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Ghulam A, Bonaccio M, Gianfagna F, Costanzo S, Di Castelnuovo A, Gialluisi A, Cerletti C, Donati MB, de Gaetano G, Iacoviello L. Association of perceived mental health with mortality, and analysis of potential pathways in Italian men and women: Prospective results from the Moli-sani Study cohort. J Affect Disord 2024; 360:403-411. [PMID: 38823592 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perceived mental health (PMH) was reportedly associated with mortality in general populations worldwide. However, little is known about sex differences and pathways potentially linking PMH to mortality. We explored the relationship between PMH and mortality in Italian men and women, and analysed potential explanatory factors. METHODS We performed longitudinal analyses on 9045 men and 9467 women (population mean age 53.8 ± 11.2 years) from the Moli-sani Study. Baseline PMH was assessed through a self-administered Short Form 36-item questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95%CI) of death across sex-specific quartiles of PMH, controlling for age, chronic health conditions, and perceived physical health. Socioeconomic, behavioural, and physiological factors were examined as potential explanatory factors of the association between PMH and mortality. RESULTS In women, HRs for the highest (Q4) vs. bottom quartile (Q1) of PMH were 0.75 (95%CI 0.60-0.96) for all-cause mortality and 0.59 (0.40-0.88) for cardiovascular mortality. Part of these associations (25.8 % and 15.7 %, for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, respectively) was explained by physiological factors. In men, higher PMH was associated with higher survival (HR = 0.82; 0.69-0.98, for Q4 vs. Q1) and reduced hazard of other cause mortality (HR = 0.67; 0.48-0.95). More than half of the association with all-cause mortality was explained by physiological factors. LIMITATIONS PMH was measured at baseline only. CONCLUSIONS PMH was independently associated with mortality in men and women. Public health policies aimed at reducing the burden of chronic diseases should prioritize perceived mental health assessment along with other interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwal Ghulam
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Marialaura Bonaccio
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy.
| | - Francesco Gianfagna
- Research Center in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Napoli, Italy
| | - Simona Costanzo
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Gialluisi
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University, Casamassima (Bari), Italy
| | - Chiara Cerletti
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | | | - Giovanni de Gaetano
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Licia Iacoviello
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University, Casamassima (Bari), Italy
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Zhang Z, Yan M, Li Y, Pan Y, Wang S, Xu M, Zhou H, Liu X. The indicative effects of apolipoproteins on organic erectile dysfunction: bridging Mendelian randomization and case-control study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1359015. [PMID: 38938512 PMCID: PMC11208309 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1359015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The existing research on the association between apolipoproteins (Apos) and erectile dysfunction (ED) primarily relies on observational studies and does not distinguish between organic and psychogenic causes when diagnosing ED. It is difficult to believe that Apos play a role in psychogenic ED. To address these issues, our study explored the causal relationship between lipoproteins and ED using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and differentiate between organic and psychogenic ED through the use of nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) monitoring. Multivariate MR analysis revealed significant causal associations between high-density lipoprotein (HDL), Apo A1, and Apo B/A1 with ED (OR and 95% CI were 0.33 (0.14-0.78), 3.58 (1.52-8.43), and 0.30 (0.13-0.66)). we conducted statistical and analytical analyses on the data of 212 patients using multivariate analyses and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Patients with organic ED had significantly lower levels of HDL, Apo A1 and Apo A1/B, whereas patients with organic ED had considerably higher levels of Apo B and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The diagnostic value of Apos in predicting the risk of organic ED was evaluated using ROC curves. The results indicated that Apo A1 and Apo A1/B demonstrated good predictive value. HDL, Apo A1, and Apo A1/B have been identified as risk factors for ED in our study. Furthermore, our research highlights the significance of Apo A1 and Apo A1/Apo B in the development of organic ED and suggests their potential use as indicators to assess the risks associated with organic ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhexin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mo Yan
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuezheng Li
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Pan
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shangren Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Mingming Xu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Harinath G, Zalzala S, Nyquist A, Wouters M, Isman A, Moel M, Verdin E, Kaeberlein M, Kennedy B, Bischof E. The role of quality of life data as an endpoint for collecting real-world evidence within geroscience clinical trials. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 97:102293. [PMID: 38574864 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
