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Tsai HH, Young JL, Cherny S, Ahmed CD, Khan SS, Duquette D. "I don't think people should die young": perspectives of parents with children diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia. J Community Genet 2024:10.1007/s12687-024-00725-8. [PMID: 39126536 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-024-00725-8] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder that significantly increases an individual's risk of developing premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). Early intervention involving lifestyle modification and medication is crucial in preventing CVD. Prior studies have shown that lipid-lowering therapy in children is safe and effective. Despite FH being a treatable and manageable condition, the condition is still underdiagnosed and undertreated. Universal lipid screening (ULS) in children has been recommended by some medical experts in the United States as a strategy to identify cases of FH and maximize the benefits of early invention. However, lipid screening is not routinely offered in pediatric clinics. This study aimed to explore parental experience with FH diagnosis in their children, identify key facilitators and barriers in children's diagnosis and care, and examine parental perspectives on ULS in children in the United States. A total of fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants recruited through the Family Heart Foundation. Thematic analysis identified three key themes: role of family history in facilitating child's FH diagnosis, barriers and challenges in post-diagnosis care, and attitudes towards ULS in children. All participants supported ULS in children and emphasized the value of early diagnosis and treatment for FH. However, a lack of guidance or referral after the child's diagnosis was a concern raised by many participants. This underscores the need for accessible and comprehensive care amid ongoing efforts to increase pediatric diagnosis of FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao H Tsai
- Northwestern University, 645 N Michigan Ave Suite 630, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego, 3020 Children's Way, San Diego, CA, 92123, USA
| | - Jennifer L Young
- Northwestern University, 645 N Michigan Ave Suite 630, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Sara Cherny
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 225 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | | | - Sadiya S Khan
- Northwestern Medicine, 676 N Saint Clair, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Debra Duquette
- Northwestern University, 645 N Michigan Ave Suite 630, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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Santos RD, Wiegman A, Caprio S, Cariou B, Averna M, Poulouin Y, Scemama M, Manvelian G, Garon G, Daniels S. Alirocumab in Pediatric Patients With Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:283-293. [PMID: 38315470 PMCID: PMC10845038 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.6477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Importance Many pediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) cannot reach recommended low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations on statins alone and require adjunct lipid-lowering therapy (LLT); the use of alirocumab in pediatric patients requires evaluation. Objective To assess the efficacy of alirocumab in pediatric patients with inadequately controlled HeFH. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a phase 3, randomized clinical trial conducted between May 2018 and August 2022 at 43 centers in 24 countries. Pediatric patients aged 8 to 17 years with HeFH, LDL-C 130 mg/dL or greater, and receiving statins or other LLTs were included. Following consecutive enrollment into dosing cohorts, 25 of 99 patients screened for dosing every 2 weeks (Q2W) failed screening; 25 of 104 patients screened for dosing every 4 weeks (Q4W) failed screening. A total of 70 of 74 Q2W patients (95%) and 75 of 79 Q4W patients (95%) completed the double-blind period. Interventions Patients were randomized 2:1 to subcutaneous alirocumab or placebo and Q2W or Q4W. Dosage was based on weight (40 mg for Q2W or 150 mg for Q4W if <50 kg; 75 mg for Q2W or 300 mg for Q4W if ≥50 kg) and adjusted at week 12 if LDL-C was 110 mg/dL or greater at week 8. After the 24-week double-blind period, patients could receive alirocumab in an 80-week open-label period. