ACCF/AHA 2011 expert consensus document on hypertension in the elderly: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation Task Force on Clinical Expert Consensus Documents developed in collaboration with the American Academy of Neurology, American Geriatrics Society, American Society for Preventive Cardiology, American Society of Hypertension, American Society of Nephrology, Association of Black Cardiologists, and European Society of Hypertension

HDL Levels as a Novel Predictor of Long-Term Adverse Outcomes in Patients with Heart Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

The role of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in heart failure (HF) outcomes is contentious. We aimed to assess HDL-C's prognostic value in HF patients.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study (2012-2022) at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, we analyzed 4442 patients, categorized by HDL-C quartiles. We applied the Cox proportional hazards model to assess survival and report hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Over a decade, we recorded 1354 fatalities (42.3%) and 820 readmissions. The third HDL-C quartile (0.93-1.14 mmol/L) showed the lowest mortality rates, with reduced risks in the second and third quartiles compared to the first (Q2 HR=0.809, 95% CI 0.590-1.109; Q3 HR=0.794, 95% CI 0.564-1.118). The fourth quartile presented a lower mortality risk compared to the first (Q4 HR=0.887, 95% CI 0.693-1.134). A significant correlation existed between HDL-C levels and cardiovascular risk (HR=0.85, 95% CI 0.75-0.96, p<0.01).

Conclusion

HDL-C levels exhibit a complex association with mortality in HF, indicating the importance of HDL-C in HF prognosis and the need for tailored management strategies.

Beta Blockers are Associated with Increased Mortality Without a Decrease in Reinterventions After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Repair (EVAR)

INTRODUCTION

Predictors of sac behavior after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) and the impact of sac behavior on long-term survival are not well known. There are limited multicenter trials studying the impact of beta blockers (BBs) on sac behavior. BBs have consistently failed to show a benefit on abdominal aortic aneurysm sac regression in patients with connective tissue disorders and the general population. This study aims to assess the association between BBs and sac behavior after EVAR.

METHODS

Patients undergoing EVAR registered in Vascular Quality Initiative (2003-2021) stratified by BB and no BB on discharged after an index procedure were assessed at follow-up of 30 days and 1 year. The primary outcomes included mortality and reintervention at 30 days and 1 year. The causes of reintervention were also studied at the defined time endpoints. Categorical and continuous variables were analyzed separately for association between the 2 groups. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 50,411 patients, stratified by BB (28,866; 57.3%), and no BB (21,545; 42.7%) were studied. Patients with hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, prior history of coronary artery bypass graft or percutaneous coronary intervention, prior angioplasty or stent, lower extremity bypass, carotid surgery, major amputation, and smokers were more likely to be on a BB at the time of discharge (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in reinterventions when comparing patients with and without BB (P = 0.061). At 30-day follow-up, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups for any cause of reintervention. At 1-year follow-up, patients on BB were less likely to need reintervention for graft occlusion (no BB 18.70%, BB 11.77%, P = 0.002). There was no significant difference in reintervention for all other causes at 1-year follow-up. There was an increase in 30-day (no BB 0.20%, BB 0.33%, P = 0.007) and 1-year mortality (no BB 2.35%, BB 3.19%, P < 0.001) in patients on BBs. A time to event adjusted analysis based on Cox proportional hazard model revealed a 26% higher risk of 1-year mortality for patients on BB (hazard ratio: 1.26 [1.10-1.41] P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite theoretical benefits of BBs on aneurysm behavior, review of the largest national vascular surgery database shows that patients on BBs do not have lower incidence of endovascular reinterventions after EVAR while additionally showing a higher mortality in this patient population.

Red cell distribution width to albumin ratio is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation in subjects hospitalized with coronary angiography

BACKGROUND

Red cell distribution width to albumin ratio (RAR) has been demonstrated to be associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, it is still unknown whether the RAR affects atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between RAR and AF in subjects hospitalized with coronary angiography.

METHODS

A total of 2436 participants were retrospectively included. Red cell distribution width, albumin and other data were collected. AF was confirmed using 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) or 24-h Holter. All participants were divided into four groups according to the RAR values by quartile (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to examine the correlation between RAR and AF.

RESULTS

Among the 2436 participants, 227 (9.3%) AF cases were observed. The RDW and RAR were significantly higher in AF group than in non-AF group (all P < 0.001). Univariate logistic regression showed an positive association between RAR and AF (P < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression, RAR was found to be an independent risk factor of AF after adjusting for confounding factors (OR:2.015, 95%CI:1.315-3.089, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicated that elevated RAR level was independently correlated with increased risk of AF in subjects hospitalized with coronary angiography.

Factors influencing blood pressure variability in postmenopausal women: evidence from the China Health and Nutrition Survey

BACKGROUND

The aim is to identify the factors influencing blood pressure variability in postmenopausal women based on the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The data on postmenopausal women between 1993 and 2015 were extracted from the CHNS. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to analyze the development track of blood pressure changes, based on which the subjects were separately divided into two groups for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed to analyze the factors influencing SBP and DBP.

RESULTS

A total of 346 women were eligible for the study. Group-based trajectory modeling showed two different trajectories of blood pressure, including the low-level, slowly developed type and the high-level, rapidly developed, stable type of SBP, as well as the low-level, slowly developed type and the high-level, slowly developed type of DBP. In multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.118, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.082-1.156), body mass index (BMI) (OR: 2.239, 95%CI: 1.010-4.964), antihypertensive agents (OR: 7.293, 95%CI: 2.191-24.275), hip circumference (OR: 1.069, 95%CI: 1.014-1.128) and marital status (OR: 3.103, 95%CI: 1.028-9.361) were found to be the significant factors influencing SBP; age (OR: 1.067, 95%CI: 1.039-1.096), alcohol consumption (OR: 2.741, 95%CI: 1.169-6.429), antihypertensive agents (OR: 4.577, 95%CI: 1.553-13.492), hip circumference (OR: 1.093, 95%CI: 1.049-1.138), and marital status (OR: 3.615, 95%CI: 1.228-10.644) were the predominant factors influencing DBP.

CONCLUSIONS

In postmenopausal women, age, BMI, antihypertensive agents, hip circumference, and marital status are associated with SBP changes, while age, alcohol consumption, antihypertensive agents, hip circumference, and marital status with DBP variability.

MESH KEYWORDS

postmenopausal women, blood pressure, development track, influencing factors, CHNS.

Association Between Renalase Gene Polymorphism (rs2296545) and Hypertension in Egyptian Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Background Renalase gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of essential hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. One of these polymorphisms is a common missense (rs2296545) polymorphism, which was reported to be related to hypertension. The aim of this work was to investigate the possible relation between renalase gene polymorphism (rs2296545) and hypertension in patients with CKD patients. Subjects and methods Ninety patients were included in this case-control study: 30 normotensive CKD patients, 30 hypertensive CKD patients, and 30 apparently healthy controls. Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from peripheral whole blood, and renalase gene (rs2296545) polymorphism was genotyped in all patients and controls by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Odds ratios (OR) and their 95% CIs were calculated. Results We found that the CC genotype and the C allele renalase (rs2296545) were statistically associated with the risk of CKD (OR= 9.4; 95%CI 1.2-7.2; P= 0.036) and (OR= 3.78; 95%CI 1.57-9.08; P= 0.003), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the hypertensive CKD patients and the controls regarding the CC genotypes and the C allele, (26.7% versus 3.3%, P= 0.018) and (40% versus 11.7%, P< 0.001) for the CC genotype and the C allele, respectively. The mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure were higher in the normotensive CKD patients with the CC genotype compared to other genotypes (P= 0.014 and P= 0.022, respectively) and also were higher in hypertensive CKD patients with the CC genotype when compared to other genotypes (P= 0.001 for both). Conclusion This study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the renalase gene (rs2296545) CC genotype and the C allele in CKD patients, especially hypertensive CKD.

Telemonitoring and protocolized case management for hypertensive community dwelling older adults (TECHNOMED): a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Home blood pressure (BP) telemonitoring combined with case management leads to BP reductions in individuals with hypertension. However, its benefits are less clear in older (age ≥ 65 years) adults.

METHODS

Twelve-month, open-label, randomized trial of community-dwelling older adults comparing the combination of home BP telemonitoring (HBPM) and pharmacist-led case management, vs. enhanced usual care with HBPM alone. The primary outcome was the proportion achieving systolic BP targets on 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM). Changes in HBPM were also examined. Logistic and linear regressions were used for analyses, adjusted for baseline BP.