With geroscience research evolving at a fast pace, the need arises for human randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy of geroprotective interventions to prevent age-related adverse outcomes, disease, and mortality in normative aging cohorts. However, to confirm efficacy requires a long-term and costly approach as time to the event of morbidity and mortality can be decades. While this could be circumvented using sensitive biomarkers of aging, current molecular, physiological, and digital endpoints require further validation. In this review, we discuss how collecting real-world evidence (RWE) by obtaining health data that is amenable for collection from large heterogeneous populations in a real-world setting can help speed up validation of geroprotective interventions. Further, we propose inclusion of quality of life (QoL) data as a biomarker of aging and candidate endpoint for geroscience clinical trials to aid in distinguishing healthy from unhealthy aging. We highlight how QoL assays can aid in accelerating data collection in studies gathering RWE on the geroprotective effects of repurposed drugs to support utilization within healthy longevity medicine. Finally, we summarize key metrics to consider when implementing QoL assays in studies, and present the short-form 36 (SF-36) as the most well-suited candidate endpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eric Verdin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Brian Kennedy
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Centre for Healthy Longevity, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Evelyne Bischof
- Department of Medical Oncology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China; Sheba Longevity Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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4
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Ahn SS, Heo SJ, Ha JW, Park YB, Lee SW. Clinical association of health-related quality of life and mortality in an antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis cohort. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2024; 64:152353. [PMID: 38128176 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mortality in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). METHODS We searched patients with AAV assessed for HRQoL at initial diagnosis using Short Form 36 (SF-36). Relationships between SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scales and variables were estimated using Pearson's correlation analysis. Contal's and O'Quigley's methods were used to determine optimal SF-36 PCS cut-off for predicting all-cause mortality. The Cox proportional hazards model and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis were used to ascertain prognostic implications of SF-36 scales and mortality. RESULTS The median SF-36 PCS and MCS values of the 189 patients were 47.5 and 53.3, respectively, and 21 (11.1%) patients (microscopic polyangiitis [MPA], n=15; granulomatosis with polyangiitis [GPA], n=6) died during follow-up. SF-36 PCS was significantly but weakly associated with Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score, Five-factor score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein. However, SF-36 MCS was not associated with ESR. In the multivariable Cox analysis, a decrease of SF-36 PCS score by one unit indicated a higher death risk (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.030; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.007, 1.052; p=0.041), which was not for SF-36 MCS. IPTW analysis in a subgroup of MPA and GPA patients revealed increased patient mortality with SF-36 PCS <53.75 independently (HR: 3.249; 95% CI: 1.169, 9.033; p=0.024). CONCLUSION Poor baseline physical functioning associated with premature death in patients with MPA and GPA. HRQoL assessment during initial diagnosis may provide clinical insights for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Soo Ahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Jae Heo
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang Woo Ha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Beom Park
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Won Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Nevarez-Flores AG, Chappell KJ, Morgan VA, Neil AL. Health-Related Quality of Life Scores and Values as Predictors of Mortality: A Scoping Review. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:3389-3405. [PMID: 37653208 PMCID: PMC10682357 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08380-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) can be assessed through measures that can be generic or disease specific, encompass several independent scales, or employ holistic assessment (i.e., the derivation of composite scores). HRQoL measures may identify patients with differential risk profiles. However, the usefulness of generic and holistic HRQoL measures in identifying patients at higher risk of death is unclear. The aim of the present study was to undertake a scoping review of generic, holistic assessments of HRQoL as predictors of mortality in general non-patient populations and clinical sub-populations with specified conditions or risk factors in persons 18 years or older. Five databases were searched from 18 June to 29 June 2020 to identify peer-reviewed published articles. The searches were updated in August 2022. Reference lists of included and cited articles were also searched. Of 2552 articles screened, 110 met criteria for inclusion. Over one-third of studies were from North America. Most studies pertained to sub-populations with specified conditions and/or risk factors, almost a quarter for people with cardiovascular diseases. There