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was percent change in LDL-C from baseline to week 24 in each cohort. Results Among 153 patients randomized to receive alirocumab or placebo (mean [range] age, 12.9 [8-17] years; 87 [56.9%] female), alirocumab showed statistically significant reductions in LDL-C vs placebo in both cohorts at week 24. Least squares mean difference in percentage change from baseline was -43.3% (97.5% CI, -56.0 to -30.7; P < .001) Q2W and -33.8% (97.5% CI, -46.4 to -21.2; P < .001) Q4W. Hierarchical analysis of secondary efficacy end points demonstrated significant improvements in other lipid parameters at weeks 12 and 24 with alirocumab. Two patients receiving alirocumab Q4W experienced adverse events leading to discontinuation. No significant difference in adverse event incidence was observed between treatment groups. Open-label period findings were consistent with the double-blind period. Conclusions and Relevance The findings in this study indicate that alirocumab Q2W or Q4W significantly may be useful for reducing LDL-C and other lipid parameters and be well tolerated in pediatric patients with HeFH inadequately controlled with statins. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03510884.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul D. Santos
- Lipid Clinic Heart Institute, University of Sao Paulo Medical School Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Albert Wiegman
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sonia Caprio
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Bertrand Cariou
- Nantes Université, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Inserm, l’Institut du Thorax, Nantes, France
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Istituto di Biofisica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Italy
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Martin SS, Aday AW, Almarzooq ZI, Anderson CAM, Arora P, Avery CL, Baker-Smith CM, Barone Gibbs B, Beaton AZ, Boehme AK, Commodore-Mensah Y, Currie ME, Elkind MSV, Evenson KR, Generoso G, Heard DG, Hiremath S, Johansen MC, Kalani R, Kazi DS, Ko D, Liu J, Magnani JW, Michos ED, Mussolino ME, Navaneethan SD, Parikh NI, Perman SM, Poudel R, Rezk-Hanna M, Roth GA, Shah NS, St-Onge MP, Thacker EL, Tsao CW, Urbut SM, Van Spall HGC, Voeks JH, Wang NY, Wong ND, Wong SS, Yaffe K, Palaniappan LP. 2024 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics: A Report of US and Global Data From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2024; 149:e347-e913. [PMID: 38264914 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 182.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and obesity) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose control, and metabolic syndrome) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The AHA Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, brain health, complications of pregnancy, kidney disease, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, sudden cardiac arrest, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, valvular disease, venous thromboembolism, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs). METHODS The AHA, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States and globally to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2024 AHA Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2023 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and AHA staff members. The AHA strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional global data, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains. RESULTS Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics. CONCLUSIONS The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.
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McGowan MP, Peterson AL. Universal Pediatric Cholesterol Screening: The Time Has Come! J Pediatr 2024; 268:113928. [PMID: 38307324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.113928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary P McGowan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH; The Family Heart Foundation, Fernandina Beach, FL.
| | - Amy L Peterson
