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Scatà C, Ferreira FC, Padilha MCSV, Carandina A, Asnaghi R, Bellocchi C, Tobaldini E, Montano N, Soares PPDS, Rodrigues GD. Blunted cardiac autonomic dynamics to active standing test in postmenopausal women. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1402086. [PMID: 39228661 PMCID: PMC11368856 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1402086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although both aging and menopause influence cardiovascular autonomic control, the effect of menopause per se remains unclear. The current study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that post-menopausal women (PMW) have a blunted cardiovascular autonomic adjustment to active standing compared to pre-menopausal women. Thus, we compared the heart rate variability (HRV) indexes from supine (SUP) to orthostatic (ORT) positions among young women (YW), young men (YM), older men (OM), and PMW. Methods The participants rested for 10 min in SUP and then stood up and remained for 5 min in ORT. ECG was continuously recorded, and R-R time series of about 300 beats were analyzed using linear (spectral analysis) and non-linear (symbolic analysis) methods. The variation from SUP to ORT was calculated (Δ = ORT-SUP) for each HRV index. Results In SUP, no difference was found for any HRV index among groups. However, Δ0V% and ΔLFn (cardiac sympathetic modulation) were reduced in PWM compared to all groups (OM, YW, and YM), while Δ2UV% and ΔHFn (cardiac vagal modulation) were reduced in PMW than the younger group (YW and YM). No differences were found among the male groups (OM and YM). Discussion In light of our results, the cardiac autonomic dynamic response to orthostatic stress is blunted in post-menopausal women compared to younger women and older men, a finding that might be influenced not only by aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Scatà
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Felipe C. Ferreira
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | - Angelica Carandina
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Asnaghi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Bellocchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Tobaldini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Montano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gabriel D. Rodrigues
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Brazil
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Li S, Tan I, Atkins E, Schutte AE, Gnanenthiran SR. The Pathophysiology, Prognosis and Treatment of Hypertension in Females from Pregnancy to Post-menopause: A Review. Curr Heart Fail Rep 2024; 21:322-336. [PMID: 38861130 PMCID: PMC11333539 DOI: 10.1007/s11897-024-00672-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We summarise the physiological changes and risk factors for hypertension in females, potential sex-specific management approaches, and long-term prognosis. KEY FINDINGS Pregnancy and menopause are two key phases of the life cycle where females undergo significant biological and physical changes, making them more prone to developing hypertension. Gestational hypertension occurs from changes in maternal cardiac output, kidney function, metabolism, or placental vasculature, with one in ten experiencing pregnancy complications such as intrauterine growth restriction and delivery complications such as premature birth. Post-menopausal hypertension occurs as the protective effects of oestrogen are reduced and the sympathetic nervous system becomes over-activated with ageing. Increasing evidence suggests that post-menopausal females with high blood pressure (BP) experience greater risk of cardiovascular events at lower BP thresholds, and greater vulnerability to treatment-related adverse effects. Hypertension is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease in females. Current BP treatment guidelines and recommendations are similar for both sexes, without addressing sex-specific factors. Future investigations into ideal diagnostic thresholds, BP control targets and treatment regimens in females are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Li
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
| | - Isabella Tan
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of NSW, Barangaroo, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Emily Atkins
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of NSW, Barangaroo, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Aletta E Schutte
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of NSW, Barangaroo, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Sonali R Gnanenthiran
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of NSW, Barangaroo, NSW, 2000, Australia.
- Department of Cardiology, Concord Repatriation Hospital, Concord, NSW, 2139, Australia.
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Hillsley AB, McLachlan CS. Assessment of Registered Clinical Trial Designs: Comparison of L-Arginine and/or L-Citrulline Interventions for Hypertension. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:477. [PMID: 38675437 PMCID: PMC11053694 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040477] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND L-Arginine (Arg) is an essential amino acid and a precursor for the synthesis of vascular nitric oxide, while L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid substrate for increasing L-arginine. Both L-arginine and L-Citrulline in translational studies may acutely lower the blood pressure. Current meta-analysis for L-arginine or L-Citrulline interventions in blood pressure have identified significant heterogeneity. Clinical trial evidence for L-arginine or L-Citrulline in chronic blood pressure reduction in the general population requires an examination of trial designs, as not all translational studies may have influenced vascular reactivity. Our aims are to explore whether L-arginine and L-citrulline intervention trials in chronic blood pressure consider standardized end points relevant to the general adult populations. METHODS A step-wise search on clinicaltrials.gov, the U.S. Library of Medicine registry for clinical trials, was performed including the following keyword search parameters: "completed" "L-Citrulline" "L-arginine" trial", and "adults", involving "blood pressure" reduction as a primary end point in adult humans. RESULTS Of the forty-four completed trials, only five were included for analysis. Following the careful evaluation of trial design, we observed heterogeneity across participant inclusion criteria (population sample size, age range, sex), interventional design (dosages, duration), and primary outcomes, measured with respect to changes in diastolic or systolic blood pressure. CONCLUSION In conclusion, there is a lack of robust trial design evidence to suggest that L-arginine or L-Citrulline, based on current RCTs in the general population, have an overall positive effect on vascular endothelial reactivity and a beneficial chronic blood pressure-lowering effect. Indeed, conclusions drawn from human meta-analysis studies have been heterogenous between studies, which may be attributed to study design heterogeneity, including differences in sample population, age, and blood pressure at the time of entry. Inconsistencies in the study design poses a challenge for systematic reviews and meta-analysis to accurately assess the effect size and impact of L-arginine or L-citrulline on both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Craig Steven McLachlan
- Center for Healthy Futures, Torrens University Australia, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, Australia;
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Ma G, Li J, Xie J, Li Y, Xu K, He Y, Yang J, Du H, Liu X. Pulse pressure and its association with body composition among Chinese men and women without diagnosed hypertension: the China Kadoorie Biobank. J Hypertens 2023; 41:1802-1810. [PMID: 37682069 PMCID: PMC10552820 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wide brachial pulse pressure (PP) has been associated with cardiovascular events, while its population distribution and association with body composition were poorly characterized in large populations. METHODS We evaluated the age and sex distributions of PP and its associations with body composition using baseline data from the China Kadoorie Biobank. A total of 434 200 participants without diagnosed hypertension were included in the analysis. Wide PP was defined as PP above 65 mmHg. Body composition variables, including BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), fat mass index (FMI), fat-free mass index (FFMI), and body fat percentage (BF%), were obtained from bioelectrical impedance analysis. RESULTS Overall, 14.3% of the participants had wide PP. Older age was consistently associated with wider PP in women but only after the andropause stage in men. The independent associations of BMI with wide PP were stronger than other body composition measures. The adjusted differences (men/women, mmHg) in PP per standard deviation (SD) increase in BMI (1.55/1.47) were higher than other body composition (BF%: 0.32/0.64, waist circumference: 0.33/0.39; WHR: 0.49/0.42). In addition, sex differences were observed. In men, the per SD difference in PP was higher for FFMI than for FMI (0.91 vs. 0.67, P < 0.05), whereas in women, it was higher for FMI than for FFMI (1.01 vs. 0.72, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our nationwide population-based study presented the sex-specific distribution of PP over age and identified differential associations of PP with fat and fat-free mass in men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Junqi Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiawen Xie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kun Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yafang He
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiaomei Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huaidong Du
- Medical Research Council Population Health Research Unit at the University of Oxford
- Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU), Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Global Health Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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Beaney T, Wang W, Schlaich MP, Schutte AE, Stergiou GS, Alcocer L, Alsaid J, Diaz AB, Hernandez-Hernandez R, Ishaq M, Jozwiak J, Khan N, Kiru G, McCardle H, Odili AN, Pyun WB, Romero CA, Wang J, Poulter NR. Global blood pressure screening during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from the May Measurement Month 2021 campaign. J Hypertens 2023; 41:1446-1455. [PMID: 37337866 PMCID: PMC10399936 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003488] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Raised blood pressure (BP) remains the biggest risk factor contributing to the global burden of disease and mortality, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. May Measurement Month (MMM), an annual global screening campaign aims to highlight the importance of BP measurement by evaluating global awareness, treatment and control rates among adults with hypertension. In 2021, we assessed the global burden of these rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Screening sites were set up in 54 countries between May and November 2021 and screenees were recruited by convenience sampling. Three sitting BPs were measured, and a questionnaire completed including demographic, lifestyle and clinical data. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP at least 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic BP at least 90 mmHg (using the mean of the second and third readings) or taking antihypertensive medication. Multiple imputation was used to impute the average BP when readings were missing. RESULTS Of the 642 057 screenees, 225 882 (35.2%) were classified as hypertensive, of whom 56.8% were aware, and 50.3% were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on treatment, 53.9% had controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg). Awareness, treatment and control rates were lower than those reported in MMM campaigns before the COVID-19 pandemic. Minimal changes were apparent among those testing positive for, or being vaccinated against COVID-19. Of those on antihypertensive medication, 94.7% reported no change in their treatment because of the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION The high yield of untreated or inadequately treated hypertension in MMM 2021 confirms the need for systematic BP screening where it does not currently exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Beaney
- Imperial Clinical Trials Unit, and
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Wei Wang
- Imperial Clinical Trials Unit, and
| | - Markus P. Schlaich
- Dobney Hypertension Centre, Medical School, Royal Perth Hospital Unit – University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Aletta E. Schutte
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team/SAMRC Unit for Hypertension and CVD, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - George S. Stergiou
- School of Medicine, Hypertension Center STRIDE-7 National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Luis Alcocer
- Instituto Mexicano de Salud Cardiovascular, Tuxpan 16, Roma Sur, Cuauhtemoc, Mexico
| | - Jafar Alsaid
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Alejandro Bimbo Diaz
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Rafael Hernandez-Hernandez
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Clinic, Dean of Health Sciences, Universidad Centro Occidental Lisandro Alvarado, Barquisimeto, Venezuela
| | - Mohammad Ishaq
- Karachi Institute of Heart Diseases, AGA Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jacek Jozwiak
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Opole, Opole, Poland
| | - Nadia Khan
- Department of Medicine, Center for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, University of British Colombia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Augustine Nonso Odili
- Circulatory Health Research Laboratory, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Wook Bum Pyun
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul Hospital, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Cesar A. Romero
- Renal Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jiguang Wang
- Rujin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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6
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Ranatunga S, Kulkarni B, Kinra S, Ebeling PR, Zengin A. Sex-specific associations between markers of arterial stiffness and bone mineral density in Indian men and women. Bone 2023; 169:116686. [PMID: 36720333 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2023.116686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) share common risk factors, yet both are usually underdiagnosed in the absence of major complications. We investigated associations between arterial stiffness, cardiac workload, carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) in Indian adults. METHODS Men and women aged >45 years from the Andhra Pradesh Children and Parents Study (APCAPS) were included for cross-sectional analysis (521 women and 696 men). Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measured aBMD at the whole body, total hip and lumbar spine. Supine blood pressure and heart rate were measured and used to calculate rate pressure product and pulse pressure; augmentation index, pulse wave velocity and CIMT were measured. Sex-interactions were tested (denoted as p-int); adjustments were made for confounders. Data were expressed as SD differences with 95 % confidence intervals. RESULTS There were significant negative associations between pulse pressure and aBMD at all sites in women only. In unadjusted analyses, for every 1SD increase in pulse pressure, women had greater negative differences in aBMD at the whole body (-0.13 vs 0.007), total hip (-0.20 vs -0.05) and lumbar spine (-0.12 vs 0.05) compared with men. After adjustments, sex differences remained. Similar negative associations were seen between pulse wave velocity and augmentation index with aBMD in women only. There were no sex differences between CIMT and rate pressure product with aBMD. CONCLUSIONS Markers of arterial stiffness are associated with poorer bone health in Indian women, but not in men. There is a need to identify the shared risk factors and markers of arterial stiffness and poor bone health to detect those who require co-management of these diseases to prevent cardiovascular events and fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasheni Ranatunga
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Bharati Kulkarni
- Clinical Division, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition, Jamai Osmania PO, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sanjay Kinra
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Peter R Ebeling
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Ayse Zengin
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, VIC, Australia.
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7
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Wang M, Yang Y, Xu Y. Brain nuclear receptors and cardiovascular function. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:14. [PMID: 36670468 PMCID: PMC9854230 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00962-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-heart interaction has raised up increasing attentions. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are abundantly expressed in the brain, and emerging evidence indicates that a number of these brain NRs regulate multiple aspects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, heart failure, atherosclerosis, etc. In this review, we will elaborate recent findings that have established the physiological relevance of brain NRs in the context of cardiovascular function. In addition, we will discuss the currently available evidence regarding the distinct neuronal populations that respond to brain NRs in the cardiovascular control. These findings suggest connections between cardiac control and brain dynamics through NR signaling, which may lead to novel tools for the treatment of pathological changes in the CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Wang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yongjie Yang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yong Xu
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA ,grid.39382.330000 0001 2160 926XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
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Mendoza N, Ramírez I, de la Viuda E, Coronado P, Baquedano L, Llaneza P, Nieto V, Otero B, Sánchez-Méndez S, de Frutos VÁ, Andraca L, Barriga P, Benítez Z, Bombas T, Cancelo MJ, Cano A, Branco CC, Correa M, Doval JL, Fasero M, Fiol G, Garello NC, Genazzani AR, Gómez AI, Gómez MÁ, González S, Goulis DG, Guinot M, Hernández LR, Herrero S, Iglesias E, Jurado AR, Lete I, Lubián D, Martínez M, Nieto A, Nieto L, Palacios S, Pedreira M, Pérez-Campos E, Plá MJ, Presa J, Quereda F, Ribes M, Romero P, Roca B, Sánchez-Capilla A, Sánchez-Borrego R, Santaballa A, Santamaría A, Simoncini T, Tinahones F, Calaf J. Eligibility criteria for Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT): a position statement from a consortium of scientific societies for the use of MHT in women with medical conditions. MHT Eligibility Criteria Group. Maturitas 2022; 166:65-85. [PMID: 36081216 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This project aims to develop eligibility criteria for menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). The tool should be similar to those already established for contraception A consortium of scientific societies coordinated by the Spanish Menopause Society met to formulate recommendations for the use of MHT by women with medical conditions based on the best available evidence. The project was developed in two phases. As a first step, we conducted 14 systematic reviews and 32 metanalyses on the safety of MHT (in nine areas: age, time of menopause onset, treatment duration, women with thrombotic risk, women with a personal history of cardiovascular disease, women with metabolic syndrome, women with gastrointestinal diseases, survivors of breast cancer or of other cancers, and women who smoke) and on the most relevant pharmacological interactions with MHT. These systematic reviews and metanalyses helped inform a structured process in which a panel of experts defined the eligibility criteria according to a specific framework, which facilitated the discussion and development process. To unify the proposal, the following eligibility criteria have been defined in accordance with the WHO international nomenclature for the different alternatives for MHT (category 1, no restriction on the use of MHT; category 2, the benefits outweigh the risks; category 3, the risks generally outweigh the benefits; category 4, MHT should not be used). Quality was classified as high, moderate, low or very low, based on several factors (including risk of bias, inaccuracy, inconsistency, lack of directionality and publication bias). When no direct evidence was identified, but plausibility, clinical experience or indirect evidence were available, "Expert opinion" was categorized. For the first time, a set of eligibility criteria, based on clinical evidence and developed according to the most rigorous methodological tools, has been defined. This will provide health professionals with a powerful decision-making tool that can be used to manage menopausal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Mendoza
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain.