were no studies pertaining to people with mental health conditions. Nearly three-quarters of the studies used a RAND Corporation QoL instrument, predominantly the SF-36, and nearly a quarter, a utility instrument, predominantly the EQ-5D. HRQoL was associated with mortality in 67 of 72 univariate analyses (92%) and 100 of 109 multivariate analyses (92%). HRQoL was found to be associated with mortality in the general population and clinical sub-populations with physical health conditions. Whether this relationship holds in people with mental health conditions is not known. HRQoL assessment may be useful for screening and/or monitoring purposes to understand how people perceive their health and well-being and as an indicator of mortality risk, encouraging better-quality and timely patient care to support and maximize what may be a patient's only modifiable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katherine J Chappell
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Vera A Morgan
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Amanda L Neil
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
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Fuentes Artiles R, Euler S, Auschra B, da Silva HB, Niederseer D, Schmied C, von Känel R, Jellestad L. Predictors of gain in exercise capacity through cardiac rehabilitation: Sex and age matter. Heart Lung 2023; 62:200-206. [PMID: 37562338 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a cornerstone of secondary prevention that improves cardiovascular outcomes. However, the determinants of treatment success are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We investigated the associations of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), sex, age, employment status and housing situation with improvement in exercise capacity throughout CR. METHODS We analyzed data from 392 CR outpatients (81% men and 19% women). Exercise capacity at baseline and upon completion of the program was measured with the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD). HRQoL at CR entry was assessed with the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36). RESULTS A multivariable regression analysis revealed that both men and women showed significant improvement in exercise capacity (p < .001). Female sex (B = 18.118, 95% CI 0.341 - 36.035, p = .046) and younger age (B = -0.887, 95% CI -1.463 - -0.312, p = .003) emerged as predictors of greater improvement, while HRQoL, employment status, and housing situation were not associated with significant change in exercise capacity. The final model explained 25% of the variance in exercise capacity change (adjusted R2 = 0.25, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that women and younger participants benefit from CR by improving their exercise capacity. Employment status, housing situation and HRQoL showed no effects on CR outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Fuentes Artiles
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Medicine, Limmattal Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland.
| | - Sebastian Euler
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bianca Auschra
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hadassa Brito da Silva
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Niederseer
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Schmied
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lena Jellestad
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Effect of a Home-Based Mobile Health App Intervention on Physical Activity Levels in Patients With Heart Failure: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2023; 38:128-139. [PMID: 35389920 DOI: 10.1097/jcn.0000000000000911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of mobile health applications (apps) is an effective strategy in supporting patients' self-management of heart failure (HF) in home settings, but it remains unclear whether they can be used to reduce sedentary behaviors and increase overall physical activity levels. AIM The aims of this study were to determine the effect of an 8-week home-based mobile health app intervention on physical activity levels and to assess its effects on symptom burden and health-related quality of life. METHOD In this study, we collected repeated-measures data from 132 participants with HF (60.8 ± 10.47 years) randomized into a usual care group (n = 67) or an 8-week home-based mobile health app intervention group (n = 65). The intervention was tailored to decrease the time spent in sedentary behavior and to increase the time spent in physical activities performed at light or greater intensity levels. Physical activity levels were monitored for 2 weeks before the intervention and during the 8-week intervention using the Samsung mobile health app. Heart failure symptom burden and health-related quality of life were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks from baseline assessment, and immediately post intervention. RESULTS At week 8, all participants in the intervention group demonstrated an increase in the average daily step counts above the preintervention counts (range of increase: 2351-7925 steps/d). Only 29 participants (45%) achieved an average daily step count of 10 000 or higher by week 6 and maintained their achievement to week 8 of the intervention. Repeated-measures analysis of variance showed a significant group-by-time interaction, indicating that the intervention group had a greater improvement in physical activity levels, symptom burden, and health-related quality of life than the usual care group. CONCLUSION Home-based mobile health app-based interventions can increase physical activity levels and can play an important role in promoting better HF outcomes.