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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Dharmayat KI, Vallejo-Vaz AJ, Stevens CA, Brandts JM, Lyons AR, Groselj U, Abifadel M, Aguilar-Salinas CA, Alhabib K, Alkhnifsawi M, Almahmeed W, Alnouri F, Alonso R, Al-Rasadi K, Ashavaid TF, Banach M, Béliard S, Binder C, Bourbon M, Chlebus K, Corral P, Cruz D, Descamps OS, Drogari E, Durst R, Ezhov MV, Genest J, Harada-Shiba M, Holven KB, Humphries SE, Khovidhunkit W, Lalic K, Laufs U, Liberopoulos E, Roeters van Lennep J, Lima-Martinez MM, Lin J, Maher V, März W, Miserez AR, Mitchenko O, Nawawi H, Panayiotou AG, Paragh G, Postadzhiyan A, Reda A, Reiner Ž, Reyes X, Sadiq F, Sahebkar A, Schunkert H, Shek AB, Stroes E, Su TC, Subramaniam T, Susekov A, Vázquez Cárdenas A, Huong Truong T, Tselepis AD, Vohnout B, Wang L, Yamashita S, Al-Sarraf A, Al-Sayed N, Davletov K, Dwiputra B, Gaita D, Kayikcioglu M, Latkovskis G, Marais AD, Thushara Matthias A, Mirrakhimov E, Nordestgaard BG, Petrulioniene Z, Pojskic B, Sadoh W, Tilney M, Tomlinson B, Tybjærg-Hansen A, Viigimaa M, Catapano AL, Freiberger T, Hovingh GK, Mata P, Soran H, Raal F, Watts GF, Schreier L, Bañares V, Greber-Platzer S, Baumgartner-Kaut M, de Gier C, Dieplinger H, Höllerl F, Innerhofer R, Karall D, Lischka J, Ludvik B, Mäser M, Scholl-Bürgi S, Thajer A, Toplak H, Demeure F, Mertens A, Balligand JL, Stephenne X, Sokal E, Petrov I, Goudev A, Nikolov F, Tisheva S, Yotov Y, Tzvetkov I, Hegele RA, Gaudet D, Brunham L, Ruel I, McCrindle B, Cuevas A, Perica D, Symeonides P, Trogkanis E, Kostis A, Ioannou A, Mouzarou A, Georgiou A, Stylianou A, Miltiadous G, Iacovides P, Deltas C, Vrablik M, Urbanova Z, Jesina P, Tichy L, Hyanek J, Dvorakova J, Cepova J, Sykora J, Buresova K, Pipek M, Pistkova E, Bartkova I, S|ulakova A, Toukalkova L, Spenerova M, Maly J, Benn M, Bendary A, Elbahry A, Ferrières J, Ferrieres D, Peretti N, Bruckert E, Gallo A, Valero R, Mourre F, Aouchiche K, Reynaud R, Tounian P, Lemale J, Boccara F, Moulin P, Charrières S, Di Filippo M, Cariou B, Paillard F, Dourmap C, Pradignac A, Verges B, Simoneau I, Farnier M, Cottin Y, Yelnik C, Hankard R, Schiele F, Durlach V, Sultan A, Carrié A, Rabès JP, Sanin V, Schmieder RS, Ates S, Rizos CV, Skoumas I, Tziomalos K, Rallidis L, Kotsis V, Doumas M, Skalidis E, Kolovou G, Kolovou V, Garoufi A, Koutagiar I, Polychronopoulos G, Kiouri E, Antza C, Zacharis E, Attilakos A, Sfikas G, Koumaras C, Anagnostis P, Anastasiou G, Liamis G, Adamidis PS, Milionis H, Lambadiari V, Stabouli S, Filippatos T, Mollaki V, Tsaroumi A, Lamari F, Proyias P, Harangi M, Reddy LL, Shah SAV, Ponde CK, Dalal JJ, Sawhney JP, Verma IC, Hosseini S, Jamialahmadi T, Alareedh M, Shaghee F, Rhadi SH, Abduljalal M, Alfil S, Kareem H, Cohen H, Leitersdorf E, Schurr D, Shpitzen S, Arca M, Averna M, Bertolini S, Calandra S, Tarugi P, Casula M, Galimberti F, Gazzotti M, Olmastroni E, Sarzani R, Ferri C, Repetti E, Giorgino F, Suppressa P, Bossi AC, Borghi C, Muntoni S, Cipollone F, Scicali R, Pujia A, Passaro A, Berteotti M, Pecchioli V, Pisciotta L, Mandraffino G, Pellegatta F, Mombelli G, Branchi A, Fiorenza AM, Pederiva C, Werba JP, Parati G, Nascimbeni F, Iughetti L, Fortunato G, Cavallaro R, Iannuzzo G, Calabrò P, Cefalù AB, Capra ME, Zambon A, Pirro M, Sbrana F, Trenti C, Minicocci I, Federici M, Del Ben M, Buonuomo PS, Moffa S, Pipolo A, Citroni N, Guardamagna O, Lia S, Benso A, Biolo GB, Maroni L, Lupi A, Bonanni L, Rinaldi E, Zenti MG, Masuda D, Mahfouz L, Jambart S, Ayoub C, Ghaleb Y, Kasim NAM, Nor NSM, Al-Khateeb A, Kadir SHSA, Chua YA, Razman AZ, Nazli SA, Ranai NM, Latif AZA, Torres MTM, Mehta R, Martagon AJ, Ramirez GAG, Antonio-Villa NE, Vargas-Vazquez A, Elias-Lopez D, Retana GG, Encinas BR, Macıas JJC, Zazueta AR, Alvarado RM, Portano JDM, Lopez HA, Sauque-Reyna L, Gomez Herrera LG, Simental Mendia LE, Aguilar HG, Cooremans ER, Aparicio BP, Zubieta VM, Gonzalez PAC, Ferreira-Hermosillo A, Portilla NC, Dominguez GJ, Garcia AYR, Arriaga Cazares HE, Gonzalez Gonzalez JR, Mendez Valencia CV, Padilla Padilla FG, Prado RM, De los Rios Ibarra MO, Arjona Villica~na RD, Acevedo Rivera KJ, Carrera RA, Alvarez JA, Amezcua Martinez JC, Barrera Bustillo MDLR, Vargas GC, Chacon RC, Figueroa Andrade MH, Ortega AF, Alcala HG, Garcia de Leon LE, Guzman BG, Gardu~no Garcia JJ, Garnica Cuellar JC, Gomez Cruz JR, Garcia AH, Holguin Almada JR, Herrera UJ, Sobrevilla FL, Rodriguez EM, Sibaja CM, Medrano Rodriguez AB, Morales Oyervides JC, Perez Vazquez DI, Reyes Rodriguez EA, Osorio MLR, Saucedo JR, Tamayo MT, Valdez Talavera LA, Vera Arroyo LE, Zepeda Carrillo EA, Galema-Boers A, Weigman A, Bogsrud MP, Malik M, Shah S, Khan SA, Rana MA, Batool H, Starostecka E, Konopka A, Lewek J, Bielecka-Dąbrowa A, Gach A, Jóźwiak J, Pajkowski M, Romanowska-Kocejko M, Żarczyńska-Buchowiecka M, Hellmann M, Chmara M, Wasąg B, Parczewska A, Gilis-Malinowska N, Borowiec-Wolna J, Stróżyk A, Michalska-Grzonkowska A, Chlebus I, Kleinschmidt M, Wojtecka A, Zdrojewski T, Myśliwiec M, Hennig M, Medeiros AM, Alves AC, Almeida AF, Lopes A, Guerra A, Bilhoto C, Simões F, Silva F, Lobarinhas G, Gama G, Palma I, Salgado JM, Matos LD, Moura MD, Virtuoso MJ, Tavares M, Ferreira P, Pais P, Garcia P, Coelho R, Ribeiro R, Correia S, Sadykova D, Slastnikova E, Alammari D, Mawlawi HA, Alsahari A, Khudary AA, Alrowaily NL, Rajkovic N, Popovic L, Singh