| | - Isabel Ramírez
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | - Pluvio Coronado
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Laura Baquedano
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Plácido Llaneza
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Verónica Nieto
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Borja Otero
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | | | - Leire Andraca
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Comunitaria (SEFAC), Spain
| | | | - Zully Benítez
- Federación Latino Americana de Sociedades de Climaterio y Menopausia (FLASCYM)
| | - Teresa Bombas
- Red Iberoamericana de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva (REDISSER)
| | | | - Antonio Cano
- European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS)
| | | | | | - José Luis Doval
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - María Fasero
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Gabriel Fiol
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Nestor C Garello
- Federación Latino-Americana de Sociedades de Obstetricia y Ginecología (FLASOG)
| | | | - Ana Isabel Gómez
- Sociedad Española de Senología y Patología Mamaria (SESPM), Spain
| | - Mª Ángeles Gómez
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Silvia González
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | | | | | - Sonia Herrero
- Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hemostasia (SETH), Spain
| | - Eva Iglesias
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Ana Rosa Jurado
- Sociedad Española de Médicos de Atención Primaria (SEMERGEN), Spain
| | - Iñaki Lete
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Daniel Lubián
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | - Aníbal Nieto
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Laura Nieto
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Jesús Presa
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | - Miriam Ribes
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Pablo Romero
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | - Beatriz Roca
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joaquín Calaf
- Asociación Española para el Estudio de la Menopausia (AEEM), Spain
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Tao W, Cai X, Al Masri MK, Găman MA, Prabahar K, Baradwan S, Mao P. The effect of transdermal 17β-estradiol combined with norethisterone acetate treatment on the lipid profile in postmenopausal women: A meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Steroids 2022; 185:109061. [PMID: 35688182 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The effect of transdermal 17β-estradiol and norethisterone acetate co-administration on the lipid profile in postmenopausal women remains controversial as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted to investigate this research question have produced conflicting results. Consequently, to clarify this issue, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs that evaluated the impact of transdermal 17β-estradiol combined with norethisterone acetate treatment on the concentrations of serum lipids in postmenopausal women. METHODS Relevant articles published before February 1st, 2022 were identified by searching the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Embase, and Web of Science electronic databases. A random-effects model, employing the method of DerSimonian and Laird, was used to evaluate effect sizes, and results were expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Pooled results from 7 RCTs with 9 intervention arms demonstrated that transdermal 17β-estradiol combined with norethisterone acetate administration significantly decreased total cholesterol (TC) (WMD: -13.43 mg/dL, 95% CI: -18.11 to -8.75, P < 0.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (WMD: -13.90 mg/dL, 95% CI: -20.40 to -7.41, P < 0.001). In the subgroup analyses, a notable reduction in TC was observed in subjects with baseline TC concentrations ≥ 130 mg/dL (WMD -14.49 mg/dL), when treatment duration was ≤ 6 months (WMD: -17.21 mg/dL), and in participants with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 (WMD: -21.71 mg/dL). Moreover, in the subgroup analyses, transdermal 17β-estradiol combined with norethisterone acetate decreased triglycerides (TG) levels when the treatment duration was ≤ 6 months (WMD: -21.37 mg/dL). However, the prescription of transdermal 17β-estradiol combined with norethisterone acetate in postmenopausal women did not change high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) values. CONCLUSIONS Based on our findings, the co-administration of transdermal 17β-estradiol and norethisterone acetate in postmenopausal females can decrease TC and LDL-C levels, as well as TG values, but does not influence HDL-C concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Tao
- Department Endocrinology, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai City, Yantai, Shandong 264000, China
| | - Xiangying Cai
- Internal Medicine Department II, Dongyang Hospital of TCM Internal Medicine, Dongyang, Zhejiang 322100, China
| | | | - Mihnea-Alexandru Găman
- Faculty of Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania & Center of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Kousalya Prabahar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed Baradwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Peijun Mao
- Department of Endocrinology, Air Force 986 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China.
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10
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Pierce GL, Coutinho TA, DuBose LE, Donato AJ. Is It Good to Have a Stiff Aorta with Aging? Causes and Consequences. Physiology (Bethesda) 2022; 37:154-173. [PMID: 34779281 PMCID: PMC8977146 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00035.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Aortic stiffness increases with advancing age, more than doubling during the human life span, and is a robust predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) clinical events independent of traditional risk factors. The aorta increases in diameter and length to accommodate growing body size and cardiac output in youth, but in middle and older age the aorta continues to remodel to a larger diameter, thinning the pool of permanent elastin fibers, increasing intramural wall stress and resulting in the transfer of load bearing onto stiffer collagen fibers. Whereas aortic stiffening in early middle age may be a compensatory mechanism to normalize intramural wall stress and therefore theoretically "good" early in the life span, the negative clinical consequences of accelerated aortic stiffening beyond middle age far outweigh any earlier physiological benefit. Indeed, aortic stiffness and the loss of the "windkessel effect" with advancing age result in elevated pulsatile pressure and flow in downstream microvasculature that is associated with subclinical damage to high-flow, low-resistance organs such as brain, kidney, retina, and heart. The mechanisms of aortic stiffness include alterations in extracellular matrix proteins (collagen deposition, elastin fragmentation), increased arterial tone (oxidative stress and inflammation-related reduced vasodilators and augmented vasoconstrictors; enhanced sympathetic activity), arterial calcification, vascular smooth muscle cell stiffness, and extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycans. Given the rapidly aging population of the United States, aortic stiffening will likely contribute to substantial CVD burden over the next 2-3 decades unless new therapeutic targets and interventions are identified to prevent the potential avalanche of clinical sequelae related to age-related aortic stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary L Pierce
- Department of Health and Human Physiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Thais A Coutinho
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lyndsey E DuBose
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Anthony J Donato
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, Utah
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11
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Brislane Á, Steinback CD, Davenport MH. The Nine Month Stress Test: Pregnancy and Exercise - Similarities and Interactions. Can J Cardiol 2021; 37:2014-2025. [PMID: 34534622 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all physiological systems, the cardiovascular system takes on the most profound adaptation in pregnancy to support fetal growth and development. The adaptations that arise are systemic and involve structural and functional changes that can be observed at the cerebral, central, peripheral, and microvascular beds. This includes, although is not limited to increased heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output with negligible change to blood pressure, reductions in vascular resistance and cerebral blood flow velocity, systemic artery enlargement, enhanced endothelial function. All of this takes place to accommodate blood volume expansion and ensure adequate fetal and maternal oxygen delivery. In some instances, the demand placed on the vasculature can manifest as cardiovascular maladaptation and thus, cardiovascular complications can arise. Exercise is recommended in pregnancy because of its powerful ability to reduce the incidence and severity of cardiovascular complications in pregnancy. However, the mechanism by which it acts is poorly understood. The first aim of this review is to describe the systemic adaptations that take place in pregnancy. Secondly, this review aims to describe the influence of exercise on these systemic adaptations. It is anticipated that this review can comprehensively capture the extent of knowledge in this area while identifying areas that warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Áine Brislane
- Program for Pregnancy & Postpartum Health, Neurovascular Health Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Craig D Steinback
- Program for Pregnancy & Postpartum Health, Neurovascular Health Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Margie H Davenport
- Program for Pregnancy & Postpartum Health, Neurovascular Health Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada.
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12
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Pauls SD, Du Y, Clair L, Winter T, Aukema HM, Taylor CG, Zahradka P. Impact of Age, Menopause, and Obesity on Oxylipins Linked to Vascular Health. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:883-897. [DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.120.315133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective:
Cardiovascular disease, a major cause of mortality and morbidity, exhibits sexual dimorphism since the onset of cardiovascular disease occurs later in women than in men. The loss of cardioprotection in older women may be due to an increase in arterial stiffness after menopause. Free fatty acid metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids, called oxylipins, are known to impact vessel function and may be responsible for the vascular benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The objectives of this study were to compare the plasma oxylipin profiles of young females (20–55 years), older females (55
+
), and older males (55
+
) and to identify associations between oxylipins and cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as obesity and arterial stiffness.
Approach and Results:
We quantified plasma oxylipins by high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in archived samples taken from completed clinical trials. We identified 3 major 12-lipoxygenase products, 12-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid, 12-hydroxy-eicosapentaenoic acid, and 14-hydroxy-docosahexaenoic acid, that are present at high levels in young females compared with older females and males. These oxylipins also decreased with obesity and displayed robust negative associations with arterial stiffness as assessed by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity. According to multiple linear regression modeling, these associations were maintained even after correcting for body mass index category combined with either age, menopausal status, or estradiol levels. Using linear discriminant analysis, the combination of these 3 oxylipins effectively distinguished participants according to both brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity risk group and age.
Conclusions:
Higher 12-lipoxygenase oxylipin plasma concentrations associated with lower arterial stiffness in premenopausal females may be an important contributing factor to sex differences in cardiovascular disease.