RESULTS

Enrollment was stopped early due to coronavirus disease 2019. Participants randomized to intervention (n = 61) and control (n = 59) groups were mostly female (77%), with mean age 79.5 years. The adjusted odds ratio for ABPM BP target achievement was 1.48 (95% confidence interval 0.87-2.52, P = 0.15). At 12 months, the mean difference in BP changes between intervention and control groups was -1.6/-1.1 for ABPM (P-value 0.26 for systolic BP and 0.10 for diastolic BP), and -4.9/-3.1 for HBPM (P-value 0.04 for systolic BP and 0.01 for diastolic BP), favoring the intervention. Intervention group participants had hypotension (systolic BP < 110) more frequently (21% vs. 5%, P = 0.009), but no differences in orthostatic symptoms, syncope, non-mechanical falls, or emergency department visits.

CONCLUSIONS

Home BP telemonitoring and pharmacist case management did not improve achievement of target range ambulatory BP, but did reduce home BP. It did not result in major adverse consequences.

TASC (Telehealth After Stroke Care): a study protocol for a randomized controlled feasibility trial of telehealth-enabled multidisciplinary stroke care in an underserved urban setting

Background

Hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor for recurrent stroke, and blood pressure (BP) reduction is associated with decreased risk of stroke recurrence. However, hypertension remains poorly controlled in many stroke survivors. Black and Hispanic patients have a higher prevalence of uncontrolled BP and higher rates of stroke. Limited access to care contributes to challenges in post-stroke care. Telehealth After Stroke Care (TASC) is a telehealth intervention that integrates remote BP monitoring (RBPM) including nursing telephone support, tailored BP infographics and telehealth video visits with a multidisciplinary team approach including pharmacy to improve post-stroke care and reduce stroke disparities.

Methods

In this pilot trial, 50 acute stroke patients with hypertension will be screened for inclusion prior to hospital discharge and randomized to usual care or TASC. Usual care patients will be seen by a primary care nurse practitioner at 1–2 weeks and a stroke neurologist at 1 and 3 months. In addition to these usual care visits, TASC intervention patients will see a pharmacist at 4 and 8 weeks and will be enrolled in RBPM consisting of home BP monitoring with interval calls by a centralized team of telehealth nurses. As part of RBPM, TASC patients will be provided with a home BP monitoring device and electronic tablet that wirelessly transmits home BP data to the electronic health record. They will also receive tailored BP infographics that help explain their BP readings. The primary outcome will be feasibility including recruitment, adherence to at least one video visit and retention rates. The clinical outcome for consideration in a subsequent trial will be within-patient change in BP from baseline to 3 months after discharge. Secondary outcomes will be medication adherence self-efficacy and satisfaction with post-stroke telehealth, both measured at 3 months. Additional patient reported outcomes will include depression, cognitive function, and socioeconomic determinants. Multidisciplinary team competency and fidelity measures will also be assessed.

Conclusions

Integrated team-based interventions may improve BP control and reduce racial/ethnic disparities in post-stroke care. TASC is a post-acute stroke care model that is novel in providing RBPM with tailored infographics, and a multidisciplinary team approach including pharmacy. Our pilot will determine if such an approach is feasible and effective in enhancing post-stroke BP control and promoting self-efficacy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04640519

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40814-022-01025-z.

Relationship Between the Triglyceride Glucose Index and the Risk of First Stroke in Elderly Hypertensive Patients

Background

Several recent studies have shown the relationship between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and the risk of stroke in the general population and in a few patient cohorts; however, the role of the TyG index on stroke risk in elderly hypertensive patients has not been determined. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association of the TyG index with first stroke and first ischemic stroke in elderly individuals with hypertension.

Methods

We included 8487 elderly subjects with hypertension from the China H-type Hypertension Registry Study for the current analysis. The TyG index was calculated as ln (fasting triglyceride [mg/dL] × fasting glucose [mg/dL]/2). Outcomes were the first stroke and first ischemic stroke.

Results

During a median follow-up of 1.72 years, the first stroke was diagnosed in 82 patients (0.97%), and the first ischemic stroke was diagnosed in 48 patients (0.57%). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models revealed that the TyG index was positively associated with the risk of first stroke (per 1-unit increment; HR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.07, 2.76) and first ischemic stroke (HR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.32, 4.05). When the TyG index was assessed as quartiles, significantly higher risks of first stroke (HR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.04, 3.45) and first ischemic stroke (HR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.16, 5.20) were found in participants in quartile 4 compared with those in quartiles 1–3.

Conclusion

The TyG index is potentially useful in the early identification of elderly hypertensive patients at high risk of experiencing a first stroke.

N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and adverse outcomes in Chinese patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Background: Although numerous studies have suggested that elevated N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is positively correlated with cardiovascular events, especially the heart failure and heart failure-related death (HFRD), evidence of the association between NT-proBNP and the adverse outcomes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is still relatively limited. The present study was performed to evaluate the relationship between NT-proBNP and outcomes in patients with HCM.

Methods: Observational cohort methodology was used in the present study, and a total of 227 patients were included. And the patients were followed for 44.97 ± 16.37 months. Patients were categorized into three groups according to these NT-proBNP tertiles: first tertile (≤910 pg/ml, n=68), second tertile (913–2141 pg/ml, n=68), and third tertile (≥2151 pg/ml, n=69). The adverse outcomes of the present study were all-cause death (ACD) and cardiac death (CD).

Results: According to the risk category of NT-proBNP, the incidence of ACD (P=0.005) and CD (P=0.032) among the three groups showed significant differences. Multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that the ACD and CD in the third tertile have 7.022 folds (hazard risk [HR] = 7.022 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.397–35.282], P=0.018) and 7.129 folds (HR = 7.129 [95% CI: 1.329–38.237], P=0.022) increased risks as compared with those in the first tertile. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses showed that the cumulative risks of ACD and CD in patients with HCM tended to increase.

Conclusion: The present study indicated NT-proBNP was a novel biomarker suitable for predicting adverse prognosis in patients with HCM, which may be used for early recognition and risk stratification.

Impacts of type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension on the incidence of cardiovascular diseases and stroke in China real-world setting: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HTN) has notably increased in recent years. However, there is little evidence from large-scale studies assessing the joint effect of T2DM and HTN on the risk of cardiovascular events in China. This study was performed to investigate the association of T2DM and HTN with the incidence of combined vascular events (VEs) and stroke in China.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Data were collected from the SuValue database which includes the electronic medical records of >90 million patients from 161 hospitals across 18 provinces in China.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥18 with a diagnosis of T2DM and/or HTN were included. Non-T2DM and non-HTN patients were included in this study as controls.

OUTCOMES

Incidence of combined VEs and stroke during the study.

RESULTS

In the current study, 8012 patients with T2DM, 9653 patients with HTN, 3592 patients with both T2DM and HTN and 10 561 patients without T2DM or HTN were included. T2DM was significantly associated with combined VE and stroke risk (HR 1.332, 95% CI 1.134 to 1.565 and HR 1.584, 95% CI 1.246 to 2.014, respectively). HTN was significantly associated with combined VE and stroke risk (HR 3.244, 95% CI 2.946 to 3.572 and HR 4.543, 95% CI 3.918 to 5.268, respectively). T2DM combined with HTN was significantly associated with combined VE and stroke risk (HR 3.002, 95% CI 2.577 to 3.497 and HR 4.151, 95% CI 3.346 to 5.149, respectively). HTN was associated with a higher combined VE and stroke risk than T2DM (HR 2.435, 95% CI 2.113 to 2.805 and HR 2.868, 95% CI 2.341 to 3.513, respectively).

CONCLUSION

T2DM and HTN were strongly associated with combined VE and stroke risk; however, the HTN-only group had a higher combined VE and stroke risk than the T2DM-only group.

Association of Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure With All-Cause Mortality Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Prospective Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) with mortality among older adults in Singapore.

METHODS

Association of SBP and DBP measured in 2009 for 4443 older adults (69.5±7.4 years; 60-97 years) participating in a nationally representative study with mortality risk through end-December 2015 was assessed using Cox regression.

RESULTS

Higher mortality risk was observed at the lower and upper extremes of SBP and DBP. With SBP of 100-119 mmHg as the reference, multivariable mortality hazard ratios [HRs (95% confidence interval)] were SBP <100 mmHg: 2.41 (1.23-4.72); SBP 160-179 mmHg: 1.51 (1.02-2.22); and SBP ≥180 mmHg: 1.78 (1.12-2.81). With DBP of 70-79 mmHg as the reference, HRs were DBP <50 mmHg: 2.41 (1.28-4.54) and DBP ≥110 mmHg: 2.16 (1.09-4.31).