S, Rasulic I, Petakov A, Lalic NM, Peng FK, Vasanwala RF, Venkatesh SA, Raslova K, Fabryova L, Nociar J, Šaligova J, Potočňáková L, Kozárová M, Varga T, Kadurova M, Debreova M, Novodvorsky P, Gonova K, Klabnik A, Buganova I, Battelino T, Bizjan BJ, Debeljak M, Kovac J, Mlinaric M, Molk N, Sikonja J, Sustar U, Podkrajsek KT, Muñiz-Grijalvo O, Díaz-Díaz JL, de Andrés R, Fuentes-Jiménez F, Blom D, Miserez EB, Shipton JL, Ganokroj P, Futema M, Ramaswami U, Alieva RB, Fozilov KG, Khoshimov SU, Nizamov UI, Abdullaeva GJ, Kan LE, Abdullaev AA, Zakirova DV, Do DL, Nguyen MNT, Kim NT, Le TT, Le HA, Santos R, Ray KK. Familial hypercholesterolaemia in children and adolescents from 48 countries: a cross-sectional study. Lancet 2024; 403:55-66. [PMID: 38101429 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01842-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 450 000 children are born with familial hypercholesterolaemia worldwide every year, yet only 2·1% of adults with familial hypercholesterolaemia were diagnosed before age 18 years via current diagnostic approaches, which are derived from observations in adults. We aimed to characterise children and adolescents with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) and understand current approaches to the identification and management of familial hypercholesterolaemia to inform future public health strategies. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, we assessed children and adolescents younger than 18 years with a clinical or genetic diagnosis of HeFH at the time of entry into the Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Studies Collaboration (FHSC) registry between Oct 1, 2015, and Jan 31, 2021. Data in the registry were collected from 55 regional or national registries in 48 countries. Diagnoses relying on self-reported history of familial hypercholesterolaemia and suspected secondary hypercholesterolaemia were excluded from the registry; people with untreated LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) of at least 13·0 mmol/L were excluded from this study. Data were assessed overall and by WHO region, World Bank country income status, age, diagnostic criteria, and index-case status. The main outcome of this study was to assess current identification and management of children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolaemia. FINDINGS Of 63 093 individuals in the FHSC registry, 11 848 (18·8%) were children or adolescents younger than 18 years with HeFH and were included in this study; 5756 (50·2%) of 11 476 included individuals were female and 5720 (49·8%) were male. Sex data were missing for 372 (3·1%) of 11 848 individuals. Median age at registry entry was 9·6 years (IQR 5·8-13·2). 10 099 (89·9%) of 11 235 included individuals had a final genetically confirmed diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolaemia and 1136 (10·1%) had a clinical diagnosis. Genetically confirmed diagnosis data or clinical diagnosis data were missing for 613 (5·2%) of 11 848 individuals. Genetic diagnosis was more common in children and adolescents from high-income countries (9427 [92·4%] of 10 202) than in children and adolescents from non-high-income countries (199 [48·0%] of 415). 3414 (31·6%) of 10 804 children or adolescents were index cases. Familial-hypercholesterolaemia-related physical signs, cardiovascular risk factors, and cardiovascular disease were uncommon, but were more common in non-high-income countries. 7557 (72·4%) of 10 428 included children or adolescents were not taking lipid-lowering medication (LLM) and had a median LDL-C of 5·00 mmol/L (IQR 4·05-6·08). Compared with genetic diagnosis, the use of unadapted clinical criteria intended for use in adults and reliant on more extreme phenotypes could result in 50-75% of children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolaemia not being identified. INTERPRETATION Clinical characteristics observed in adults with familial hypercholesterolaemia are uncommon in children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolaemia, hence detection in this age group relies on measurement of LDL-C and genetic confirmation. Where genetic testing is unavailable, increased availability and use of LDL-C measurements in the first few years of life could help reduce the current gap between prevalence and detection, enabling increased use of combination LLM to reach recommended LDL-C targets early in life. FUNDING Pfizer, Amgen, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Sanofi-Aventis, Daiichi Sankyo, and Regeneron.