Registration:
URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT01661543, NCT01562171, NCT01890330, NCT02571114 and NCT02317588.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha D. Pauls
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences (S.D.P., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
| | - Youjia Du
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology (Y.D., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
| | - Luc Clair
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
- Department of Economics, University of Winnipeg, Canada (L.C.)
| | - Tanja Winter
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences (S.D.P., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
| | - Harold M. Aukema
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences (S.D.P., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
| | - Carla G. Taylor
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences (S.D.P., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology (Y.D., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
| | - Peter Zahradka
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences (S.D.P., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology (Y.D., C.G.T., P.Z.), University of Manitoba, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine, Winnipeg, Canada (S.D.P., Y.D., L.C., T.W., H.M.A., C.G.T., P.Z.)
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13
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Laakkonen EK, Karppinen JE, Lehti S, Lee E, Pesonen E, Juppi HK, Kujala UM, Haapala EA, Aukee P, Laukkanen JA, Ihalainen JK. Associations of Sex Hormones and Hormonal Status With Arterial Stiffness in a Female Sample From Reproductive Years to Menopause. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:765916. [PMID: 34917027 PMCID: PMC8669797 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.765916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Loss of sex hormones has been suggested to underlie menopause-associated increment in cardiovascular risk. We investigated associations of sex hormones with arterial stiffness in 19-58-years-old women. We also studied associations of specific hormonal stages, including natural menstrual cycle, cycle with combined oral contraceptives (COC) and menopausal status with or without hormone therapy (HT), with arterial stiffness. METHODS This study includes repeated measurements of 65 healthy women representing reproductive (n=16 natural, n=10 COC-users) and menopause (n=5 perimenopausal, n=26 postmenopausal, n=8 HT-users) stages. Arterial stiffness outcomes were aortic pulse wave velocity (PWVao) and augmentation index (AIx%) assessed using Arteriograph-device. Generalized estimating equation models were constructed to investigate associations of each hormone (wide age-range models) or hormonal stage (age-group focused models) with arterial stiffness. PWVao models with cross-sectional approach, were adjusted for age, relative fitness, fat mass and mean arterial pressure, while models with longitudinal approach were adjusted for mean arterial pressure. AIx% models used the same approach for adjustments and were also adjusted for heart rate. RESULTS Negative and positive associations with arterial stiffness variables were observed for estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, respectively, until adjustment for confounding effect of age. In naturally menstruating women, AIx% was higher at ovulation (B=3.63, p<0.001) compared to the early follicular phase. In COC-users, PWVao was lower during active (B=-0.33 - -0.57, p<0.05) than inactive pills. In menopausal women, HT-users had higher PWVao (B=1.43, p=0.03) than postmenopausal non-HT-users. CONCLUSIONS When using wide age-range assessments covering reproductive to menopausal lifespan it is difficult to differentiate age- and hormone-mediated associations, because age-mediated influence on arterial stiffness seemed to overrule potential hormone-mediated influences. However, hormonal status associated differentially with arterial stiffness in age-group focused analyses. Thus, the role of sex hormones cannot be excluded. Further research is warranted to resolve potential hormone-mediated mechanisms affecting arterial elasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eija K. Laakkonen
- Gerontology Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- *Correspondence: Eija K. Laakkonen,
| | - Jari E. Karppinen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Satu Lehti
- Gerontology Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Earric Lee
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Emilia Pesonen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Hanna-Kaarina Juppi
- Gerontology Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Urho M. Kujala
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Eero A. Haapala
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pauliina Aukee
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pelvic Floor Research and Therapy Unit, Central Finland Health Care District, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jari A. Laukkanen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Johanna K. Ihalainen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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14
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Effects of combined 17β-estradiol and progesterone on weight and blood pressure in postmenopausal women of the REPLENISH trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 28:32-39. [PMID: 32932401 PMCID: PMC7769186 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To examine the impact of a single-capsule 17β-estradiol (E2)/progesterone (P4) on weight and blood pressure (BP) when treating moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women with a uterus. Methods: Healthy postmenopausal women with a uterus (aged 40-65, body mass index ≤34 kg/m2, BP ≤140/90 mm Hg) were randomized to daily E2/P4 (mg/mg; 1/100, 0.5/100, 0.5/50, 0.25/50) or placebo in the phase 3 REPLENISH trial (NCT01942668). Changes in weight and BP from baseline to month 12 were evaluated. Potentially clinically important changes were defined as increases or decreases from baseline in weight by ≥15% and ≥11.3 kg, systolic BP by ≥20 mm Hg (absolute value ≥160 or ≤90 mm Hg), and diastolic BP by ≥15 mm Hg (absolute value ≥90 or ≤60 mm Hg). Results: Overall mean changes in weight and BP from baseline to month 12 with E2/P4 were modest and generally not statistically or clinically significant versus placebo. Incidence of potentially clinically important changes was low for weight (E2/P4 vs placebo: 1.1-2.6% vs 2.2%), systolic BP (0.3-1.1% vs 1.1%), and diastolic BP (1.4-4.2% vs 3.2%). A small number of women had treatment-related, treatment-emergent adverse events of weight gain (1.4-2.6% vs 1.3%) or hypertension (0.2-1.2% vs 0%). Few women who discontinued E2/P4 had weight gain (1.6%) or hypertension (0.6%) as a primary reason. Efficacy profile on VMS was consistent with previous findings and not modified by body mass index. Conclusions: Twelve-month use of E2/P4 had no clinically meaningful impact on weight or BP in postmenopausal women of the REPLENISH study.
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15
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Abstract
Hypertension represents one of the most important and most frequent cardiovascular risk factors responsible for heart failure (HF) development. Both sexes are equally affected by arterial hypertension. The difference is lying in the fact that prevalence of hypertension as well as hypertension-induced target organ damage varies during lifetime due to substantial variation of sex hormones in women. Left ventricular (LV) structural, functional, and mechanical changes induced by hypertension are well-known complications that occur in both sexes and they are responsible for HF development. However, their prevalence is significantly different between women and men, which could potentially explain the variation in HF occurrence and prognosis between the sexes. Studies have shown that the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy is higher in men. The data are not consistent regarding LV diastolic dysfunction and a similar report has been given for LV mechanical changes. Most investigations agree that LV longitudinal strain is lower among hypertensive men. However, even in the healthy population, men have lower LV longitudinal strain and the cutoff values are still missing. Therefore, it would be difficult to draw the conclusion that LV mechanical dysfunction is more prevalent among men. The main mechanisms responsible for sex-related LV remodeling are sex hormones and their influence on biohumoral systems. This review provides an updated overview of the available data about sex-related LV remodeling, as well as potential mechanisms for these changes, in the patients with arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijana Tadic
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburgerplatz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Cesare Cuspidi
- Clinical Research Unit, University of Milan-Bicocca and Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Viale della Resistenza 23, 20036, Meda, Italy
| | - Guido Grassi
- Clinica Medica, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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16
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Gordon JL, Rubinow DR, Watkins L, Hinderliter AL, Caughey MC, Girdler SS. The Effect of Perimenopausal Transdermal Estradiol and Micronized Progesterone on Markers of Risk for Arterial Disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:dgz262. [PMID: 31838497 PMCID: PMC7096310 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The arterial effects of hormone therapy remain controversial. This study tested the effects of transdermal estradiol plus intermittent micronized progesterone (TE + IMP) in healthy perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women on several mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of arterial disease. METHODS Healthy perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women, ages 45 to 60 years, were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Women were randomized to receive TE (0.1 mg/day) + IMP (200 mg/day for 12 days) or identical placebo patches and pills for 12 months. Outcomes included: change in stress reactivity composite z-score (combining inflammatory, cortisol, and hemodynamic responses to a standardized psychological laboratory stressor); flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery (an index of vascular endothelial function); baroreflex sensitivity; and metabolic risk (presence of the metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance), all assessed at baseline and at months 6 and 12. RESULTS Of 172 women enrolled, those assigned to TE + IMP tended to have higher resting baroreflex sensitivity than those assigned to placebo across the 6- and 12-month visits. Although treatment groups did not differ in terms of the other prespecified outcomes, a significant treatment-by-age interaction was found for FMD and stress reactivity such that an age-related decrease in FMD and increase in stress reactivity were seen among women assigned to placebo but not those assigned to TE + IMP. Women on TE + IMP also had lower resting diastolic blood pressure, lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and higher baroreflex sensitivity during stress testing. CONCLUSIONS TE + IMP tended to improve cardiac autonomic control and prevented age-related changes in stress reactivity and endothelial function among healthy perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Gordon