DISCUSSION

Management of high blood pressure among older adults will likely reduce their mortality risk. However, the association of excessively low SBP and DBP values with mortality risk needs further evaluation.

Diagnostic and Predictive Values of LAP in Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chinese Population Older Than 65 Years

This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of lipid accumulation product (LAP) in hypertension in Chinese population older than 65 years. A total of 2092 adults from the communities in Pudong New Area of Shanghai were included in this cross-sectional study. The participants filled in questionnaire and received anthropometric and laboratory examinations. The receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) was used to analyze the predictive value of different risk factors in hypertension. Results showed that LAP was closely related to hypertension (adjusted OR: 1.011, 95% CI: 1.007-1.015). In females, LAP, fasting blood glucose (FPG), and body mass index (BMI) were associated with hypertension; in males, triglycerides (TG) and waist circumference (WC) were related to hypertension. LAP (AUC = 0.655, 95% CI: 0.632-0.679) was better than neck circumference (NC) and BMI in predicting hypertension. When the cutoff value was 33.5, LAP had the best predictive performance. In males, LAP at 36.72 and 56.76 had the best predictive performance in males (AUC = 0.663, 95% CI: 0.629-0.697) and females (AUC = 0.650, 95% CI: 0.618-0.682), respectively. In conclusion, LAP is a risk factor of hypertension in the elderly. For hypertension, BMI, FPG, and LAP have favorable predictive performance in females, and WC and TG have better predictive performance in males.

Different Performance of Liver Stiffness Measurement According to Etiology and Outcome for the Prediction of Liver-Related Events

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography (TE) has shown promising results for prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatic decompensation in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). However, whether prognostic performance of TE differs according to etiology or type of outcome remains further clarification.

METHODS

Performance of LSM for the prediction of HCC and hepatic decompensation was analyzed in a cohort of 4026 patients with asymptomatic CLD.

RESULTS

During median 4.5 years of follow-up (range 3.0-6.2 years), liver-related events (LRE) were observed in 196 patients (166 with HCC, 45 with hepatic decompensation, and 15 with both). In the multivariate analysis, LSM was independent factor associated with LRE and showed high AUROC (0.78). When stratified by type of outcome and etiology of liver disease, LSM showed high AUROC for the prediction of HCC for patients with non-viral hepatitis (0.89), while it showed relatively low AUROC for the prediction of HCC for patients with viral hepatitis (0.75). For the prediction of hepatic decompensation, LSM showed high AUROC for patients with both viral- and non-viral hepatitis (0.90, 0.90, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

LSM showed powerful prognostic role for the prediction of LRE in patients with CLD. Notably, HCC risk was not negligible in patients with viral hepatitis who showed LSM value < 10 kPa, indicating watchful attention for HCC is still needed for viral hepatitis patients with low LSM.

Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Score Predicts the Mortality of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is caused by the blockage or spasm of coronary arteries. Evidence shows that liver disease is related to CHD. However, the correlation between the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and outcomes in patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was unclear.

Method

A retrospective cohort study involved 5373 patients with coronary heart disease after PCI was conducted from January 2008 to December 2016. Participants were classified to four groups according to the MELD score by quartiles. The primary endpoint was long-term mortality including all-case mortality (ACM) and cardiac mortality (CM). Secondary endpoints included bleeding events, readmission, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), major adverse cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). The longest follow-up time was almost 10 years.

Results

There were significant differences in the incidences of ACM (p=0.038) and CM (p=0.027) among the four MELD groups, but there was no significant difference in MACEs (p=0.496), MACCEs (p=0.234), readmission (p=0.684), and bleeding events (p=0.232). After adjusting the age, gender, smoking, drinking status, and diabetes by a multivariable Cox regression analysis, MELD remains independently associated with ACM (HR:1.57, 95%CI 1.052–2.354, p=0.027) and CM (HR:1.434, 95% CI 1.003–2.050, p=0.048).

Conclusion

This study indicated that the MELD score had a strong prediction for long-term mortality in CHD patients who underwent PCI.

Association between systolic blood pressure and first ischemic stroke in the Chinese older hypertensive population

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the association between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and first ischemic stroke in older people with hypertension in the community.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 3315 residents who were hypertensive and older than 60 years in Guangdong, China.

Results

A total of 1475 men and 1840 women aged 71.41±7.20 years were included. All subjects had a median follow-up duration for 5.5 years and 206 subjects reached the endpoint. The prevalence of first ischemic stroke increased with a higher SBP. SBP expressed as a continuous variable (hazard ratio [HR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.02) and categorical variable (HRs, 1.00, 1.06, 1.17, 1.39, and 1.60 for increasing blood pressure from  < 120–≥150 mmHg), was significantly associated with a higher risk of first ischemic stroke. Moreover, a fully adjusted model indicated an obvious increased risk in the SBP ≥150 mmHg group (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.15–2.71) and the SBP 140–149 mmHg group (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.01–2.39).

Conclusions

High SBP was independently associated with the risk of first ischemic stroke in hypertensive residents in the community aged older than 60 years. SBP ≥140 mmHg increases the risk of first ischemic stroke.

The interactive association between sodium intake, alcohol consumption and hypertension among elderly in northern China: a cross-sectional study

Background

Hypertension is a worldwide public health problem. We sought to examine the interactive associations among sodium intake, alcohol consumption and hypertension among older adult residents of Inner Mongolia in northern China.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the National Survey for Nutrition and Adult Chronic Disease in Inner Mongolia. The prevalence of hypertension was age standardized by the direct method. Sodium intake and alcohol consumption were estimated using a weighing method and 24-h recalls on 3 consecutive days. Hypertension was either self-reported or field-measured. Participants were categorized into six subgroups according to combinations of sodium intake status and drinking level. Logistic regression was used to determine the interactive effect of sodium intake and drinking on hypertension.

Results

Of the 820 older adults who participated in this study, 523 (63.80%, age-standardized rate = 62.33%) had been diagnosed with hypertension. The mean sodium intake was 4.88 g. Sodium intake and drinking excessively were both independently related to higher risk of hypertension. A formal test for a multiplicative interaction between sodium intake and drinking revealed a significant interaction (p = 0.042), and the multivariable-adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) for the interaction was 1.1 (1.0–1.3). After adjusting for confounders, compared with moderate sodium intake and no drinking group, the risk of hypertension was highest among those with both excessive sodium intake and excessive alcohol consumption, with an odds ratio of 3.6 (95% CI: 1.7–7.9).

Conclusions

The study highlights the interactive effect of sodium intake and alcohol consumption on hypertension. Primary health care providers should pay special attention to older adults with hypertension—especially those with an unhealthy diet including both excessive sodium and excessive alcohol intake. These findings are applicable for older adults in Inner Mongolia and worldwide.

Fasting blood glucose to HDL-C ratio as a novel predictor of clinical outcomes in non-diabetic patients after PCI

Background The present study was to assess the prognostic value of fasting blood glucose to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (GHR) in non-diabetic patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods and results A total of 6645 non-diabetic patients from two independent cohorts, the CORFCHD-PCI study (n=4282) and the CORFCHD-ZZ (n=2363) study, were enrolled in Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease after PCI. Patients were divided into two groups according to the GHR value. The primary outcome included all-cause mortality (ACM) and cardiac mortality (CM). The average follow-up time was 36.51 ± 22.50 months. We found that there were significant differences between the two groups in the incidences of ACM (P=0.013) and CM (P=0.038). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed GHR as an independent prognostic factor for ACM. The incidence of ACM increased 1.284-times in patients in the higher GHR group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.284 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.010-1.631], P<0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis suggested that patients with high GHR value tended to have an increased accumulated risk of ACM. However, we did not find significant differences in the incidence of major adverse cardiac events, main/major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), stroke, recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) and bleeding events. Conclusions The present study indicates that GHR index is an independent and novel predictor of ACM in non-diabetic CAD patients who underwent PCI.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of 671 COVID-19 patients in Henan Province, China

Background

Despite many reports on the characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China, relatively little is known about the transmission features of COVID-19 outside Wuhan, especially at the provincial level.