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Jin X, Yang S, Lu J, Li Y, Zhao Y, Li D, Wang X, Liu L, Wu M. Exploring the therapeutic mechanism of Baduanjin in the treatment of elderly stable angina pectoris based on the gut microbiota-lipid metabolism spectrum: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1027839. [PMID: 36388277 PMCID: PMC9659974 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1027839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Stable angina pectoris (SAP) often occurs in the elderly and is relatively stable for 1-3 months; however, if patients do not receive effective treatment, life-threatening acute myocardial infarction could occur. Patients with different clinical types of coronary heart disease have different intestinal flora. Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese Qigong, has been used as adjuvant therapy to improve the symptoms of patients with SAP. Objective To determine the effect of Baduanjin exercise on the symptoms of patients with SAP and the intestinal flora, explore the action links and targets of Baduanjin intervention in elderly patients with SAP, and explain its mechanism. Design A single-center, single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. Setting The trial will be conducted at Guang'anmen Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. Participants One hundred and eighty patients aged 60 to 80 years with stable angina pectoris (I-III) were intervened for 8 weeks and followed up for half a year. Interventions Among the screened patients, 180 patients will be randomly assigned to either the Baduanjin or the control group at a 1:1 ratio (exercise duration: for 3-5 times a week, for 8 weeks) of moderate-intensity Baduanjin or free activities. Main and secondary results The main result is the total effective rate for angina pectoris symptoms; secondary results include the duration of angina pectoris, number of angina pectoris episodes per week, nitroglycerin consumption, nitroglycerin reduction rate, Seattle angina score (SAQ), quality of life (SF-36),Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, blood lipid serum hypersensitive C-reactive protein levels, intestinal flora changes, serum changes in the intestinal flora metabolite Trimetlylamine oxide (TMAO), and non-targeted liposome detection. Adverse events will be recorded throughout the experiment, and the data will be analyzed by researchers who did not know about the assignment. Discussion This study provides compelling evidence for at-home use of Baduanjin exercise to relieve SAP-associated symptoms. Trial registration This study was approved by the ethics committee of Guang'anmen Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (2022-121-KY). The trial has been registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registration Center (ChiCTR2200062450).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Jin
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shengjie Yang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yujuan Li
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yixi Zhao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Li
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Longtao Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China,Longtao Liu
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Min Wu
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Assessment of health-related quality of life in patients with heart failure: a cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2022; 20:128. [PMID: 36042486 PMCID: PMC9425984 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-022-02040-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As a precarious clinical condition and a public health problem, heart failure (HF) is associated with a significant burden of morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. As almost all of the published research has been conducted in Western countries, there is a need for culturally relevant studies in Saudi Arabia. This is the first study to investigate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its associated factors among Saudi patients with HF in the Qassim region.
Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the only tertiary care hospital in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia during the period from November 2020 to July 2021. The participants were interviewed face-to-face by trained interviewers using the standard validated 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire for HRQoL assessment. The data were analyzed using STATA version 16. Results The participants included 246 HF patients whose mean (SD) age was 56.7 (10.9) years. A majority of the respondents (80%, n = 197) were male, and 49% (n = 121) had an education level of less than secondary school. The median scores were high for the domains of social functioning (100 points) and bodily pain (75 points) and low for role-physical functioning (25 points). In general, the median scores for the physical and mental component summaries were 58.1 and 63.7, respectively. Patients with an education level less than secondary school were more likely to have a low physical component summary score (aOR 3.00, 95% CI 1.46–6.17), while female patients were more likely to have a low mental component summary score (aOR 2.67, 95% CI 1.38–5.16). Conclusions Health-related quality of life was found to be moderate among these HF patients. Periodic HRQoL assessment is recommended for HF patients to minimize their physical and psychological concerns, particularly for patients with low education levels and female patients.
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Alam R, Patel HD, Su ZT, Cheaib JG, Ged Y, Singla N, Allaf ME, Pierorazio PM. Self-reported quality of life as a predictor of mortality in renal cell carcinoma. Cancer 2021; 128:479-486. [PMID: 34609761 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the utility of self-reported quality of life (QOL) metrics in predicting mortality among all-comers with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and externally tested the findings in a registry of patients with small renal masses. METHODS The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (SEER-MHOS) captured QOL metrics composed of mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores. Regression models assessed associations of MCS and PCS with all-cause, RCC-specific, and non-RCC-specific mortality. Harrell's concordance statistic (the C-index) and the Akaike information criterion (AIC) determined predictive accuracy and parsimony, respectively. Findings were tested in the prospective Delayed Intervention and Surveillance for Small Renal Masses (DISSRM) registry. RESULTS In SEER-MHOS, 1494 patients had a median age of 73.4 years and a median follow-up time of 5.6 years. Each additional MCS and PCS point reduced the hazard of all-cause mortality by 1.3% (95% CI, 0.981-0.993; P < .001) and 2.3% (95% CI, 0.971-0.984; P < .001), respectively. Models with QOL metrics demonstrated higher predictive accuracy (C-index, 72.3% vs 70.1%) and parsimony (AIC, 9376.5 vs 9454.5) than models without QOL metrics. QOL metrics exerted a greater effect on non-RCC-specific mortality than RCC-specific mortality. External testing in the DISSRM registry confirmed these findings with similar results for all-cause mortality. CONCLUSIONS Models with self-reported QOL metrics predicted all-cause mortality in patients with RCC with higher accuracy and parsimony than those without QOL metrics. Physical health was a stronger predictor of mortality than mental health. The findings support the incorporation of QOL metrics into prognostic models and patient counseling for RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ridwan Alam