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - David R Rubinow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Lana Watkins
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Alan L Hinderliter
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Melissa C Caughey
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Susan S Girdler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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17
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Liu SH, Lai CT, Chen HR, Lin WL, Yamada S, Lugtu IC, Chou YH, Yang CC, Kuo TBJ, Chen SA, Lo LW. The Impact of Estrogen Supplementation to Autonomic and Sleep Modulations in Free-Moving Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Int Heart J 2020; 61:128-137. [DOI: 10.1536/ihj.19-297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Huei Liu
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Chun-Ting Lai
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University
- Sleep Research Center, National Yang-Ming University
| | | | - Wei-Lun Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Cardiovascular Research Institute, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Shinya Yamada
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | | | - Yu-Hui Chou
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Cheryl C.H. Yang
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University
- Sleep Research Center, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Terry Bo-Jau Kuo
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University
- Sleep Research Center, National Yang-Ming University
- Digital Medicine Center, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Shih-Ann Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Cardiovascular Research Institute, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Li-Wei Lo
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Cardiovascular Research Institute, National Yang-Ming University
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18
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Fardoun M, Dehaini H, Shaito A, Mesmar J, El-Yazbi A, Badran A, Beydoun E, Eid AH. The hypertensive potential of estrogen: An untold story. Vascul Pharmacol 2019; 124:106600. [PMID: 31629918 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2019.106600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The implication of estrogen in this disease has been extensively studied. While the vast majority of published research argue for a cardioprotective role of estrogen in vascular inflammation such as in atherosclerosis, the role of estrogen in hypertension remains far from being resolved. The vasorelaxant effect of estrogen has already been well-established. However, emerging evidence supports a vasoconstrictive potential of this hormone. It has been proposed that the microenvironment dictates the effect of estrogen-induced type 1 nitric oxide synthase-1 (nNOS) on vasotone. Indeed, depending on nNOS product, nitric oxide or superoxide, estrogen can induce vasodilation or vasoconstriction, respectively. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the vasorelaxant effects of estrogen, and the molecular players involved. Furthermore, we shed light on recent reports revealing a vasoconstrictive role of estrogen, and speculate on the underlying signaling pathways. In addition, we identify certain factors that can account for the discrepant estrogenic effects. This review emphasizes a yin-yang role of estrogen in regulating blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal Fardoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hassan Dehaini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdallah Shaito
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, 1105 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joelle Mesmar
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ahmed El-Yazbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Adnan Badran
- Department of Nutrition, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Elias Beydoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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Free androgen index as a determinant of arterial stiffness in menopause: a mediation analysis. Menopause 2018; 24:635-644. [PMID: 28141664 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Associations of endogenous androgens in menopause with blood pressure (BP) and indices of arterial stiffness are reported, but directional relationships are not clear. Structural equation modeling is a contemporary statistical method, which allows assessment of such relationships and improves pathway understanding. METHODS We recruited 411 consecutive apparently healthy postmenopausal women who underwent noninvasive vascular evaluation. This included pulse wave analysis (aortic pressures and arterial wave reflections [augmentation index]), measurement of aortic stiffness by pulse wave velocity (PWV), stiffness index (SI), and flow-mediated dilatation. A cumulative marker combining PWV and SI (combined local and aortic arterial stiffness [CAS]) was also assessed. Free androgen index (FAI) was calculated from circulating total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin. RESULTS FAI was an independent determinant of systolic BP (SBP) (P = 0.032), SI (P = 0.042), and PWV (P = 0.027). Under structural equation modeling analysis, FAI was a direct predictor for PWV (beta = 0.149, P = 0.014), SI (beta = 0.154, P = 0.022), and CAS (beta = 0.193, P = 0.02), whereas SBP was a parallel mediator of androgen's vascular effects on PWV (beta = 0.280, P < 0.001) and CAS (beta = 0.248, P = 0.004), but not SI (beta = 0.024, P = 0.404). FAI-induced increase in arterial stiffness via flow-mediated dilatation was not established. FAI was not a determinant of augmentation index. CONCLUSIONS In healthy postmenopausal women, FAI was directly associated with PWV, SI, and CAS. FAI also directly correlated with SBP, which in turn concurrently increased PWV and CAS. The directional correlations found herein, imply that endogenous androgens may be causally associated with indices of arterial stiffness both directly and indirectly. This hypothesis should be confirmed in further studies with causal design.
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Regnault V, Lacolley P, Safar ME. Hypertension in postmenopausal women: hemodynamic and therapeutic implications. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HYPERTENSION : JASH 2018; 12:151-153. [PMID: 29371092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jash.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Veronique Regnault
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Patrick Lacolley
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Michel E Safar
- Centre de Diagnostic et de Thérapeutique, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France.
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21
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Barnes JN, Fu Q. Sex-Specific Ventricular and Vascular Adaptations to Exercise. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1065:329-346. [PMID: 30051394 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-77932-4_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Increasing data suggest that there are sex differences in ventricular and vascular adaptations to aerobic (endurance) exercise, which may be attributed to different physical and physiological features in men and women. Despite that cardiovascular control during acute exercise at the same relative work rate (e.g., the percentage of peak oxygen uptake) appears to be similar between the sexes, women have blunted responses or adaptations to prolonged (e.g., ≥1 year) exercise training compared with men. Currently, there is little evidence to suggest that exercise-induced vascular adaptations are different between men and women. Furthermore, sex differences in skeletal muscle adaptations to exercise, and how this influences cardiovascular function, remain unclear. Identifying potential differences and the mechanisms behind such exercise-induced adaptations is important for the optimization of exercise interventions between men and women across the life span.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qi Fu
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Dallas, TX, USA.,University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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22
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Turner B, Mølgaard C, Marckmann P. Effect of dried garlic powder tablets on postprandial increase in pulse wave velocity after a fatty meal: preliminary observations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/11026480510011343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beate Turner
- Department of Human Nutrition and Centre for Advanced Food Studies, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Christian Mølgaard
- Dansk Droge, Ishøj, Denmark Department of Internal Medicine, Roskilde Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Peter Marckmann
- Department of Human Nutrition and Centre for Advanced Food Studies, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Shufelt C, Elboudwarej O, Johnson BD, Mehta P, Bittner V, Braunstein G, Berga S, Stanczyk F, Dwyer K, Merz CNB. Carotid artery distensibility and hormone therapy and menopause: the Los Angeles Atherosclerosis Study. Menopause 2016; 23:150-7. [PMID: 26308234 PMCID: PMC4731269 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Observational studies have suggested that arterial distensibility decreases during menopause; however, its relationship with hormone therapy use remains controversial. We prospectively studied distensibility and hormone therapy use at different menopause stages. METHODS One hundred sixty-one women (aged between 42 and 61 y) without cardiovascular disease underwent carotid artery measurements by ultrasound to calculate distensibility index at baseline and 3 years later. Menopause stage was classified at each visit as premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal. Across 3 years of prospective observation, women were classified as remaining premenopausal, remaining postmenopausal, or transitioning (defined as change from premenopausal to perimenopausal, from premenopausal to postmenopausal, from perimenopausal to perimenopausal, or from perimenopausal to postmenopausal). RESULTS Distensibility declined across time at all menopause stages (P < 0.0001). Compared with postmenopausal women, premenopausal and transitioning/no hormone therapy women had more than twice the decline in distensibility index (P = 0.06 and P = 0.016, respectively), whereas transitioning/hormone therapy women did not differ in distensibility decline (P = 0.28). In a multivariate model, change in systolic blood pressure (P < 0.0001) and change in pulse pressure (P = 0.004) were independent predictors of distensibility index change and served as effect modulators. In an adjusted model, women in the premenopausal and transitioning/no hormone therapy groups had a significantly faster decline in distensibility index (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001, respectively) compared with postmenopausal women, whereas the transitioning/hormone therapy group did not (P = 0.21). CONCLUSIONS These findings confirm that the menopausal transition is associated with reduced vascular compliance. Hormone therapy is associated with better arterial distensibility only during the menopausal transition. Additional prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and to determine whether hormone therapy use beyond the menopausal transition is related to distensibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrisandra Shufelt
- Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Omeed Elboudwarej
- Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Puja Mehta
- Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Vera Bittner
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Glenn Braunstein
- Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Sarah Berga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
| | - Frank Stanczyk
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kathleen Dwyer
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute for Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - C. Noel Bairey Merz
- Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
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Liu A, Tian L, Golob M, Eickhoff JC, Boston M, Chesler NC. 17β-Estradiol Attenuates Conduit Pulmonary Artery Mechanical Property Changes With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Hypertension 2015; 66:1082-8. [PMID: 26418020 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.115.05843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a rapidly fatal vascular disease, strikes women more often than men. Paradoxically, female PAH patients have better prognosis and survival rates than males. The female sex hormone 17β-estradiol has been linked to the better outcome of PAH in females; however, the mechanisms by which 17β-estradiol alters PAH progression and outcomes remain unclear. Because proximal pulmonary arterial (PA) stiffness, one hallmark of PAH, is a powerful predictor of mortality and morbidity, we hypothesized that 17β-estradiol attenuates PAH-induced changes in mechanical properties in conduit proximal PAs, which imparts hemodynamic and energetic benefits to right ventricular function. To test this hypothesis, female mice were ovariectomized and treated with 17β-estradiol or placebo. PAH was induced in mice using SU5416 and chronic hypoxia. Extra-lobar left PAs were isolated and mechanically tested ex vivo to study both static and frequency-dependent mechanical behaviors in the presence or absence of smooth muscle cell activation. Our static mechanical test showed significant stiffening of large PAs with PAH (P<0.05). 17β-Estradiol restored PA compliance to control levels. The dynamic mechanical test demonstrated that 17β-estradiol protected the arterial wall from the PAH-induced frequency-dependent decline in dynamic stiffness and loss of viscosity with PAH (P<0.05). As demonstrated by the in vivo measurement of PA hemodynamics via right ventricular catheterization, modulation by 17β-estradiol of mechanical proximal PAs reduced pulsatile loading, which contributed to improved ventricular-vascular coupling. This study provides a mechanical mechanism for delayed disease progression and better outcome in female PAH patients and underscores the therapeutic potential of 17β-estradiol in PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiping Liu
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Lian Tian
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Mark Golob
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Jens C Eickhoff
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Madison Boston
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Naomi C Chesler
- From the Departments of Biomedical Engineering, (A.L., L.T., M.G., M.B., N.C.C.) and Biostatistics and Medical Informatics (J.C.E.), University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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Comhaire FH, Depypere HT. Hormones, herbal preparations and nutriceuticals for a better life after the menopause: part I. Climacteric 2015; 18:358-63. [DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2014.985645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Shimbo D, Wang L, Lamonte MJ, Allison M, Wellenius GA, Bavry AA, Martin LW, Aragaki A, Newman JD, Swica Y, Rossouw JE, Manson JE, Wassertheil-Smoller S. The effect of hormone therapy on mean blood pressure and visit-to-visit blood pressure variability in postmenopausal women: results from the Women's Health Initiative randomized controlled trials. J Hypertens 2014; 32:2071-81; discussion 2081. [PMID: 24991872 PMCID: PMC4180281 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mean and visit-to-visit variability (VVV) of blood pressure (BP) are associated with an increased cardiovascular disease risk. We examined the effect of hormone therapy on mean and VVV of BP in postmenopausal women from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) randomized controlled trials. METHODS BP was measured at baseline and annually in the two WHI hormone therapy trials, in which 10 739 and 16 608 postmenopausal women were randomized to conjugated equine estrogens (CEEs, 0.625 mg/day) or placebo, and CEEs and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA, 2.5 mg/day) or placebo, respectively. RESULTS At the first annual visit (year 1), mean SBP was 1.04 mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58, 1.50] and 1.35 mmHg (95% CI 0.99, 1.72) higher in the CEEs and CEEs and MPA arms, respectively, compared with the corresponding placebos. These effects remained stable after year 1. CEEs also increased the VVV of SBP (ratio of VVV in CEEs vs. placebo, 1.03; P < 0.001), whereas CEEs and MPA did not (ratio of VVV in CEEs and MPA vs. placebo, 1.01; P = 0.20). After accounting for study drug adherence, the effects of CEEs and CEEs and MPA on mean SBP increased at year 1, and the differences in the CEEs and CEEs and MPA arms vs. placebos also continued to increase after year 1. Further, both CEEs and CEEs and MPA significantly increased the VVV of SBP (ratio of VVV in CEEs vs. placebo, 1.04; P < 0.001; ratio of VVV in CEEs and MPA vs. placebo, 1.05; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Among postmenopausal women, CEEs and CEEs and MPA at conventional doses increased mean and VVV of SBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daichi Shimbo
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Lu Wang
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Michael J. Lamonte
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo – SUNY, Buffalo, NY
| | - Matthew Allison
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | | | - Anthony A. Bavry
- North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System & Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Lisa W. Martin
- Division of Cardiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | | | - Jonathan D. Newman
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Yael Swica
- Center for Family and Community Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | | | - JoAnn E. Manson
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Coutinho T. Arterial Stiffness and Its Clinical Implications in Women. Can J Cardiol 2014; 30:756-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2014.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Harman SM. Menopausal hormone treatment cardiovascular disease: another look at an unresolved conundrum. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:887-97. [PMID: 24680648 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 02/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in women. Before the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) hormone trials, evidence favored the concept that menopausal hormone treatment (MHT) protects against CVD. WHI studies failed to demonstrate CVD benefit, with worse net outcomes for MHT versus placebo in the population studied. We review evidence regarding the relationship between MHT and CVD with consideration of mechanisms and risk factors for atherogenesis and cardiac events, results of observational case-control and cohort studies, and outcomes of randomized trials. Estrogen effects on CVD risk factors favor delay or amelioration of atherosclerotic plaque development but may increase risk of acute events when at-risk plaque is present. Long-term observational studies have shown ∼40% reductions in risk of myocardial infarction and all-cause mortality. Analyses of data from randomized control trials other than the WHI show a ∼30% cardioprotective effect in recently menopausal women. Review of the literature as well as WHI data suggests that younger and/or more recently menopausal women may have a better risk-benefit ratio than older or remotely menopausal women and that CVD protection may only occur after >5 years; WHI women averaged 63 years of age (12 years postmenopausal) and few were studied for >6 years. Thus, a beneficial effect of long-term MHT on CVD and mortality is still an open question and is likely to remain controversial for the foreseeable future.
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Matsui S, Yasui T, Tani A, Kato T, Uemura H, Kuwahara A, Matsuzaki T, Arisawa K, Irahara M. Effect of ultra-low-dose estradiol and dydrogesterone on arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women. Climacteric 2013; 17:191-6. [DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2013.856399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Epidemiological Trial of Hypertension in North Africa (ETHNA): an international multicentre study in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. J Hypertens 2013; 31:49-62. [PMID: 23221932 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e32835a6611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Inhabitants of developing countries such as those in North Africa have experienced lifestyle changes that have increased the risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of the Epidemiological Trial of Hypertension in North Africa (ETHNA) was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical profile of hypertension in a large sample of individuals in North Africa. METHODS This was an international, multicentre, epidemiological, cross-sectional study conducted in patients consulting primary care physicians in Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco. Data were collected via a medical examination and questionnaire covering patient demographics, medical history and cardiovascular risk factors. Associations between hypertension and patient characteristics were determined using conventional parametric statistical tests. RESULTS In total, 28,500 individuals attending primary care physicians participated in this study: 41.8% from Algeria, 37.6% from Morocco and 20.6% from Tunisia. Mean age was 49.2 ± 16.8 years. The total prevalence of hypertension was 45.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 44.8-46.0]; 29.0% of patients with hypertension were newly detected at the study visit. When adjusted for age and sex, the overall prevalence of hypertension was 26.9% (95% CI 26.4-27.4). Overall, 88.0% of the patients with hypertension were receiving or were newly prescribed antihypertensives (history of hypertension, 91.2%; newly detected, 80.3%). Among patients with a history of hypertension receiving antihypertensives at the study visit, only 35.7% had controlled hypertension. CONCLUSION This study suggests that the prevalence of hypertension in North Africa is high. Hypertension may also be underdiagnosed and ineffectively treated. Greater awareness and improved management of hypertension and cardiovascular risks are needed in this region.