Methods

We collected epidemiological, demographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological and occupation information, along with contact history, of 671 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 reported from January 23 to February 5, 2020, in Henan province, China. We described characteristics of these cases, compared the diagnostic accuracy and features of blood testing, computed tomography (CT) scans and X-rays, and analysed SARS-CoV-2 transmission sources and patients’ occupations in Henan province.

Results

The mean age of patients in this case series was 43 years, 56.2% were male and 22.4% had coexisting medical disorders. The death rate was 0.3%. Fourteen patients did not show any symptoms. Lymphocyte percentage was associated with disease severity (χ² = 6.71, P = 0.035) but had a large variation in each sample group. The mean time from illness onset to diagnosis was 5.6 days. A total of 330 patients had ever lived in or visited Wuhan, 150 had contact with confirmed cases, 323 had been to a hospital and 119 had been to a wet market. There were 33 patients who did not have a traceable transmission source, with 21.2% of these being farmers and 15.2% being workmen.

Conclusions

Lymphocyte percentage was a sign of severe COVID-19 in general but was not a good diagnostic index. Longer time from illness onset to diagnosis was associated with higher COVID-19 severity, older age, higher likelihood of having coexisting cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, and being male. Farming was found to be a high-risk occupation in Henan province, China.

Risk Factors for Mortality in Nursing Home Residents: An Observational Study

Purpose: Identifying mortality risk factors in people living in nursing homes could help healthcare professionals to individualize or develop specific plans for predicting future care demands and plan end-of-life care in this population. This study aims to identify mortality risk factors in elderly nursing home (NH) residents, based on variables adapted to this environment, routinely collected and easily accessible to their healthcare professionals. Methods: A prospective, longitudinal, observational study of NH residents aged 65 years and older was carried out collecting sociodemographic, functional and cognitive status, nutritional variables, comorbidities, and other health variables. These variables were analyzed as mortality risk factors by Cox proportional hazard models. Results: A total of 531 residents (75.3% female; average age 86.7 years (SD: 6.6)) were included: 25.6% had total dependence, 53.4% had moderate to severe cognitive impairment, 84.5% were malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, and 79.9% were polymedicated. Risk of mortality (hazard ratio, HR) increased in totally dependent residents (HR = 1.52; p = 0.02) and in those with moderate or severe cognitive impairment ((HR = 1.59; p = 0.031) and (HR = 1.93; p = 0.002), respectively). Male gender (HR = 1.88; p < 0.001), age ≥80 years (HR = 1.73; p = 0.034), hypertension (HR = 1.53; p = 0.012), atrial fibrillation/arrhythmia (HR = 1.43; p = 0.048), and previous record of pneumonia (HR = 1.65; p = 0.029) were also found to be mortality drivers. Conclusion: Age and male gender (due to the higher prevalence of associated comorbidity in these two variables), certain comorbidities (hypertension, atrial fibrillation/arrhythmia, and pneumonia), higher functional and cognitive impairment, and frequency of medical emergency service care increased the risk of mortality in our study. Given their importance and their easy identification by healthcare professionals in nursing homes, these clinical variables should be used for planning care in institutionalized older adults.

Multiple antihypertensive use and risk of mortality in residents of aged care services: a prospective cohort study

AIMS

The objective of this study is to investigate the association between multiple antihypertensive use and mortality in residents with diagnosed hypertension, and whether dementia and frailty modify this association.

METHODS

This is a two-year prospective cohort study of 239 residents with diagnosed hypertension receiving antihypertensive therapy across six residential aged care services in South Australia. Data were obtained from electronic medical records, medication charts and validated assessments. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality and the secondary outcome was cardiovascular-related hospitalizations. Inverse probability weighted Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all-cause mortality. Covariates included age, sex, dementia severity, frailty status, Charlson's comorbidity index and cardiovascular comorbidities.

RESULTS

The study sample (mean age of 88.1 ± 6.3 years; 79% female) included 70 (29.3%) residents using one antihypertensive and 169 (70.7%) residents using multiple antihypertensives. The crude incidence rates for death were higher in residents using multiple antihypertensives compared with residents using monotherapy (251 and 173/1000 person-years, respectively). After weighting, residents who used multiple antihypertensives had a greater risk of mortality compared with monotherapy (HR 1.40, 95%CI 1.03-1.92). After stratifying by dementia diagnosis and frailty status, the risk only remained significant in residents with diagnosed dementia (HR 1.91, 95%CI 1.20-3.04) and who were most frail (HR 2.52, 95%CI 1.13-5.64). Rate of cardiovascular-related hospitalizations did not differ among residents using multiple compared to monotherapy (rate ratio 0.73, 95%CI 0.32-1.67).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple antihypertensive use is associated with an increased risk of mortality in residents with diagnosed hypertension, particularly in residents with dementia and among those who are most frail.

Trends, factors, and disparities associated with length of stay after lower extremity bypass for tissue loss

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine predictors of increased length of stay (LOS) in patients who underwent lower extremity bypass for tissue loss.

METHODS

Using 2011 to 2016 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program vascular targeted databases, we compared demographics, comorbidities, procedural characteristics, and 30-day outcomes of patients who had expected LOS vs extended LOS (>75th percentile, 9 days) after nonemergent lower extremity bypass for tissue loss. We also compared factors associated with short LOS (<25th percentile, 4 days) and extended LOS (>75th percentile, 9 days) vs the interquartile range of LOS (4-9 days). Yearly trends and independent predictors were determined by linear and logistic regression. This study was exempt from Institutional Review Board approval.

RESULTS

In 4964 analyzed patients, there were no significant yearly trends or changes in LOS in the recent 5 years (P > .05). Overall 30-day mortality, major amputation, and reintervention rates were 1.6%, 4.5%, and 4.8%, respectively, also with no significant yearly trends (all P > .05). On univariate analysis, nonwhite race, dependent functional status, transfers, dialysis, congestive heart failure, hypertension, beta blockers, distal bypass targets, and extended operative time were associated with extended LOS (P < .05). Extended LOS was also associated with higher rates of 30-day major adverse limb and cardiac events, additional procedures related to wound care, deep venous thrombosis, complications (pulmonary, renal, septic, bleeding, and wound), and discharge to facility but lower 30-day readmission rates. After adjustment for covariates, the independent factors for extended LOS included dialysis, beta blockers, prolonged operative time, reintervention, major amputation, additional procedures related to wound care, deep venous thrombosis, complications (pulmonary, renal, septic, bleeding, and wound), and discharge to facility (P < .05). On the other hand, multivariable analysis showed that patients with expected LOS were significantly more likely to have been of white race or readmitted postoperatively (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

From 2011 to 2016, there were no significant changes in LOS. Efforts to decrease LOS without increasing readmission rates while focusing on some of the identified factors, including preventable postoperative complications and pre-existing socioeconomic factors, may improve the overall vascular care of these challenging patients.

ALT-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Long-Term Mortality in Patients with Normal Liver Function Presenting Coronary Artery Disease after Undergoing PCI: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is referred as liver transaminase and predominantly expressed by hepatocytes. Previous evidences showed that high levels of ALT were reversely associated with short- and long-term outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction. Besides, low lymphocyte has been demonstrated to be significantly correlated with adverse clinical outcomes in coronary artery disease (CAD). However, evidences about the relationship between ALT-to-lymphocyte ratio (ALR) and outcomes in CAD patients with normal liver function are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between ALR and clinical outcomes in patients with CAD.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study, and a total of 3561 patients were enrolled in Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors of Patients with CAD after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), from January 2013 to December 2017. After excluding patients with liver dysfunction, we finally enrolled 2714 patients. These patients were divided into two groups according to ALR value: the lower group (ALR < 14.06, n = 1804) and the higher group (ALR ≥ 14.06, n = 910). The average follow-up time was 37.59 ± 22.24 months.

Results

We found that there were significant differences between the two groups in the incidence of all-cause mortality (ACM) (P < 0.001) and cardiac mortality (CM) (P=0.010). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis suggested that CAD patients with higher ALR tended to have an increased accumulated risk of ACM and CM (log rank P < 0.001 and P=0.006, respectively). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that ALR was an independent predictor of ACM (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.017 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.289–3.158), P=0.002) and CM (HR = 1.862 (95% CI: 1.047–3.313), P=0.034). We did not find significant difference in the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) between the two groups after adjustments of confounders.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that ALR is an independent predictor of long-term adverse outcomes in CAD patients who underwent PCI.

Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance closely related to lobular inflammation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance (IR) has been established as a major risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) where it exerts effects on plasma glucose homeostasis, cellular anabolism, and organ glucose uptake. Owing to paucity of studies focused on peripheral IR in relation to pathological outcome, we aim to investigate homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) by histological characteristics of NAFLD.

