a significant reduction (p < 0.001) of LDL-Cholesterol (−20.5% vs. baseline) and Apolipoprotein B (−14.4% vs. baseline) as it occurred in group 3 (LDL-Cholesterol vs. baseline: −27.0%, Apolipoprotein B vs. baseline: -19.0%) (P < 0.001). LDL-Cholesterol and Apolipoprotein B changes were significantly different comparing group 2 with group 1 (P < 0.05), and group 3 with group 1 (P < 0.05). LDL-Cholesterol change was also significantly higher in group 3 than in group 2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The association of phytosterol and red yeast rice seems to have additive cholesterol lowering effect, reaching a clinically significant LDL-Cholesterol reduction in mildly hypercholesterolemic patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrial.gov ID: NCT02603276, Registered 27/08/2015.

Ezetimibe Use and LDL-C Goal Achievement: A Retrospective Database Analysis of Patients with Clinical Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease or Probable Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Ezetimibe is recommended by clinical practice guidelines as a second-line therapy for lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, but little is known about its use and effectiveness in real-world populations.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the real-world impact of adding or switching to ezetimibe on LDL-C goal achievement in patients with clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and/or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).

METHODS

Patients aged ≥ 18 years with an LDL-C measurement available between January 1, 2013, and June 30, 2014, were identified using the Inovalon MORE ² database; this included commercial, health insurance exchange, Medicare Advantage, and managed Medicaid patients. The index date was the date of the first LDL-C measurement. Patients were required to have evidence of clinical ASCVD or probable HeFH based on ICD-9-CM codes and ≥ 1 outpatient pharmacy claim for a statin in the 1-year pre-index period, as well as continuous medical and pharmacy coverage for 1 year pre- and post-index. Patients who added ezetimibe to existing statin therapy or switched to ezetimibe within 90 days post-index LDL-C measurement were identified in order to replicate the typical time a clinician takes to assess the use of ezetimibe. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who met the LDL-C goal of < 70 mg/dL within the follow-up period. LDL-C goal achievement was evaluated by baseline LDL-C level groupings: < 70 mg/dL, 70-99 mg/dL, 100-129 mg/dL, or ≥ 130 mg/dL; and across 4 patient diagnosis categories: all patients, ASCVD only, probable HeFH only, and ASCVD and probable HeFH. Descriptive analyses were reported. Categorical variables were summarized as the number of and corresponding percentage of patients. Continuous variables were presented as the mean and SD of the number of observations and median and range where appropriate.

RESULTS

Of 125,330 patients who met selection criteria, mean age was 70.1 (SD = 9.9) years and mean LDL-C baseline was 90.7 (SD = 34.0) mg/dL. Over one half of patients (70%) were receiving statin therapy. Within the post-index time frame, 1.05% (n = 1,309) of patients added or switched to ezetimibe. Of these, 26% achieved LDL-C goal during the 90-day follow-up (59.5% did not achieve goal and 14.4% did not have a follow-up lab value). Therapeutic targets were reached by 30% of patients with baseline LDL-C levels of 70-99 mg/dL; 14% of those with baseline LDL-C of 100-129 mg/dL; and 7% of those with baseline LDL-C of ≥ 130 mg/dL. Achievement of LDL-C goals also varied by baseline diagnosis category.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of or switch to ezetimibe therapy was associated with a relatively small percentage of LDL-C goal achievement (< 70 mg/dL) in patients with clinical ASCVD and/or HeFH, even among patients with baseline LDL-C between 70 and 99 mg/dL. To provide superior individualized care for patients with hyperlipidemia, there is a potential role for newer therapies in lipid lowering, such as PCSK9 inhibitors, in appropriate high-risk populations.

DISCLOSURES

This study was sponsored by Amgen. Menzin, Yu, and Stern are employees of Boston Health Economics, which was contracted by Amgen to perform this study. Aggarwal is a former employee of Boston Health Economics. Boatman, Patel, and Harrison are employees and stockholders of Amgen. Study concept and design were contributed by Menzin, Aggarwal, Harrison, and Patel. Aggarwal, Stern, and Yu collected the data. Data interpretation was performed by Aggarwal, Harrison, Patel, and Boatman. The manuscript was written and revised primarily by Aggarwal, with assistance from the other authors.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Systematic Review of Guidelines on Genetic Testing and Patient Management

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal-dominant hereditary disorder of lipid metabolism that causes lifelong exposure to increased LDL levels resulting in premature coronary heart disease and, if untreated, death. Recent studies have shown its prevalence to be higher than previously considered, which has important implications for the mortality and morbidity of associated cardiovascular disease (CVD). Several clinical tools are used worldwide to help physicians diagnose FH, but nevertheless most patients remain undetected. This systematic review of guidelines aims to assess the role of genetic testing in the screening, diagnosis, and management of patients affected by heterozygous or homozygous FH and to identify related health-care pathways.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of the literature; inclusion criteria were English or Italian guidelines focusing on genetic testing. The guidelines were included and evaluated for their content and development process using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument.