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Miller VM, Garovic VD, Kantarci K, Barnes JN, Jayachandran M, Mielke MM, Joyner MJ, Shuster LT, Rocca WA. Sex-specific risk of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline: pregnancy and menopause. Biol Sex Differ 2013; 4:6. [PMID: 23537114 PMCID: PMC3623746 DOI: 10.1186/2042-6410-4-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the biology of sex differences is integral to personalized medicine. Cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline are two related conditions, with distinct sex differences in morbidity and clinical manifestations, response to treatments, and mortality. Although mortality from all-cause cardiovascular diseases has declined in women over the past five years, due in part to increased educational campaigns regarding the recognition of symptoms and application of treatment guidelines, the mortality in women still exceeds that of men. The physiological basis for these differences requires further research, with particular attention to two physiological conditions which are unique to women and associated with hormonal changes: pregnancy and menopause. Both conditions have the potential to impact life-long cardiovascular risk, including cerebrovascular function and cognition in women. This review draws on epidemiological, translational, clinical, and basic science studies to assess the impact of hypertensive pregnancy disorders on cardiovascular disease and cognitive function later in life, and examines the effects of post-menopausal hormone treatments on cardiovascular risk and cognition in midlife women. We suggest that hypertensive pregnancy disorders and menopause activate vascular components, i.e., vascular endothelium and blood elements, including platelets and leukocytes, to release cell-membrane derived microvesicles that are potential mediators of changes in cerebral blood flow, and may ultimately affect cognition in women as they age. Research into specific sex differences for these disease processes with attention to an individual's sex chromosomal complement and hormonal status is important and timely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia M Miller
- Departments of Surgery and Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Vesna D Garovic
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kejal Kantarci
- Department of Radiology, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Jill N Barnes
- Department of Anesthesiology, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Muthuvel Jayachandran
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Michelle M Mielke
- Department of Health Science Research, Division of Epidemiology, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Michael J Joyner
- Department of Anesthesiology, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Lynne T Shuster
- Department of Internal Medicine, Women’s Health Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Walter A Rocca
- Department of Health Science Research, Division of Epidemiology, and Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and osteoporosis are major causes of morbidity and mortality in postmenopausal women. The relationship between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis has been established by studies of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and biochemical pathways that seem to overlap in many places. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is one of the known predictors of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Studies indicate that PWV in hypertensive postmenopausal women is increased, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) attenuates this increase. In addition, recently, many studies have suggested a role for arterial stiffness in the association between CVD and osteoporosis. From these findings, it appears that estrogen deficiency combined with production of inflammatory cytokines plays a role in increased PWV closely associated with CVD and osteoporosis, although the mechanisms of arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women may be more complex. Accordingly, a possible role for PWV as a surrogate marker of CVD as well as osteoporosis in postmenopausal women is discussed in this review. First, menopause leads to increased arterial stiffness with aging in females. Further, epidemiological data evaluating arterial stiffness assessed by PWV provided evidence that most of the established CVD risk factors are determinants of PWV, and these risk factors are increased in patients with CVD. In turn, contrary to expectation, HRT did not always contribute to a lower incidence of CVD in postmenopausal women. By reviewing the current data available, it becomes clear that, at present, the effects of menopause including HRT on PWV remain controversial, and further studies are needed to clarify these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Suzuki
- Department of Nephrology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
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Hawkins K, Mittapally R, Chang J, Nahum GG, Gricar J. Burden of illness of hypertension among women using menopausal hormone therapy: a US perspective. Curr Med Res Opin 2010; 26:2823-32. [PMID: 21058896 DOI: 10.1185/03007995.2010.532543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the burden of illness (BOI) of hypertension in a cohort of women receiving menopausal hormone therapy (HT). METHODS Patients with at least one prescription for menopausal HT were selected from the PharMetrics database during the period July 1, 2003, to June 30, 2005. Hormone therapy patients were divided into those with and without hypertension. The nonhypertensive cohort was propensity score-matched to the hypertensive cohort, controlling for patient demographics, overall comorbidities, and type of HT use. The BOI of hypertension in the menopausal HT cohort was defined as the difference in average annual total healthcare expenditures per person between the cohorts. RESULTS The prevalence of menopausal HT use was 9.75% among potentially eligible patients in this commercially insured sample. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity in the menopausal HT cohort, with a prevalence of 34%. Hormone therapy patients with hypertension (n = 106,729) had significantly higher average annual healthcare expenditures compared to matched HT patients without hypertension ($8908 vs. $5960 per person per year; difference of $2948; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Hypertension is the most common comorbidity among menopausal HT users in the United States. The annual BOI of hypertension is both substantial and significant when compared to matched patients without hypertension, averaging $2948 per patient per year.
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Wharton W, Dowling M, Khosropour CM, Carlsson C, Asthana S, Gleason CE. Cognitive benefits of hormone therapy: cardiovascular factors and healthy-user bias. Maturitas 2009; 64:182-7. [PMID: 19879073 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2009.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2009] [Revised: 09/18/2009] [Accepted: 09/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study and its ancillary Memory Study (WHIMS) revealed increased rates of cardiovascular risk, cognitive decline and dementia with opposed conjugated equine estrogens (CEE). As a result, previously accepted observational data suggesting cardiovascular and cognitive benefits and reduced risk for dementia with hormone therapy (HT) were largely attributed to 'healthy-user' bias. The present observational, community-based, case-controlled study examined the 'healthy-user' bias theory by comparing cognitive task performance in two groups of postmenopausal women, who were either HT users or non-users. DESIGN Participants were 213 non-demented, postmenopausal women residing in the community and in assisted-living facilities who completed a self-report health questionnaire and underwent a 1-h cognitive test battery. To study the independent contribution of variables in the prediction of cognitive performance, we employed a series of hierarchical regression models adding terms in three stages. The first stage included only HT, the second stage added demographics, and the last stage added alcohol, depression and a cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) composite derived from a confirmatory factor analysis. The CVRF composite consisted of: stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia. RESULTS Although independent samples t-tests revealed no statistically significant differences in the CVRF composite and its individual components between the two groups, HT users tended to possess fewer CVRF than non-users. Conversely, HT users were younger and more educated than non-users. HT users outperformed non-users on 7/9 cognitive variables. The full regression model controlling for CVRF, demographic variables, and mood showed HT users outperformed non-users on measures of verbal memory and abstract reasoning. CONCLUSIONS While there is some evidence HT users possess fewer preexisting CVRF than non-users, the observed positive association between HT and cognition is not completely explained by this trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Wharton
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Urbina EM, Khoury P, Martin LJ, D'Alessio D, Dolan LM. Gender differences in the relationships among obesity, adiponectin and brachial artery distensibility in adolescents and young adults. Int J Obes (Lond) 2009; 33:1118-25. [PMID: 19704412 PMCID: PMC2768126 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2009.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of cardiovascular (CV) mortality. Obesity-related reduction in vascular protective adipose-derived proteins, such as adiponectin (APN), has an important role. METHODS We compared brachial artery distensibility (BrachD) with APN, the level of adiposity and other CV risk factors (CVRFs) in 431 post-pubertal subjects (mean 17.9 years). Gender differences in average values were examined by t-tests. Correlations among BrachD, obesity and other CVRFs were examined. Regression analysis was performed to determine whether APN provided an independent contribution to BrachD, while controlling for obesity and other CVRFs. RESULTS Male subjects had lower BrachD (5.72+/-1.37 vs 6.45+/-1.60% change per mm Hg, P<0.0001) and lower APN (10.50+/-4.65 vs 13.20+/-6.53; all P<0.04) than female subjects. BrachD correlated with APN (r=0.25, P< 0.0001). Both BrachD and APN correlated with measures of body size, including height, weight and body mass index (BMI). Both correlated with higher systolic blood pressure, glucose, insulin and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (all P<0.01). In multivariate analysis, APN, gender, APN*gender and BMI z-score predicted BrachD (r(2)=0.305). On the basis of gender difference, only BMI z-score was significant for male subjects (r(2)=0.080), whereas APN and BMI z-score contributed for female subjects (r(2)=0.242, all P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS BrachD is independently influenced by obesity in both male and female subjects. In female subjects, APN exerts an additional independent effect even after adjusting for blood pressure (BP), lipid levels and insulin. Differences in the effect of the APN-adiposity relationship on obesity-related vascular disease may be one reason for gender differences in the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Urbina