METHODS

Liver biopsy of 588 patients was screened. After excluding etiologies other than NAFLD and factors contributing to IR, serum HOMA-IR was compared with patients' histologic features. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess their relationship. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) was calculated to assess the discriminatory ability of homeostatic model assessment of IR for advanced lobular inflammation (LI).

RESULTS

We observed higher serum level of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and low-density lipoprotein as HOMA-IR increased. HOMA-IR is significantly associated with severity of LI (odds ratio = 1.222, 95% confidence interval = 1.135-1.315, P < 0.001), similar association remained after adjusting for age, BMI, hemoglobin A1c, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides (odds ratio = 1.205, 95% confidence interval = 1.102-1.317, P < 0.001). HOMA-IR is discriminant of LI with AUROC = 0.832 and cutoff = 2.995 (sensitivity = 0.938, specificity = 0.569).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a strong and independent association of HOMA-IR with the severity of liver inflammation by histological evaluation in NAFLD patients without diabetes or metabolic syndrome, and its possible role in diagnosis of LI could be translated into clinical assessment of NAFLD patients with uncertainty of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis progression.

The Systemic Safety of Ranibizumab in Patients 85 Years and Older with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration

OBJECTIVE

Ranibizumab safety is well established for treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), but less is known about the risk of systemic serious adverse events (SAEs), specifically among patients with heightened baseline risk due to age (≥85 years). This analysis examines whether patients ≥85 years of age versus those <85 years experience an increased risk of key systemic SAEs during intravitreal ranibizumab treatment for nAMD.

DESIGN

Retrospective, pooled analysis of safety data from 5 phase III/IIIb multicenter randomized clinical trials in patients with nAMD: ANCHOR, MARINA, PIER, SAILOR, and HARBOR.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with nAMD receiving ranibizumab (n = 4347) or control (sham/verteporfin photodynamic therapy, n = 441) treatment included in the safety-evaluable set of the 5 trials.

METHODS

The incidence of nonocular SAEs was analyzed stratified by age (<85 years [n = 3795] vs ≥85 years [n = 993]), treatment (control, ranibizumab 0.3 mg, ranibizumab 0.5 mg, ranibizumab 2.0 mg), and injection frequency (monthly, as needed [PRN]).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence of key systemic SAEs, defined as total nonocular SAEs, deaths, cardiovascular events, cerebrovascular (CBV) events, and Antiplatelet Trialists' Collaboration events.

RESULTS

The MARINA and ANCHOR trials had greater rates of key SAEs for patients ≥85 years versus those <85 years. Ranibizumab exposure did not increase the risk of most SAEs in elderly patients; for CBV events and death, the effect of ranibizumab versus control treatment for age ≥85 years was not interpretable due to small number of events (CBV: n = 2, 2, 5 for control, ranibizumab 0.3 mg, and ranibizumab 0.5 mg, respectively; death: n = 2, 4, 5, respectively). Across all 5 trials, an increased risk was found for age ≥85 years versus <85 years for the marketed dose of ranibizumab 0.5 mg. In the HARBOR trial, increased rates of key SAEs (excluding total nonocular SAEs) for age ≥85 years versus <85 years were observed with monthly dosing but not with PRN dosing; event rates were similar for 2.0 mg versus 0.5 mg.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with general trends, the risk of key systemic SAEs was associated with age ≥85 years versus <85 years, but not with ranibizumab drug exposure. The difference between monthly versus PRN was inconclusive. There was no evidence of a dose effect. Interpretation of this retrospective analysis is limited because it was not prospectively powered for statistically definitive conclusions.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 activation suppresses pulmonary vascular remodeling by inducing apoptosis through the Hippo signaling pathway in rats with pulmonary arterial hypertension

Objective: To investigate the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activation on pulmonary arterial cell apoptosis during pulmonary vascular remodeling associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and to elucidate potential mechanisms related to Hippo signaling. Methods: PAH model was developed by injecting monocrotaline combined with left pneumonectomy using Sprague-Dawley rat. Then, resorcinolnaphthalein (Res; ACE2 activator), MLN-4760 (ACE2 inhibitor), A-779 (Mas inhibitor), and 4-((5,10-dimethyl-6-oxo-6,10-dihydro-5H-pyrimido[5,4-b]thieno[3,2-e][1,4]diazepin-2-yl)amino) benzenesulfonamide (XMU-MP-1; MST1/2 inhibitor) were administered via continuous subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection for 3 weeks. Animals were randomly divided into six groups: control, PAH, PAH+Res, PAH+Res+MLN-4760, PAH+Res+A-779, and PAH+Res+XMU-MP-1. On 21 day, hemodynamics and pathologic lesions were evaluated. Apoptosis and apoptosis-associated proteins were detected by TUNEL and western blotting. ACE2 activity and Hippo pathway components including large tumor suppressor 1 (LATS1), Yes-associated protein (Yap), and phosphorylated Yap (p-Yap) were investigated by fluorogenic peptide assays and western blotting. Results: In the PAH models, the mean pulmonary arterial pressure, right ventricular hypertrophy index, pulmonary vascular remodeling, anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and Yap were all increased but the pulmonary arterial cell apoptosis, pro-apoptotic proteins caspase-3 and Bax were lower. ACE2 activation significantly ameliorated pulmonary arterial remodeling, this action was related to increased apoptosis and up-regulation of LATS1 and p-Yap. These protective effects were mitigated by the co-administration of A779 or MLN-4760. Moreover, inhibiting the Hippo/LATS1/Yap pathway with XMU-MP-1 blocked apoptosis in pulmonary vascular cells induced by ACE2 activation during the prevention of PAH. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that ACE2 activation attenuates pulmonary vascular remodeling by inducing pulmonary arterial cell apoptosis via Hippo/Yap signaling during the development of PAH.

Does care in a specialised stroke prevention clinic improve poststroke blood pressure control: a protocol for a randomised comparative effectiveness study

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a major risk factor for recurrent stroke, and blood pressure (BP) reduction is associated with decreased risk of stroke recurrence. However, many stroke survivors have poorly controlled BP after their initial stroke. The Stroke Transitions Education and Prevention (STEP) Clinic was established to provide a comprehensive approach to stroke risk factor reduction.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This randomised comparative effectiveness study was designed to assess the impact of care in the STEP clinic versus usual care on poststroke BP reduction. Eligible hospitalised patients with ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke or transient ischaemic attack are scheduled for a clinic screening visit within 4 weeks of discharge if they meet baseline inclusion criteria. At the clinic visit, patients who have uncontrolled BP, defined as automated office BP ≥135/85 mm Hg are randomised (1:1) to either the STEP clinic or usual care for management. STEP clinic patients receive instructions to self-monitor, a BP monitor, sleep apnoea screening, dietary counselling, review of BP monitoring records and adjustment of medications. Patients are followed by a neurologist and a stroke-trained nurse practitioner. Usual care participants are seen by a neurologist and recommendations for secondary prevention are sent to primary care providers. The primary outcome is the difference in mean daytime ambulatory systolic BP at 6 months, assessed using linear regression analysis. Secondary outcomes include 24 hours ambulatory BP, medication adherence and medication self-efficacy, and composite cardiovascular events.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Boards at the McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center and the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Uninsured and Spanish-speaking patients are included in the study.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02591394; Pre-results.

Deprescribing in Older Nursing Home Patients: Focus on Innovative Composite Measures for Dosage Deintensification

Deprescribing, which includes stopping or reducing the dosage of medications, is designed to improve safety and prevent adverse drug reactions in older patients. To date, there has been limited work on measuring decreases in dosage intensity, or deintensification, across therapeutic classes of medications. Given the ongoing focus on central nervous system (CNS) medications and the frequency with which providers encounter hypertension and diabetes in older nursing home patients, the objective of this expert review is to describe and critique innovative composite dosage intensity measures that have been, or could be, applied to quantify deintensification within three therapeutic medication targets commonly encountered in nursing home patients: CNS agents, antihypertensive therapy, and antidiabetic therapy and the extent to which they are associated with health outcomes. Composite measures for CNS medication intensity considered dividing a patient's daily dose by defined daily dosage (DDD), or the minimum effective adult or geriatric daily dosage. In contrast, composite measures for antihypertensives used either DDD or maximum recommended daily dosage in the denominator. We were not able to identify any composite measure of intensity for antidiabetic classes. There was a paucity of interventional studies that showed reducing the dosage intensity resulted in improved health outcomes. In conclusion, we identified several innovative composite measures of dosage intensity for CNS and antihypertensive medications, and discussed possible approaches for developing an antidiabetic regimen composite measure. It is critical for future research to compare and contrast various measures and to determine their impact on important clinical outcomes.