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hiten D Patel
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zhuo T Su
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joseph G Cheaib
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yasser Ged
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nirmish Singla
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mohamad E Allaf
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Phillip M Pierorazio
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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11
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Aili K, Arvidsson S, Nygren JM. Health related quality of life and buffering factors in adult survivors of acute pediatric lymphoblastic leukemia and their siblings. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2021; 19:55. [PMID: 33579311 PMCID: PMC7881557 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-021-01700-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The improvement in treatment of pediatric acute lymphatic leukemia (ALL) has introduced new challenges for pediatric oncology care in understanding and handling long-term treatment-related complications later in adult life. The aim of this study was to describe health related quality of life (HRQoL) and the relation to buffering factors among young adult (YA) pediatric ALL survivors and their siblings. Methods This cross-sectional study was performed among 227 adults, treated for pediatric ALL in Sweden between 1985 and 1997 and their siblings (n = 70). Group means of HRQoL (SF-36) were compared between YA ALL survivors and the siblings, as well as to normative values from the general population. Self-efficacy (GSES) and social support (SS-13 subscale AVSI) was considering potential buffering factors for HRQoL and mental health. Associations between HRQoL and mental health respectively and self-efficacy and social support was analyzed. Results The YA ALL survivors scored significantly lower on the HRQoL parameters general health (69.6 vs. 78.4, p = 0.004) and role emotional (77.1 vs. 88.1, p = 0.014), than the siblings. Further, they reported significantly lower general health (69.6 vs. 75.8), vitality (56.9 vs. 68.8), social functioning (84.5 vs. 88.6), role emotional (77.1 vs. 85.7) and mental health (71.3 vs. 80.9) compared with Swedish norms. Both YA ALL survivors and the siblings reported lower vitality and worse mental health than the general population. The HRQoL parameters, depression, stress and anxiety were all associated with both self-efficacy and social support among the YA ALL survivors. Among the siblings however, only general health, vitality, role emotional, mental health and depression were associated with social support, and only general health and mental health were associated with general self-efficacy. Conclusion The results from this study show that buffering factors, like social support and self-efficacy, may play an important role for psychosocial outcomes and HRQoL among YA ALL survivors later in life. The results suggest that this group could benefit from continuous support in adult life to handle consequences of their pediatric disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Aili
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden. .,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Susann Arvidsson
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Jens M Nygren
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
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12
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The Suggestive Effect of Apo A, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B on Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2021; 18:448-456. [PMID: 33423974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erectile dysfunction (ED) is closely related to coronary heart disease (CHD). Apolipoprotein (Apo) A1, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B are known to be predictive factors for CHD. They are not yet a definite laboratory marker for the diagnosis of ED in cardiology. Therefore, we investigated the association between Apo A1, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B, and ED. AIM To investigate the association between Apo A, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B and the severity of ED. METHODS A total of 152 ED patients and 39 healthy control participants underwent a fasting blood draw to test for Apo A, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B and a detailed laboratory examination. The International Erectile Function Index (IIEF-5) was used to determine the severity of ED. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to identify the cutoff values for Apo A, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B. Each questionnaire was completed before any diagnosis was made or treatment performed. OUTCOMES Several lipid profile indicators (Apo A, Apo B, Apo A/Apo B, lipoprotein (a), free fatty acids, and total cholesterol) were studied, along with several questionnaires. RESULTS In our study, the number of patients with no ED, mild ED, mild-to-moderate ED, and moderate-to-severe ED were 39 (20.4%), 58 (30.4%), 36 (18.8%), and 58 (30.4%), respectively. Apo A and Apo A/Apo B were significantly reduced in patients with more severe ED (P = .037 and P < .001, respectively), while Apo B was significantly increased in patients with more severe ED (P = .002). According to the ROC curve, Apo A/Apo B had a medium diagnostic value for risk of ED with an AUC of 0.743 (95% CI: 0.68-0.80). For moderate-to-severe ED, 3 apolipoprotein indexes, including Apo B, Apo A, and Apo A/Apo B had medium diagnostic performance with AUCs of 0.759 (95% CI: 0.66-0.84), 0.703 (95% CI: 0.60-0.79), and 0.808 (95% CI: 0.72-0.88), respectively. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Our results can inform cardiologists in the assessment of ED in patients with CHD. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study is the first to investigate the association between apolipoprotein and ED in China. The major limitations are that our sample size was too small to have matched controls without ED for different Apo levels. CONCLUSION Our results showed that Apo B, Apo A, and Apo A/Apo B can be used as markers to evaluate the risk of ED and that these proteins play an important role in the etiology of ED. Li X, Li D. The Suggestive Effect of Apo A, Apo B, and Apo A/Apo B on Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2021;18:448-456.