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Pederiva C, Gazzotti M, Arca M, Averna M, Banderali G, Biasucci G, Brambilla M, Buonuomo PS, Calabrò P, Cipollone F, Citroni N, D’Addato S, Del Ben M, Genovesi S, Guardamagna O, Iannuzzo G, Iughetti L, Mandraffino G, Maroni L, Mombelli G, Muntoni S, Nascimbeni F, Passaro A, Pellegatta F, Pirro M, Pisciotta L, Pujia R, Sarzani R, Scicali R, Suppressa P, Zambon S, Zenti MG, Calandra S, Catapano AL, Tarugi P, Galimberti F, Casula M, Capra ME. Clinical Approach in the Management of Paediatric Patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A National Survey Conducted by the LIPIGEN Paediatric Group. Nutrients 2023; 15:3468. [PMID: 37571405 PMCID: PMC10420921 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153468] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Detection and treatment of patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) starting from childhood is fundamental to reduce morbidity and mortality. The activity of National realities such as the LIPIGEN (LIpid transPort disorders Italian GEnetic Network) Paediatric Group, founded in 2018, is a milestone in this context. The aim of this exploratory survey, conducted in October 2021 among Italian lipid clinics included in the LIPIGEN Paediatric Group, was to investigate the current clinical approach in the management and treatment of paediatric patients with suspected FH. A digital questionnaire composed of 20 questions investigating nutritional treatment and nutraceutical and pharmacological therapy for children and adolescents with FH was proposed to the principal investigators of 30 LIPIGEN centres. Twenty-four centres responded to the section referring to children aged < 10 years and 30 to that referring to adolescents. Overall, 66.7% of children and 73.3% of adolescents were given lipid-lowering nutritional treatment as the first intervention level for at least 3-4 months (29.2% and 23.3%) or 6-12 months (58.3% and 53.3%). Nutraceuticals were considered in 41.7% (regarding children) and 50.0% (regarding adolescents) of the centres as a supplementary approach to diet. Lipid-lowering drug therapy initiation was mainly recommended (91.7% and 80.0%). In 83.3% of children and 96.7% of adolescents, statins were the most frequently prescribed drug. We highlighted several differences in the treatment of paediatric patients with suspected FH among Italian centres; however, the overall approach is in line with the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) recommendations for FH children and adolescents. We consider this survey as a starting point to reinforce collaboration between LIPIGEN centres and to elaborate in the near future a consensus document on the management of paediatric patients with suspected FH so as to improve and uniform detection, management, and treatment of these patients in our country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Fondazione SISA (Società Italiana per lo Studio dell’Aterosclerosi), 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e di Precisione, Università La Sapienza di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
- AO Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
- Istituto di Biofisica, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Banderali
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Biasucci
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Marta Brambilla
- Unit of Cell and Molecular Biology in Cardiovascular Diseases, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Sabrina Buonuomo
- Rare Diseases and Medical Genetic Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- UOC Cardiologia Clinica a Direzione Universitaria e UTIC, AORN “Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università Degli Studi Della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Cipollone
- Clinica Medica, Centro di Alta Specializzazione per la Prevenzione dell’Aterosclerosi, Centro di Eccellenza ESH per L’ipertensione Arteriosa, Centro di Riferimento Regionale per le Dislipidemie, Ospedale Policlinico SS Annunziata, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Nadia Citroni
- Centro Dislipidemie e Aterosclerosi, Ospedale di Trento, APSS-Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Sergio D’Addato
- UO di Medicina Interna Cardiovascolare, Ambulatorio Dislipidemie, Università di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS S Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Del Ben
- AO Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Università La Sapenza di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Genovesi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Ornella Guardamagna