Relationship of Time-Activity-Adjusted Particle Number Concentration with Blood Pressure

Emerging evidence suggests long-term exposure to ultrafine particulate matter (UFP, aerodynamic diameter < 0.1 µm) is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We investigated whether annual average UFP exposure was associated with measured systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), and hypertension prevalence among 409 adults participating in the cross-sectional Community Assessment of Freeway Exposure and Health (CAFEH) study. We used measurements of particle number concentration (PNC, a proxy for UFP) obtained from mobile monitoring campaigns in three near-highway and three urban background areas in and near Boston, Massachusetts to develop PNC regression models (20-m spatial and hourly temporal resolution). Individual modeled estimates were adjusted for time spent in different micro-environments (time-activity-adjusted PNC, TAA-PNC). Mean TAA-PNC was 22,000 particles/cm³ (sd = 6500). In linear models (logistic for hypertension) adjusted for the minimally sufficient set of covariates indicated by a directed acyclic graph (DAG), we found positive, non-significant associations between natural log-transformed TAA-PNC and SBP (β = 5.23, 95%CI: −0.68, 11.14 mmHg), PP (β = 4.27, 95%CI: −0.79, 9.32 mmHg), and hypertension (OR = 1.81, 95%CI: 0.94, 3.48), but not DBP (β = 0.96, 95%CI: −2.08, 4.00 mmHg). Associations were stronger among non-Hispanic white participants and among diabetics in analyses stratified by race/ethnicity and, separately, by health status.

Risk Factors for Low Pharmacy Refill Adherence Among Older Hypertensive Men and Women by Race

BACKGROUND

Sex-race stratification may lead to identification of risk factors for low antihypertensive medication adherence that are not apparent when assessing risk factors in women and men without race stratification. We examined risk factors associated with low pharmacy refill adherence across sex-race subgroups (white women, black women, white men, black men) within the Cohort Study of Medication Adherence among Older Adults (n = 2,122).

METHODS

Pharmacy refill adherence was calculated as proportion of days covered using all antihypertensive prescriptions filled in the year prior to a baseline risk factor survey. Sex- and sex-race-stratified multivariable Poisson regression models with robust standard errors were used to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals for associations between participant characteristics and low adherence.

RESULTS

Prevalence of low adherence was 22.9% vs. 40.7% in white vs. black women (P < 0.001) and 26.3% vs. 37.2% in white vs. black men (P = 0.003). In multivariable models, reducing antihypertensive medication due to cost was associated with low adherence within each sex-race subgroup. Additional factors associated with low adherence included shorter hypertension duration and comorbidities in white women; not being married and depressive symptoms in white men; and ≥6 primary care visits/year and complementary and alternative medicine use in black men. Among men, not being married and reporting depressive symptoms were associated with low adherence for whites, but not blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of sex-race-specific risk factors for low antihypertensive medication adherence may guide development and implementation of tailored interventions to increase antihypertensive medication adherence and blood pressure control among older patients.

Reduction of Blood Pressure Following After Renal Artery Adventitia Stripping During Total Nephroureterectomy: Potential Effect of Renal Sympathetic Denervation

Case series

Patients: Male, 85 • Male, 89

Final Diagnosis: Essential hypertension

Symptoms: High blood pressure

Medication: Anti-hypertensive agents

Clinical Procedure: Operation

Specialty: Cardiology and Hypertension

Factors affecting medication adherence in community-managed patients with hypertension based on the principal component analysis: evidence from Xinjiang, China

PURPOSE

The analysis of factors affecting the nonadherence to antihypertensive medications is important in the control of blood pressure among patients with hypertension. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between factors and medication adherence in Xinjiang community-managed patients with hypertension based on the principal component analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 1,916 community-managed patients with hypertension, selected randomly through a multi-stage sampling, participated in the survey. Self-designed questionnaires were used to classify the participants as either adherent or nonadherent to their medication regimen. A principal component analysis was used in order to eliminate the correlation between factors. Factors related to nonadherence were analyzed by using a χ2-test and a binary logistic regression model.

RESULTS

This study extracted nine common factors, with a cumulative variance contribution rate of 63.6%. Further analysis revealed that the following variables were significantly related to nonadherence: severity of disease, community management, diabetes, and taking traditional medications.

CONCLUSION

Community management plays an important role in improving the patients' medication-taking behavior. Regular medication regimen instruction and better community management services through community-level have the potential to reduce nonadherence. Mild hypertensive patients should be monitored by community health care providers.

Home blood pressure and cardiovascular outcomes in very elderly patients receiving antihypertensive drug therapy: a subgroup analysis of Home blood pressure measurement with Olmesartan Naive patients to Establish Standard Target blood pressure (HONEST) study

The appropriate target blood pressure (BP) in elderly patients with hypertension remains uncertain. We investigated the relationship between morning home systolic blood pressure (MHSBP) during follow-up and cardiovascular (CV) risk in outpatients receiving olmesartan-based treatment aged <75 years (n = 16799) and ≥75 years (n = 4792) in the HONEST study. In the follow-up period (mean 2.02 years), the risk for major CV events was significantly higher in patients with MHSBP ≥155 mmHg compared with <125 mmHg in both age groups in Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for other risk factors and there was no significant difference in trend between the two groups (interaction P = 0.9917 for MHSBP). Hazard ratios for CV events for 1-mmHg increase in MHSBP were similar in patients aged <75 years and in patients aged ≥75 years. The incidence of adverse drug reactions related to excessive BP lowering was lower in patients <75 years than in patients ≥75 years (0.73 vs 1.02%, P = 0.0461). In conclusion, the study suggests even in patients ≥75 years antihypertensive treatment targeting the same MHSBP levels in patients <75 years may be beneficial in reducing CV risk when treatment is tolerated.

Diet quality of women of childbearing age in South-east Nigeria

Purpose

The purpose of this is study is to evaluate the diet quality in nine local government areas drawn from three states of the south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-stage sampling procedure yielded 1,200 women of childbearing age (15-49 years), who responded to a multi-pass 24-hour diet recall questionnaire at the household. Diet quality (DQ) was assessed using the “diet quality index international” (DQI-I) tool with a scale of 0-100.

Findings

Mean age of respondents was 28 ± 5.6 years and body mass index was 26.81 ± 4.8 kg/m2. Majorities (96 per cent) were married, 53.2 per cent had complete secondary and 18 per cent post-secondary education, 41.7 per cent were traders, 14.3 per cent civil servants and 25.8 per cent were unemployed. Main staple foods included root and tubers, cereals, legumes and vegetables. The total DQ in the South-east was 58.8 ± 8.1 with a low “variety” (9.5 ± 3.0), poor “adequacy” (22.3 ± 4.7), good “moderation” (25.0 ± 3.8) and “overall balance” (2.0 ± 1.8).The total DQ in Imo, Enugu and Anambra were 58.6 ± 8.3, 58.8 ± 8.0 and 59.0 ± 8.1, respectively (P > 0.05).

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to three states in South-east Nigeria; it does not give a holistic view of the DQ of women of childbearing age in Nigeria.

Originality/value

The total DQ-I score revealed average overall DQ (59/100) for South-east. However, distinct patterns of low consumption of fruits and vegetables were identified. The need for national (and cross-continental) comparison of DQ using the DQI-I tool is hereby advocated.

The Importance of Identifying Early Changes in Cardiac Structure and Function for the Prevention of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia

Multiple cardiac pathologies have been shown to contribute to progressive cognitive decline and dementia in elderly populations, including left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a marker of prolonged exposure to hypertension. Although associations between chronic hypertension and cognitive function are thought to be mediated primarily by these end organ effects, there is increasing evidence that early changes in cardiac structure and function, such as LVH, may independently contribute to cognitive decline and impairment. In the current issue of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, Mahinrad and colleagues report important new findings on the association between LVH and cognitive function that are incremental to cardiovascular risk and co-morbidity, including hypertension. Emerging evidence that early changes in cardiac structure and function may independently contribute to cognitive decline in elderly populations has resulted in an increased interest in these preclinical substrates as potential treatment targets for the prevention of cognitive decline and in their putative contributions to the pathogenesis of dementia.