RESULTS

Ten guidelines were considered eligible, and all were judged to be of good quality, with slight differences among them. The most common indications for performing genetic tests were high levels of cholesterol, or physical findings consistent with lipid disorder, in the subject or in the family history. Subsequent screening of family members was indicated when a mutation had been identified in the index patient. Regarding patient management, the various guidelines agreed that intensive treatment with lipid-lowering medications should begin as quickly as possible and that lifestyle modifications should be an integral part of the therapy.

CONCLUSION

Since the early detection of affected patients is beneficial for effective prevention of CVD, genetic testing is particularly useful for identifying family members via cascade screening and for distinguishing between heterozygous and homozygous individuals, the latter of which require more extreme therapeutic intervention.

Novel treatment options for the management of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

INTRODUCTION

Even though statins represent the mainstay of treatment of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering efficacy is finite and most patients with FH will not achieve LDL-C targets with statin monotherapy. Addition of ezetimibe with or without bile acid sequestrants will also not lead to treatment goals in many of these patients, particularly in those with established cardiovascular disease. In this selected subgroup of the FH population, proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors provide substantial reductions in LDL-C levels, reduce cardiovascular morbidity and appear to be safe. Mipomersen, an antisense single-strand oligonucleotide that inhibits the production of apoB by binding to the mRNA that encodes the synthesis of apoB, and lomitapide, an inhibitor of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, also reduce LDL-C levels but are currently indicated only for the management of homozygous FH. Areas covered: In the present review, the role of PCSK9 inhibitors, mipomersen and lomitapide in the management of FH is briefly discussed. Other LDL-C-lowering agents under evaluation include inclisiran, a small interference RNA molecule that induces long-term inhibition of PSCK9 synthesis, anacetrapib, a cholesterol ester-transfer protein inhibitor, ETC-1002 (bempedoic acid), an inhibitor of adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase, and gemcabene, which reduces hepatic apolipoprotein C-III mRNA. The safety and efficacy of these agents are also reviewed. Expert Commentary: Even though several novel treatment options for heterozygous FH are under development, it remains to be shown whether these treatments will also reduce cardiovascular morbidity in these high-risk patients.

Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Lowering for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Among Men With Primary Elevations of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels of 190 mg/dL or Above: Analyses From the WOSCOPS (West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study) 5-Year Randomized Trial and 20-Year Observational Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Patients with primary elevations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥190 mg/dL are at a higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a result of long-term exposure to markedly elevated LDL-C levels. Therefore, initiation of statin therapy is recommended for these individuals. However, there is a lack of randomized trial evidence supporting these recommendations in primary prevention. In the present analysis, we provide hitherto unpublished data on the cardiovascular effects of LDL-C lowering among a primary prevention population with LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL.

METHODS

We aimed to assess the benefits of LDL-C lowering on cardiovascular outcomes among individuals with primary elevations of LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL without preexisting vascular disease at baseline. We performed post hoc analyses from the WOSCOPS (West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study) randomized, placebo-controlled trial, and observational posttrial long-term follow-up, after excluding individuals with evidence of vascular disease at baseline. WOSCOPS enrolled 6595 men aged 45 to 64 years, who were randomly assigned to pravastatin 40 mg/d or placebo. In the present analyses, 5529 participants without evidence of vascular disease were included, stratified by LDL-C levels into those with LDL-C <190 mg/dL (n=2969; mean LDL-C 178±6 mg/dL) and those with LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL (n=2560; mean LDL-C 206±12 mg/dL). The effect of pravastatin versus placebo on coronary heart disease and major adverse cardiovascular events were assessed over the 4.9-year randomized controlled trial phase and on mortality outcomes over a total of 20 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

Among 5529 individuals without vascular disease, pravastatin reduced the risk of coronary heart disease by 27% (P=0.002) and major adverse cardiovascular events by 25% (P=0.004) consistently among those with and without LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL (P-interaction >0.9). Among individuals with LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL, pravastatin reduced the risk of coronary heart disease by 27% (P=0.033) and major adverse cardiovascular events by 25% (P=0.037) during the initial trial phase and the risk of coronary heart disease death, cardiovascular death, and all-cause mortality by 28% (P=0.020), 25% (P=0.009), and 18% (P=0.004), respectively, over a total of 20 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The present analyses provide robust novel evidence for the short- and long-term benefits of lowering LDL-C for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease among individuals with primary elevations of LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL.