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Bundgaard JS, Thune JJ, Gislason G, Fosbøl EL, Torp-Pedersen C, Aagaard D, Nielsen JC, Haarbo J, Thøgersen AM, Videbæk L, Jensen G, Olesen LL, Kristensen SL, Pedersen SS, Køber L, Mogensen UM. Quality of life and the associated risk of all-cause mortality in nonischemic heart failure. Int J Cardiol 2020; 305:92-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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Estimating quality of life with biomarkers among older Korean adults: A machine-learning approach. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 87:103966. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2019.103966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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15
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Nilsson E, Festin K, Lowén M, Kristenson M. SF-36 predicts 13-year CHD incidence in a middle-aged Swedish general population. Qual Life Res 2019; 29:971-975. [PMID: 31722083 PMCID: PMC7142035 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-019-02362-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To study the predictive ability of each of the eight scales of SF-36 on 13-year all-cause mortality and incident coronary heart disease (CHD) in a general middle-aged population.
Methods The population-based, longitudinal “Life-conditions, Stress and Health” study, in 2003–2004 enrolled 1007 persons aged 45–69 years (50% female), randomly sampled from the general population in Östergötland, Sweden. Variables at baseline included the SF-36 (health-related quality of life, HRQoL) and self-reported disease. Incident CHD (morbidity and mortality) and all-cause mortality data for the study population during the first 13 years from baseline were obtained from national Swedish registries. Results Seven of the eight SF-36 scales predicted CHD (sex- and age-adjusted Hazard Ratios up to 2.15; p ≤ 0.05), while only the Physical Functioning scale significantly predicted all-cause mortality. Further adjustments for presence of (self-reported) disease did not, in most cases, alter these significant predictions. Conclusion Low SF-36 scores predict risk of CHD, also after adjustment for present disease, supporting the biopsychosocial model of health and disease. Measures of HRQoL yield important information and can add to the cardiopreventive toolbox, including primary prevention efforts, as it is such a simple and relatively inexpensive tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evalill Nilsson
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Karin Festin
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mats Lowén
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Health and Care Development, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Margareta Kristenson
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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16
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Abu-Haniyeh A, Shah NP, Wu Y, Cho L, Ahmed HM. Predictors of cardiorespiratory fitness improvement in phase II cardiac rehabilitation. Clin Cardiol 2018; 41:1563-1569. [PMID: 30350419 DOI: 10.1002/clc.23101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and has been shown to reduce cardiovascular events and death. However, data about predictors of fitness improvement during CR are limited and conflicting. The objective of this study was to determine predictors of improvement in metabolic equivalents of task (METs) based on formal exercise testing throughout phase II CR. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 20 671 patients enrolled in phase II CR at our center from 2006 to 2016. Patients who completed 36 sessions and had entry and exit exercise stress tests were included for study. The short form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire was used to assess quality-of-life. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of METs improvement. RESULTS Of the full cohort, 827 patients completed 36 sessions and had entry/exit stress test data. The majority of patients (N = 647, 78.2%) had improvement in METs (mean Δ 2.0 ± 1.2 METs), including patients ≥65 and < 65 years old (77% vs 79%, P = 0.46 for difference). METs improvement was negatively associated with body mass index, diabetes, left ventricular dysfunction, and poor baseline fitness; and positively associated with SF-36 score (P < 0.05 for all). After multivariable adjustment, improvement was no longer affected by age, ejection fraction, or baseline fitness. Patients with poor fitness (≤5 METS) and adequate fitness (> 5 METS) both had improvement, with no statistical difference between the groups (P = 0.36). CONCLUSIONS In a large cohort of phase II CR patients, improvement in CRF was seen in the majority of patients across all ages, genders, and levels of baseline fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nishant P Shah
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Yuping Wu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Leslie Cho
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Haitham M Ahmed
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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17