White matter microstructure and cognitive decline in metabolic syndrome: a review of diffusion tensor imaging

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors defined by the presence of abdominal obesity, glucose intolerance, hypertension and/or dyslipidemia. It is a major public health epidemic worldwide, and a known risk factor for the development of cognitive dysfunction and dementia. Several studies have demonstrated a positive association between the presence of metabolic syndrome and worse cognitive outcomes, however, evidence of brain structure pathology is limited. Diffusion tensor imaging has offered new opportunities to detect microstructural white matter changes in metabolic syndrome, and a possibility to detect associations between functional and structural abnormalities. This review analyzes the impact of metabolic syndrome on white matter microstructural integrity, brain structure abnormalities and their relationship to cognitive function. Each of the metabolic syndrome components exerts a specific signature of white matter microstructural abnormalities. Metabolic syndrome and its components exert both additive/synergistic, as well as, independent effects on brain microstructure thus accelerating brain aging and cognitive decline.

Hypertension and frailty in older adults

The association between hypertension and frailty syndrome in older adults remains unclear. There is scarce information about the prevalence of hypertension among frail elderly patients or on its relationship with frailty. Up to one quarter of frail elderly patients present without comorbidity or disability, yet frailty is a leading cause of death. The knowledge and better control of frailty risk factors could influence prognosis. The present study evaluated: (1) the prevalence of hypertension in robust, prefrail, and frail elderly; and (2) factors that might be associated with frailty including hypertension. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 619 older adults at a university-based outpatient center. Study protocol included sociodemographic data, measures of blood pressure and body mass index, frailty screening according to the internationally validated FRAIL (fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illnesses, and loss of weight) scale, number of comorbidities, drug use assessment, physical activity, cognitive status, and activities of daily living. Ordinal logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with frailty. Prevalence of hypertension and frailty was 67.3% and 14.8%, respectively, in the total sample. Hypertension was more prevalent in the prefrail (72.5%) and frail (83%) groups than among controls (51.7%). Hypertension, physical activity, number of prescribed drugs, and cognitive performance were significantly associated with frailty status. Hypertension presented an odds ratio of 1.77 towards frailty (95% confidence interval, 1.21-2.60; P = .002). Hypertension was more prevalent in frail elderly patients and was significantly associated with frailty. Intensive control of hypertension could influence the trajectory of frailty, and this hypothesis should be explored in future prospective clinical trials.

Clinical Update on Nursing Home Medicine: 2017

This is the 11th annual Clinical Update from the AMDA meeting article. This year the topics covered are hypertension after the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease risk factors, diagnosis and management including end-of-life planning, and the difficulties with exacerbations such as breathlessness; diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment and dementia; and wound care and pressure ulcer management.

Socioeconomic disparities in income, education and geographic location for hypertension among Thai adults: Results from the National Socioeconomic Survey

Background: Hypertension (HT) has been one of the leading global risk factors for health and the leading cause of death in Thailand for decades. The influence of socioeconomic factors on HT has been varied and inconclusive. The aim of this study was to determine the association between socioeconomic determinants and HT in Thailand.

Methods: This study used data from the National Socioeconomic Survey, a cross-sectional study that was conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand in the years 2005, 2006 and 2007. In our analysis, data were collected on gender, age, marital status, smoking status, education, status of work, occupation, current liability (short-term debt), household monthly income, residential area, region and previously diagnosed HT by a physician.

Results: The odds of having HT were significantly higher among those who had household monthly income, education, residential area and region. The participants who had monthly income of <10001 baht (2005: AOR = 3.19, 95%CI:1.47 - 6.92; 2006: AOR 2.53, 95%CI:1.37 - 4.69; 2007: AOR = 3.35, 95%CI: 1.97 - 7.00), were living in Bangkok compared with the Northeast region (2005: AOR = 1.72, 95%CI:1.37 - 2.17; 2006: AOR =  2.44, 95%CI: 1.89 - 3.13; 2007: AOR =  2.63, 95%CI 2.08 - 3.45), lived as an urban resident (2005: AOR= 1.32, 95%CI: 1.12 - 1.56; 2006: AOR= 1.21, 95%CI: 1.02 - 1.43; 2007: AOR= 1.47, 95%CI: 1.18 - 1.62), and finished primary education (2005: AOR =1.21, 95%CI: 1.03 - 1.43; 2006: AOR= 1.23, 95%CI: 1.04 - 1.46; 2007: AOR= 1.18, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.38) when controlling for other covariates.

Conclusion: This study indicated that socioeconomic disparity has an influence on HT. Those with low educational attainment, low income, lived in urban regions, and were metropolitan residents (Bangkok) were vulnerable to HT.

Uncontrolled Hypertension Increases with Age in an Older Community-Dwelling Chinese Population in Shanghai

We determined the prevalence of hypertension, medication usage and attainment of blood pressure goals in older (≥65 to <80 years and ≥80 years) urban community-dwelling Chinese subjects. Data were obtained in 3950 subjects (mean age 72.0 years, 1745 male) including 609 subjects aged ≥80 years in the Shanghai Elderly Cardiovascular Health Study (SHECHS). Established cardiovascular disease was present in 7.7% of participants. The prevalence of hypertension was 74.8% overall and it was more than 80% in individuals considered to be in moderate and higher cardiovascular disease risk categories. In hypertensive subjects, 67.1% were on treatment and treatment was more frequent in high and very high cardiovascular risk individuals. Attainment of the systolic blood pressure goal <150 mmHg was 62.9% and was greater in the ≥65 to <80 years group than in the ≥80 years group. The most commonly used antihypertensive treatments were calcium channel blockers (54.2%), followed by angiotensin receptor blockers (43.1%). Diuretics were used in 2.6%. Fixed-dose combination antihypertensive tablets were used in some of the ≥65 to <80 years group (12.4%) and more of the ≥80 years group (18.2%) and 70.9% of the ≥65 to <80 years group and 80.2% of the ≥80 years group were on monotherapy. There were high prevalence and high treatment rates of hypertension, but poor attainment of the systolic blood pressure goal of <150 mmHg, especially in the ≥80 years group of community-dwelling Chinese. Considering that more intensive treatment of hypertension in older subjects may be warranted after recent studies, this might be achieved by more frequent use of combinations of effective therapies and diuretics.

Hypertension in the Older Adult

Hypertension is common among adults and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and should be routinely addressed in primary care practice. Optimal blood pressure targets have evolved in the past decade with the release of large studies including older persons. However, controversy remains regarding the treatment of older and frail patients. The relationship between blood pressure treatment and falls or cognitive impairment is still an area of concern and debate. A strategy to address hypertension in older persons should consider an individual's fitness and the likelihood of adverse effects and worsening of conditions that adversely affect quality of life.

A systematic review of hypertension outcomes and treatment strategies in older adults

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the literature regarding blood pressure control and management in older adult patient population over 70 years of age.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using PubMed and capturing the data from 2006 to 2016. Terms used included MeSH headings for hypertension/therapy and antihypertension agents. A systematic review of published studies was performed. Articles including older patients (average age 70 years or older) being treated for hypertension were included. We analyzed the blood pressure goals and treatment regimens along with cardiovascular outcomes.

RESULTS

Six trials were evaluated that met criteria for inclusion. A range of countries were represented including Europe, China, Australia, Tunisia, US, and Japan. The population size in the trials ranged from 142 to 4736. All studies included had adequate power to assess treatment effects. Blood pressure goals were variable and ranged from a systolic of <120 to <160 with a diastolic goal of <80mmHg. Some studies reported outcomes including all-cause mortality, composite cardiovascular events, cardiovascular mortality, fatal and non-fatal stroke or myocardial infarction, and fatal or nonfatal heart failure. Many trials were stopped early because of the significant findings in mortality and cardiovascular outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The studies discussed had a range of blood pressure goals. The optimal management of hypertension in older adults is still being debated. Data from the clinical trials show that treating blood pressure to tight goals of at least <140/80, or lower if tolerated, confers benefit in cardiovascular outcomes.

Real role of β-blockers in regression of left ventricular mass in hypertension patients: Bayesian network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is commonly present in patients with hypertension (HT). According to the expert consensus document from American, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) were recommended as 1st-line therapeutic drugs. However, none noticed the different efficacy between fat-soluble and selective β1-receptor blockers (FS-β-B) and other β-blockers on regression of LVH before. The aim of this analysis was to compare the efficacy of FS-β-B with the other 4 different classes of antihypertensive drugs (ACEI, ARBs, calcium channel blockers [CCBs], and diuretics) on regression of LVH.