Lipid-lowering nutraceuticals in clinical practice: position paper from an International Lipid Expert Panel

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the possible use of nutraceuticals to improve and optimize dyslipidemia control and therapy. Based on the data from available studies, nutraceuticals might help patients obtain theraputic lipid goals and reduce cardiovascular residual risk. Some nutraceuticals have essential lipid-lowering properties confirmed in studies; some might also have possible positive effects on nonlipid cardiovascular risk factors and have been shown to improve early markers of vascular health such as endothelial function and pulse wave velocity. However, the clinical evidence supporting the use of a single lipid-lowering nutraceutical or a combination of them is largely variable and, for many of the nutraceuticals, the evidence is very limited and, therefore, often debatable. The purpose of this position paper is to provide consensus-based recommendations for the optimal use of lipid-lowering nutraceuticals to manage dyslipidemia in patients who are still not on statin therapy, patients who are on statin or combination therapy but have not achieved lipid goals, and patients with statin intolerance. This statement is intended for physicians and other healthcare professionals engaged in the diagnosis and management of patients with lipid disorders, especially in the primary care setting.

Evolution of silent myocardial ischaemia prevalence and cardiovascular disease risk factor management in Type 2 diabetes over a 10-year period: an observational study

AIMS

To assess the evolution of silent myocardial ischaemia prevalence and of cardiovascular disease risk factor management over 10 years in people with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

This repeated cross-sectional study prospectively included 770 people with Type 2 diabetes who presented at our centre in the period 1999-2009. All had at least one additional cardiovascular disease risk factor, no history of coronary disease and were screened for silent myocardial ischaemia using myocardial perfusion imaging. The prevalence of silent myocardial ischaemia, clinical and biological variables and treatments were collected and compared among participants screened in three periods: 1999 to 2002; 2003 to 2005; and 2006 to 2009. We also identified predictive factors for silent myocardial ischaemia.

RESULTS

Participants had a mean ± sd age of 62.3 ± 9.3 years, 57.4% were men and the mean time from diagnosis of diabetes was 13.4 ± 9.3 years. Overall, silent myocardial ischaemia screening was positive in 13.9% of participants. This prevalence decreased sharply over the 10-year study period (22.6% in 1999-2002, 13.7% in 2003-2005 and 5.9% in 2006-2009; P<0.0001). In parallel, diastolic and systolic blood pressure, HbA_1c and LDL cholesterol significantly decreased and glitazone and statin use increased (all P<0.001). Male gender, peripheral artery disease, diastolic blood pressure >80 mmHg and LDL cholesterol >2.6 mmol/l were independently associated with silent myocardial ischaemia. Further adjustment showed the screening period had a significant effect, which erased the effects of diastolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of silent myocardial ischaemia decreased sharply over time, and control of the main cardiovascular disease risk factors improved. Although the causality link cannot be established, the present study supports current recommendations advocating glycaemic control and intensive management of cardiovascular factors instead of systematic screening.

Patterns of statin non-prescription in patients with established coronary artery disease: A report from a contemporary multicenter Japanese PCI registry

Statin therapy is regarded as an effective medication to reduce cardiovascular events in patients at higher risk for future incidence of coronary artery disease. However, very few studies have been conducted to examine its implementation in non-Western real-world practice. In this study, we sought to describe statin prescription patterns in relation to patient characteristics in a Japanese multicenter percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) registry as a foundation for quality improvement. We studied 15,024 patients that were prospectively enrolled in the Japan Cardiovascular Database-Keio interhospital Cardiovascular Study Registry from January 2009 to August 2014. The overall discharge statin non-prescription rate was 15.2%, without significant interhospital (MOR = 1.01) or annual differences (MOR = 1.13) observed. Hierarchical multivariable logistic regression analysis accounting for regional differences revealed that the presence of chronic kidney disease was associated with higher rates of statin non-prescription (OR 1.87, 95% confidence interval, 1.69-2.08, p value <0.001), and higher age (per 1-year increase) showed a trend for prescription of low-intensity statin (OR 1.00, 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.01, p value = 0.045) within the subset of PCI patients (N = 4,853) enrolled after the year 2011. Our study indicates that patients with chronic kidney disease and elderlies may be the primary targets for maximizing the beneficial effect of statin therapy in post PCI patients.

Key Recent Advances in Atherosclerosis Treatment with Modern Lipid-lowering Drugs: The New Frontier with PCSK9 Inhibitors

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Short-Term Effects of a Combined Nutraceutical on Lipid Level, Fatty Liver Biomarkers, Hemodynamic Parameters, and Estimated Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction

There is a growing interest in nutraceuticals improving cardiovascular risk factor levels and related organ damage.

Methods

This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effect of a combined nutraceutical containing red yeast rice (10 mg), phytosterols (800 mg), and l-tyrosol (5 mg) on lipid profile, blood pressure, endothelial function, and arterial stiffness in a group of 60 patients with polygenic hypercholesterolemia resistant to Mediterranean diet.