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric Sciences, Turin University, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gabriella Iannuzzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- U.O.C. Pediatria, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mandraffino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Lipid Centre, University Hospital G Martino, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Maroni
- Ambulatorio Ipertensione Dislipidemie, UO Medicina Generale, ASST Valle Olona, Ospedale di Gallarate, 21013 Gallarate, Italy
| | - Giuliana Mombelli
- Centro Dislipidemie ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Muntoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Centro per le Malattie Dismetaboliche e l’Arteriosclerosi, Associazione ME DI CO Onlus Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabio Nascimbeni
- UO Medicina Interna Metabolica, Lipidology Centre, Baggiovara Hospital, AOU of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Centro per lo Studio e il Trattamento Delle Malattie del Metabolismo, Aterosclerosi e Nutrizione Clinica, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria S Anna di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e per la Romagna, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, 44122 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Pellegatta
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
- Centro per lo Studio dell’Aterosclerosi, Ospedale E Bassini, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Italy
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Sezione Medicina Interna, Angiologia e Malattie da Arteriosclerosi, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Livia Pisciotta
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino UOSD Dietetica e Nutrizione Clinica, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università di Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberta Pujia
- Dipartimento Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche, Università Degli Studi Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sarzani
- Clinica Medica e Geriatrica, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Molecolari, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- IRCCS-INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Ospedale Garibaldi, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Patrizia Suppressa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rare Diseases Centre “C. Frugoni”, University Hospital of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Sabina Zambon
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Università di Padova, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Zenti
- Servizio di Diabetologia e Malattie Metaboliche “Ospedale P. Pederzoli”, Casa di Cura Privata, 37019 Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Calandra
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Tarugi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Casula
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy
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7
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Tsao CW, Aday AW, Almarzooq ZI, Anderson CAM, Arora P, Avery CL, Baker-Smith CM, Beaton AZ, Boehme AK, Buxton AE, Commodore-Mensah Y, Elkind MSV, Evenson KR, Eze-Nliam C, Fugar S, Generoso G, Heard DG, Hiremath S, Ho JE, Kalani R, Kazi DS, Ko D, Levine DA, Liu J, Ma J, Magnani JW, Michos ED, Mussolino ME, Navaneethan SD, Parikh NI, Poudel R, Rezk-Hanna M, Roth GA, Shah NS, St-Onge MP, Thacker EL, Virani SS, Voeks JH, Wang NY, Wong ND, Wong SS, Yaffe K, Martin SS. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2023 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2023; 147:e93-e621. [PMID: 36695182 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1418] [Impact Index Per Article: 1418.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs). METHODS The American Heart Association, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2023 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2022 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. The American Heart Association strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) publications, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains. RESULTS Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics. CONCLUSIONS The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.
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8
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Gidding SS. Familial Hypercholesterolemia: The Atlantic Divide. J Pediatr 2022; 256:1-2. [PMID: 36126732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Gidding
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Geisinger Health, Danville, Pennsylvania.