METHODS

Relative trials were identified in the PubMed, Web of Science, OVID EBM Reviews and Cochrane databases, and the relevant papers were examined. We performed both traditional and Bayesian meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about the regression of LVH. Sensitivity analysis and regression analysis were performed to explore possible sources of heterogeneity. Inconsistency analysis was performed to check whether the analysis of the trials in the network was indeed consistent.

RESULTS

A total of 41 RCTs involving 2566 patients with HT and LVH were included in this analysis. Bayesian network meta-analysis indicated no statistically significant differences between these groups: FS-β-B and ACEI (MD, -7.09; 95% CI, -14.99, 1.27); FS-β-B and ARB (MD, -2.66; 95% Cl, -12.02, 6.31). Although FS-β-B showed greater efficacy when compared with diuretic (MD, 13.04; 95% CI, 3.38, 22.59) or CCB (MD, 10.90; 95% CI, 1.98, 19.49). The probabilities of being among the most efficacious treatments were: FS-β-B (72%), ARB (27%), ACEI (0.01%), CCB (0.00%), and diuretic (0.00%).

CONCLUSION

Evidence from our analysis reveals that FS-β-B have potential to become 1st-line therapeutic drugs in HT and LVH patients. However, the real efficacy of FS-β-B on regression of LVH should be confirmed by further large, high quality trials considering the limitation of the study number.

Reduction of diastolic blood pressure: Should hypertension guidelines include a lower threshold target?

Reduction of diastolic blood pressure to less than 60-80 mmHg does not improve mortality and may lead to adverse cardiovascular events in high risk patient populations. Despite a growing body of evidence supporting the J-curve phenomenon, no major society guidelines on hypertension include a lower threshold target for diastolic blood pressure. Many major society guidelines for hypertension have been updated in the last 5 years. Some guidelines include goals specific to age and co-morbid conditions. The Sixth Joint Task Force of the European Society of Cardiology and the Canadian Hypertension Education Program are the only guidelines to date that have recommended a lower threshold target, with the Canadian guidelines recommending a caution against diastolic blood pressure less than or equal to 60 mmHg in patients with coronary artery disease. While systolic blood pressure has been proven to be the overriding risk factor in hypertensive patients over the age of 50 years, diastolic blood pressure is an important predictor of mortality in younger adults. Post hoc data analysis of previous clinical trials regarding safe lower diastolic blood pressure threshold remains inconsistent. Randomized clinical trials designed to determine the appropriate diastolic blood pressure targets among different age groups and populations with different comorbidities are warranted. Hypertension guideline goals should be based on an individual’s age, level of risk, and certain co-morbid conditions, especially coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes.

Management of Hypertension in the Elderly and Frail Elderly

An elevated systolic but not diastolic blood pressure level represents a common finding in elderly patients and is associated with an increased risk for developing coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral artery disease, progressive cognitive decline and renal failure. Although less frequently, elderly patients manifest not only with systolic but also diastolic hypertension. Also in this case, the elderly patient will present an increased risk for developing hypertension-related abnormalities. Based on several trials conducted in patients ≥65 years and one single trial in patients ≥80 years the most recent European guidelines recommend antihypertensive treatment in elderly hypertensive patients with a systolic blood pressure ≥60 mmHg, with a systolic target between 140 and 150 mmHg. In fit elderly patients <80 years treatment may be considered at a systolic level ≥140 mmHg with a target SBP <140 mmHg if treatment is well tolerated. Despite of the above, at least three issues related to antihypertensive drug treatment in aged individuals are still debated, particularly after the publication of a recent large scale clinical trial that included also 2.636 patients ≥75 years and a study in nursing home residents ≥80 years, i.e. the frailest oldest patients: (1) the blood pressure threshold at which antihypertensive drug should be initiated, (2) the blood pressure targets of the therapeutic intervention, and (3) the approach to frail elderly hypertensive patients. This review will critically review the evidence available so far on these important issues as well as the position of current guidelines and consensus statements.

The impact of an individualized risk-adjusted approach on hypertension treatment in primary care

Previous studies suggest that up to 60% of all patients with hypertension receive inappropriate treatment. Current 2013 European Society of Hypertension/European Society of Cardiology (ESH/ESC) guidelines recommend taking cardiovascular risk factors into account when assessing treatment for patients with hypertension. The authors hypothesize that this approach will reduce the proportion of patients receiving inappropriate treatment. In this cross-sectional study using electronic medical records of Swiss primary care patients, the authors estimate the proportion of patients receiving inappropriate treatment using two approaches: (1) based on a blood pressure threshold of 140/90 mm Hg; and (2) based on cardiovascular risk factors. A total of 22 434 patients with hypertension were identified. Based on these approaches, 72.7% and 44.6% of patients, respectively, qualified for drug treatment. In addition, 23.0% and 10.8% of patients, respectively, received inappropriate treatment. Application of the 2013 ESH/ESC guidelines reduced the proportion of patients receiving inappropriate treatment by 50%. This shows the major impact of risk adjustment and highlights the need for a patient-centered approach in hypertension treatment.

Acute blood pressure response in hypertensive elderly women immediately after water aerobics exercise: A crossover study

Water aerobics exercise is widely recommended for elderly people. However, little is known about the acute effects on hemodynamic variables. Thus, we assessed the effects of a water aerobic session on blood pressure in hypertensive elderly women. Fifty hypertensive elderly women aged 67.8 ± 4.1 years, 1.5 ± 0.6 m high and BMI 28.6 ± 3.9 kg/m², participated in a crossover clinical trial. The experiment consisted of a 45-minute water aerobics session (70%-75% HRmax adjusted for the aquatic environment) (ES) and a control session (no exercise for 45 minutes) (CS). Heart rate was monitored using a heart rate monitor and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) measurements were taken using a semi-automatic monitor before and immediately after the sessions, and at 10, 20 and 30 minutes thereafter. It was using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) with Bonferroni's post-hoc test (p < 0.05). At the end of the experimental session, ES showed a rise in SBP of 17.4 mmHg (14.3%, p < 0.001) and DBP of 5.4 mmHg (7.8%, p < 0.001) compared to CS. At 10 minutes after exercise, BP declined in ES by a greater magnitude than in CS (SBP 7.5 mmHg, 6.2%, p = 0.005 and DBP 3.8 mmHg, 5.5%, p = 0.013). At 20 minutes after exercise and thereafter, SBP and DBP were similar in both ES and CS. In conclusion, BP returned to control levels within 10-20 minutes remaining unchanged until 30 minutes after exercise, and post-exercise hypotension was not observed. Besides, BP changed after exercise was a safe rise of small magnitude for hypertensive people.

Outcomes of Treated Hypertension at Age 80 and Older: Cohort Analysis of 79,376 Individuals

Objectives

To estimate outcomes according to attained blood pressure (BP) in the oldest adults treated for hypertension in routine family practice.

Design

Cohort analysis of primary care inpatient and death certificate data for individuals with hypertension.

Setting

Primary care practices in England (Clinical Practice Research Datalink).

Participants

Individuals aged 80 and older taking antihypertensive medication and free of dementia, cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and end‐stage renal failure at baseline.

Measurements

Outcomes were mortality, cardiovascular events, and fragility fractures. Systolic BP (SBP) was grouped in 10‐mmHg increments from less than 125 to 185 mmHg or more (reference 145–154 mmHg).

Results

Myocardial infarction hazards increased linearly with increasing SBP, and stroke hazards increased for SBP of 145 mmHg or greater, although lowest mortality was in individuals with SBP of 135 to 154 mmHg. Mortality of the 13.1% of patients with SBP less than 135 mmHg was higher than that of the reference group (Cox hazard ratio=1.25, 95% confidence interval=1.19–1.31; equating to one extra death per 12.6 participants). This difference in mortality was consistent over short‐ and long‐term follow‐up; adjusting for diastolic BP did not change the risk. Incident heart failure rates were higher in those with SBP less than 125 mmHg than in the reference group.

Conclusion

In routine primary care, SBP less than 135 mmHg was associated with greater mortality in the oldest adults with hypertension and free of selected potentially confounding comorbidities. Although important confounders were accounted for, observational studies cannot exclude residual confounding. More work is needed to establish whether unplanned SBPs less than 135 mmHg in older adults with hypertension may be a useful clinical sign of poor prognosis, perhaps requiring clinical review of overall care.