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Zurita-Cruz JN, Manuel-Apolinar L, Arellano-Flores ML, Gutierrez-Gonzalez A, Najera-Ahumada AG, Cisneros-González N. Health and quality of life outcomes impairment of quality of life in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2018; 16:94. [PMID: 29764429 PMCID: PMC5952418 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-018-0906-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a chronic disease, and for treatment to succeed, it is necessary to harmonize the mental health of the patient with the environment, which impacts quality of life and adherence to medical regimens. The objetive of this study is describe the quality of life of patients with DM2 and the factors relates to its modification. METHODS This investigation was a cross-sectional study. Patients over 18 years of age with DM2 were selected. The following variables related to quality of life were studied: age, sex, occupation, marital status, years of DM2 evolution, comorbidities and presence of depression (Beck Depression Inventory). Perceived quality of life was measured with a health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scale, the 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36). Patients were classified according to SF-36 HRQoL score (< 50, 51-75 and > 76 points). RESULTS Among the 1394 patients included, the median age was 62 years. Global HRQoL had a median of 50.1 points. Bivariate analysis showed that age, marital status, sex, occupation, comorbidities, duration of DM2 and comorbidities had impacts on HRQoL. The logistic regression model identified age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04) and depression (OR 4.4) as independent factors that influenced overall quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Patients with DM2 have poor HRQoL, which is associated with a high frequency of depression. Older age and the presence of depression impair patient HRQoL. TRIAL REGISTRATION R-2013-781-052. Registered 20 December 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie N. Zurita-Cruz
- Unit of Research in Medical Nutrition, Pediatric Hospital “Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI”, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leticia Manuel-Apolinar
- Endocrine Research Unit, Centro Medico Nacional, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María Luisa Arellano-Flores
- Endocrine Research Unit, Centro Medico Nacional, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Alma Gloria Najera-Ahumada
- Division of Prenatal Care and Family Planning Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nelly Cisneros-González
- Epidemiological Surveillance Coordination, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
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18
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Berg SK, Thorup CB, Borregaard B, Christensen AV, Thrysoee L, Rasmussen TB, Ekholm O, Juel K, Vamosi M. Patient-reported outcomes are independent predictors of one-year mortality and cardiac events across cardiac diagnoses: Findings from the national DenHeart survey. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018; 26:624-637. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487318769766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims Patient-reported quality of life and anxiety/depression scores provide important prognostic information independently of traditional clinical data. The aims of this study were to describe: (a) mortality and cardiac events one year after hospital discharge across cardiac diagnoses; (b) patient-reported outcomes at hospital discharge as a predictor of mortality and cardiac events. Design A cross-sectional survey with register follow-up. Methods Participants: All patients discharged from April 2013 to April 2014 from five national heart centres in Denmark. Main outcomes Patient-reported outcomes: anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale); perceived health (Short Form-12); quality of life (HeartQoL and EQ-5D); symptom burden (Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale). Register data: mortality and cardiac events within one year following discharge. Results There were 471 deaths among the 16,689 respondents in the first year after discharge. Across diagnostic groups, patients reporting symptoms of anxiety had a two-fold greater mortality risk when adjusted for age, sex, marital status, educational level, comorbidity, smoking, body mass index and alcohol intake (hazard ratio (HR) 1.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52–2.42). Similar increased mortality risks were found for patients reporting symptoms of depression (HR 2.29, 95% CI 1.81–2.90), poor quality of life (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.39–0.54) and severe symptom distress (HR 2.47, 95% CI 1.92–3.19). Cardiac events were predicted by poor quality of life (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.65–0.77) and severe symptom distress (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.35–1.85). Conclusions Patient-reported mental and physical health outcomes are independent predictors of one-year mortality and cardiac events across cardiac diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina K Berg
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Denmark
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Charlotte B Thorup
- Department of Cardiology and Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Clinical Nursing Research Unit, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Britt Borregaard
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anne V Christensen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Lars Thrysoee
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | | | - Ola Ekholm
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Knud Juel
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Marianne Vamosi
- Aarhus University, Institute of Public Health, Section of Nursing Science. Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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Kowall B, Stang A. Measurement is always better than self-report: is it that easy? Sleep Med 2017; 38:157. [PMID: 28847620 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2017.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Kowall
- Center of Clinical Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Andreas Stang
- Center of Clinical Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston University, 715 Albany Street, Talbot Building, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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