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9
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Gazzotti M, Casula M, Bertolini S, Capra ME, Olmastroni E, Catapano AL, Pederiva C. The Role of Registers in Increasing Knowledge and Improving Management of Children and Adolescents Affected by Familial Hypercholesterolemia: the LIPIGEN Pediatric Group. Front Genet 2022; 13:912510. [PMID: 35795214 PMCID: PMC9251337 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.912510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathology registers can be a useful tool to overcome obstacles in the identification and management of familial hypercholesterolemia since childhood. In 2018, the LIPIGEN pediatric group was constituted within the Italian LIPIGEN study to focus on FH subjects under 18 years. This work aimed at discussing its recent progress and early outcomes. Demographic, biochemical, and genetic baseline characteristics were collected, with an in-depth analysis of the genetic defects. The analysis was carried out on 1,602 children and adolescents (mean age at baseline 9.9 ± 4.0 years), and almost the whole cohort underwent the genetic test (93.3%). Overall, the untreated mean value of LDL-C was 220.0 ± 97.2 mg/dl, with an increasing gradient from subjects with a negative (N = 317; mean untreated LDL-C = 159.9 ± 47.7 mg/dl), inconclusive (N = 125; mean untreated LDL-C = 166.4 ± 56.5 mg/dl), or positive (N = 1,053; mean untreated LDL-C = 246.5 ± 102.1 mg/dl) genetic diagnosis of FH. In the latter group, the LDL-C values presented a great variability based on the number and the biological impact of involved causative variants. The LIPIGEN pediatric group represents one of the largest cohorts of children with FH, allowing the deepening of the characterization of their baseline and genetic features, providing the basis for further longitudinal investigations for complete details.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Casula
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni(Milan), Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Manuela Casula,
| | - Stefano Bertolini
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico Luigi Catapano
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni(Milan), Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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10
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Tsao CW, Aday AW, Almarzooq ZI, Alonso A, Beaton AZ, Bittencourt MS, Boehme AK, Buxton AE, Carson AP, Commodore-Mensah Y, Elkind MSV, Evenson KR, Eze-Nliam C, Ferguson JF, Generoso G, Ho JE, Kalani R, Khan SS, Kissela BM, Knutson KL, Levine DA, Lewis TT, Liu J, Loop MS, Ma J, Mussolino ME, Navaneethan SD, Perak AM, Poudel R, Rezk-Hanna M, Roth GA, Schroeder EB, Shah SH, Thacker EL, VanWagner LB, Virani SS, Voecks JH, Wang NY, Yaffe K, Martin SS. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2022 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2022; 145:e153-e639. [PMID: 35078371 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2593] [Impact Index Per Article: 1296.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs). METHODS The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2022 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population and an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, and the global burden of cardiovascular disease and healthy life expectancy. RESULTS Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics. CONCLUSIONS The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.
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11
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Park K, Vishnevetskaya K, Vaidyanathan J, Burckart GJ, Green DJ. Pediatric Drug Development Studies for Familial Hypercholesterolemia Submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration Between 2007 and 2020. J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 62:397-408. [PMID: 34562277 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.1973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder of lipoprotein metabolism that leads to an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Hypercholesterolemia in pediatric patients is typically due to FH. Treatment of pediatric FH is achieved through lifestyle modifications, lipid-modifying pharmacotherapy, and/or apheresis. The primary objective of this review is to describe the characteristics of clinical trials conducted in pediatric patients with FH with data submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration from 2007 to 2020. Of 10 trials with 8 products in pediatric FH submitted to the Food and Drug Administration, 1 product was studied in both the heterozygous and the homozygous phenotypes, 5 were studied for heterozygous hypercholesterolemia only, and 2 were studied for homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia only. Most of the trials included pediatric patients ≥10 years of age and older. Clinical trial characteristics including the primary efficacy end points between pediatric and adult trials were mostly identical. Many lipid-lowering drugs with novel mechanisms of action have been recently approved or are currently being studied. In summary, the drug treatment of hypercholesterolemia in pediatric patients is expanding beyond the use of statins, and now involves multiple mechanisms of action involving cholesterol metabolism. As younger pediatric patients are diagnosed and treated for heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, optimizing the doses of these agents and safety studies specific to younger pediatric patients will be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghun Park
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Jayabharathi Vaidyanathan