Results

After 8 weeks of treatment, when compared to the placebo group, the active treated patients experienced a more favorable percentage change in total cholesterol (−16.3% vs 9.9%, P < 0.001 always), LDL-C (−23.4% vs −13.2%, P < 0.001 always), and hepatic steatosis index (−2.8%, P < 0.01 vs −1.8%, P < 0.05). Moreover, ALT (−27.7%, P < 0.001), AST (−13.8%, P = 0.004), and serum uric acid (−12.3%, P = 0.005) were reduced by the tested nutraceutical compound both compared to randomization and to placebo, which did not affect these parameters (P < 0.01 for all). Regarding the hemodynamic parameters, there was a decrease of systolic blood pressure (−5.6%) with the active treatment not observed with placebo (P < 0.05 vs baseline and placebo) and endothelial reactivity improved, too (−13.2%, P < 0.001 vs baseline). Consequently, the estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk score improved by 1.19% (SE 0.4%) (P = 0.01) in the nutraceutical-treated patients.

Conclusion

The tested nutraceutical association is able to improve the positive effects of a Mediterranean diet on a large number of CV risk factors and consequently of the estimated CV risk.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02492464.

Funding

IBSA Farmaceutici.

Prevalence and Determinants of the Use of Lipid-Lowering Agents in a Population of Older Hospitalized Patients: the Findings from the REPOSI (REgistro POliterapie Società Italiana di Medicina Interna) Study

BACKGROUND

Older patients are prone to multimorbidity and polypharmacy, with an inherent risk of adverse events and drug interactions. To the best of our knowledge, available information on the appropriateness of lipid-lowering treatment is extremely limited.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to quantify and characterize lipid-lowering drug use in a population of complex in-hospital older patients.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 87 units of internal medicine or geriatric medicine in the REPOSI (Registro Politerapie della Società Italiana di Medicina Interna) study, with reference to the 2010 and 2012 patient cohorts. Lipid-lowering drug use was closely correlated with the clinical profiles, including multimorbidity markers and polypharmacy.

RESULTS

2171 patients aged >65 years were enrolled (1057 males, 1114 females, mean age 78.6 years). The patients treated with lipid-lowering drugs amounted to 508 subjects (23.4%), with no gender difference. Atorvastatin (39.3%) and simvastatin (34.0%) were the most widely used statin drugs. Likelihood of treatment was associated with polypharmacy (≥5 drugs) and with higher Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS) score. At logistic regression analysis, the presence of coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, and hypertension were significantly correlated with lipid-lowering drug use, whereas age showed an inverse correlation. Diabetes was not associated with drug treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this in-hospital cohort, the use of lipid-lowering agents was mainly driven by patients' clinical history, most notably the presence of clinically overt manifestations of atherosclerosis. Increasing age seems to be associated with lower prescription rates. This might be indicative of cautious behavior towards a potentially toxic treatment regimen.

World Heart Federation Cholesterol Roadmap

BACKGROUND

The World Heart Federation has undertaken an initiative to develop a series of Roadmaps.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of these is to promote development of national policies and health systems approaches and identify potential roadblocks on the road to effective prevention, detection and management of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC), and strategies for overcoming these. This Roadmap focuses on elevated blood cholesterol, a leading risk factor for myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.

METHODS

Through a review of published guidelines and research papers, and consultation with a committee composed of experts in clinical management of cholesterol and health systems research in LMIC, this Roadmap identifies (1) key interventions for primordial, primary and secondary prevention of CVD through detection, treatment, and management of elevated cholesterol and familial hypercholesterolemia (FH); (2) gaps in implementation of these interventions (knowledge-practice gaps); (3) health system roadblocks to treatment of elevated cholesterol in LMIC; and (4) potential strategies for overcoming these.

RESULTS

Despite strong evidence of the importance of cholesterol levels in primary or secondary prevention of CVD, and the effectiveness of statin therapy for cholesterol lowering and reduction of CVD risk, gaps exist in the detection, treatment, and management of high cholesterol globally. Some potential roadblocks include poor access to laboratory facilities or trained professionals for cholesterol management, low awareness of FH among the general population and health professionals, unaffordability of statins for patient households, and low awareness of the importance of persistent adherence to lipid-lowering medication. Potential solutions include point-of-care testing, provision of free or subsidized lipid-lowering medication, and treatment adherence support using text message reminders.

CONCLUSIONS

Known effective strategies for detection, treatment, and management of elevated cholesterol and FH exist, but there are barriers to their implementation in many low-resource settings. Priorities for health system intervention should be identified at the national level, and the feasibility and effectiveness of proposed solutions should be assessed in specific contexts. Many solutions proposed in this Roadmap may apply to other cardiovascular conditions and present opportunities for integration of CVD care in LMIC.