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Gilbert J Burckart
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Dionna J Green
- Office of Pediatric Therapeutics, Commissioner's Office, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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12
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Polychronopoulos G, Tzavelas M, Tziomalos K. Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: prevalence and control rates. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2021; 16:175-179. [PMID: 33993819 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2021.1929175] [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: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (heFH) is associated with a very high risk for cardiovascular events. Treatment with potent statins substantially reduces cardiovascular morbidity in these patients. Moreover, combination therapy with statins plus ezetimibe and/or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors facilitates achievement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets in patients with heFH. However, heFH remains underdiagnosed and undertreated worldwide.Areas covered: In this review, we summarize current evidence on the prevalence and control rates of heFH. Accumulating data suggest that heFH is one of the most common hereditary metabolic disorders, affecting approximately 1 in every 300 individuals. However, only a small minority of patients with heFH achieve LDL-C targets, even in high-income countries and in subjects followed-up in specialized lipid clinics.Expert opinion: Given the underdiagnosis of heFH using cascade and opportunistic screening, wider, population-based screening strategies should be evaluated for their feasibility and cost-effectiveness if we aspire to timely diagnosis and therefore prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this very high risk population. Overcoming inertia in uptitrating statin dose, adding ezetimibe and/or PCSK9 inhibitors along with more generous reimbursement for lipid-lowering agents in patients with heFH are essential for improving goal attainment rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Polychronopoulos
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marios Tzavelas
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tziomalos
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Nohara A, Tada H, Ogura M, Okazaki S, Ono K, Shimano H, Daida H, Dobashi K, Hayashi T, Hori M, Matsuki K, Minamino T, Yokoyama S, Harada-Shiba M. Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Atheroscler Thromb 2021; 28:665-678. [PMID: 33867421 PMCID: PMC8265428 DOI: 10.5551/jat.rv17050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder with retarded clearance of plasma LDL caused by mutations of the genes involved in the LDL receptor-mediated pathway and most of them exhibit autosomal dominant inheritance. Homozygotes of FH (HoFH) may have plasma LDL-C levels, which are at least twice as high as those of heterozygous FH (HeFH) and therefore four times higher than normal levels. Prevalence of HoFH had been estimated as 1 in 1,000,000 before but more recent genetic analysis surveys predict 1 in 170,000 to 300,000. Since LDL receptor activity is severely impaired, HoFH patients do not or very poorly respond to medications to enhance activity, such as statins, and have a poorer prognosis compared to HeFH. HoFH should therefore be clinically distinguished from HeFH. Thorough family studies and genetic analysis are recommended for their accurate diagnosis. Fatal cardiovascular complications could develop even in the first decade of life for HoFH, so aggressive lipid-lowering therapy should be initiated as early as possible. Direct removal of plasma LDL by lipoprotein apheresis has been the principal measure for these patients. However, this treatment alone may not achieve stable LDL-C target levels and combination with drugs should be considered. The lipid-lowering effects of statins and PCSK9 inhibitors substantially vary depending on the remaining LDL receptor activity of individual patients. On the other hand, the action an MTP inhibitor is independent of LDL receptor activity, and it is effective in most HoFH cases. This review summarizes the key clinical issues of HoFH as well as insurance coverage available under the Japanese public healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Nohara
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital
| | - Hayato Tada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Masatsune Ogura
- Department of Molecular Innovation in Lipidology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute
| | - Sachiko Okazaki
- Division for Health Service Promotion, The University of Tokyo
| | - Koh Ono
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hitoshi Shimano
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology and Metabolism), Faculty of Medicine University of Tsukuba
| | - Hiroyuki Daida
- Faculty of Health Science, Juntendo University, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kazushige Dobashi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi
| | - Toshio Hayashi
- School of Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Mika Hori
- Department of Endocrinology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University
| | - Kota Matsuki
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tetsuo Minamino
- Department of Cardiorenal and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University
| | | | - Mariko Harada-Shiba
- Department of Molecular Pathogenesis, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute
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