- Division of Preventive Cardiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Dias AR, de Mello NR, Eluf Gebara OC, Nussbacher A, Wajngarten M, Petti DA. Conjugated equine estrogen, raloxifene and arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women. Climacteric 2008; 11:390-6. [PMID: 18781483 DOI: 10.1080/13697130802325635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
METHODS We analyzed the influence of conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) and raloxifene on arterial stiffness. Sixty-seven healthy, normotensive women 1-10 years into menopause were assigned to receive oral placebo, conjugated equine estrogen 0.625 mg, or raloxifene 60 mg. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by measuring the carotid-femoral and femoral-dorsalis pedis pulse wave velocity (CF PWV, FP PWV). Systolic pressure augmentation index (AI) at the carotid artery was obtained with applanation tonometry. RESULTS Arterial stiffness was not affected by any treatment regimen: placebo (CF PWV before vs. after: 644 vs. 626 cm/s, p = 0.09; FP PWV before vs. after: 1006 vs. 1012 cm/s,p = 0.77; AI before vs. after = 30 vs. 29%, p = 0.55), CEE (CF PWV before vs. after: 642 vs. 600 cm/s, p = 0.11; FP PWV before vs. after: 952 vs. 971 cm/s, p = 0.66; AI before vs. after: 25 vs. 32%, p = 0.82), and raloxifene (CF PWV before vs. after: 636 vs. 601 cm/s, p = 0.12; FP PWV before vs. after: 964 vs. 941 cm/s, p = 0.62; AI before vs. after: 25 vs. 25%, p = 0.65). A correlation occurred between basal stiffness and the degree of reduction in indexes measured, indicating that the higher the basal stiffness, the greater the degree of reduction, particularly in the CEE group: CF PWV (r = - 0.602, p = 0.001); FP PWV (r = - 0.455, p = 0.022); AI (r = - 0.410, p = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS Conjugated equine estrogen and raloxifene do not seem to affect arterial stiffness of healthy normotensive women less than 10 years since menopause. Reduction in arterial stiffness seems related to its basal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Dias
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University of São Paulo
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Low-dose transdermal hormone therapy does not interfere with the blood pressure of hypertensive menopausal women: a pilot study. Blood Press Monit 2008; 13:277-83. [PMID: 18799953 DOI: 10.1097/mbp.0b013e32830d4b60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of low-dose transdermal hormone therapy (HT) on systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure (BP) evaluated by 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in hypertensive postmenopausal women. METHODS The study was conducted on 24 hypertensive postmenopausal women aged, on average, 54 years and under treatment with enalapril maleate (10-20 mg/day) combined or not with hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/day). Thirteen women used a transdermal adhesive containing estradiol and norethisterone (25 and 125 mug active substance/day, respectively) and 11 did not receive HT. ABPM, lipid profile, and climacteric symptoms were evaluated before and 3 and 6 months after treatment. RESULTS After 3 and 6 months of follow-up, there was a statistically significant reduction of the Blatt-Kupperman menopausal index in the treated group (19.6+/-8.3 vs. 9.6+/-5.9 vs. 9.7+/-7.0; P=0.01). No significant difference in any of the ABPM variables (areas under the systolic and diastolic curves, mean SBP and DBP, SBP and DBP loads and wakefulness-sleep variation) or in the lipid profile was observed between or within groups at the three time points studied. CONCLUSION Low-dose transdermal HT administered for 6 months was effective in improving climacteric symptoms and did not change BP values or circadian pattern in postmenopausal women with mild-to-moderate arterial hypertension taking antihypertensive medications.
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L'hermite M, Simoncini T, Fuller S, Genazzani AR. Could transdermal estradiol + progesterone be a safer postmenopausal HRT? A review. Maturitas 2008; 60:185-201. [PMID: 18775609 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2008.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2008] [Revised: 07/10/2008] [Accepted: 07/21/2008] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in young postmenopausal women is a safe and effective tool to counteract climacteric symptoms and to prevent long-term degenerative diseases, such as osteoporotic fractures, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and possibly cognitive impairment. The different types of HRT offer to many extent comparable efficacies on symptoms control; however, the expert selection of specific compounds, doses or routes of administration can provide significant clinical advantages. This paper reviews the role of the non-oral route of administration of sex steroids in the clinical management of postmenopausal women. Non-orally administered estrogens, minimizing the hepatic induction of clotting factors and others proteins associated with the first-pass effect, are associated with potential advantages on the cardiovascular system. In particular, the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary thromboembolism is negligible in comparison to that associated with oral estrogens. In addition, recent indications suggest potential advantages for blood pressure control with non-oral estrogens. To the same extent, a growing literature suggests that the progestins used in association with estrogens may not be equivalent. Recent evidence indeed shows that natural progesterone displays a favorable action on the vessels and on the brain, while this might not be true for some synthetic progestins. Compelling indications also exist that differences might also be present for the risk of developing breast cancer, with recent trials indicating that the association of natural progesterone with estrogens confers less or even no risk of breast cancer as opposed to the use of other synthetic progestins. In conclusion, while all types of hormone replacement therapies are safe and effective and confer significant benefits in the long-term when initiated in young postmenopausal women, in specific clinical settings the choice of the transdermal route of administration of estrogens and the use of natural progesterone might offer significant benefits and added safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc L'hermite
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium.
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Nichols WW, Pierce GL, Braith RW. Does hormone treatment alter arterial properties in postmenopausal women? Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2007; 2:653-665. [PMID: 30736128 DOI: 10.1586/17446651.2.5.653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Arterial elastic properties and wave reflections constitute left ventricular pulsatile afterload and are directly related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. During the aging process, elastic arteries stiffen and increase pulse wave velocity, causing the reflected pressure wave to arrive at the heart during systole, and augment systolic and pulse blood pressure, resulting in left ventricular hypertrophy. The incidence of cardiovascular disease is much greater in men aged 30-50 years compared with women of a similar age. Among women, the incidence of cardiovascular disease increases dramatically after menopause, which occurs at an average age of 52 years. This observation has lead to the belief that sex hormones produced premenopausally impede or delay the progression of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it appears logical that the administration of female sex hormones, hormone treatment (HT), estrogen alone or with progesterone should provide some degree of cardiovascular protection. This idea was supported by experiments in animals and isolated arterial segments demonstrating that HT increases plasma nitric oxide, decreases endothelin-1 levels and causes smooth muscle relaxation. Also, 17β-estradiol administration decreases collagen and increases elastin in the aortic wall of rats. These experimental studies suggest an improvement in both elastic and muscular artery properties and favorabe modifications of arterial wave reflection characteristics. Furthermore, HT improves lipoprotein metabolism and reduces coronary artery plaque formation in animal models. Unfortunately, observational and interventional studies in postmenopausal women that have evaluated the impact of HT on cardiovascular changes have produced inconsistent and inconclusive results. Most studies agree that arterial stiffness increases after menopause, partly due to advancing age and reduced estrogen production. Results from most studies that were designed to investigate the effects of HT on arterial properties have shown a selective decrease in elastic artery stiffness with little effect on muscular arteries. This beneficial effect was observed only if estrogen alone was administered. The main objective of this review is to discuss the ill effects of arterial stiffness in general and attempt to translate information from previous experimental studies to those in postmenopausal women and explain the beneficial effects of HT on arterial stiffness and improvement in left ventricular afterload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmer W Nichols
- a University of Florida College of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL 32610-0277, USA.
| | - Gary L Pierce
- b University of Colorado, Department of Integrative Physiology, Boulder, CO, USA.
| | - Randy W Braith
- c University of Florida, Department of Applied Physiology, Gainesville, FL 32611C, USA.
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Urbina EM, Bean JA, Daniels SR, D'Alessio D, Dolan LM. Overweight and Hyperinsulinemia Provide Individual Contributions to Compromises in Brachial Artery Distensibility in Healthy Adolescents and Young Adults: Brachial Distensibility in Children. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 1:200-207. [PMID: 18431458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jash.2007.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Brachial artery distensibility (BrachD) was measured in healthy children to identify associations with atherosclerotic risk factors. METHODS: 969 black and white subjects 13-22 years were classified as lean (L) or overweight (O) and hyperinsulinemic (H-I) or normoinsulinemic (N-I). BP and BrachD were obtained with a DynaPulse Pathway instrument. ANOVA was performed looking for group mean differences. Correlations between BrachD and risk variables were examined. Determinates of BrachD were determined by backward elimination regression stratified by BMI-Insulin group. RESULTS: Decreased BrachD correlated with male gender, O, higher BP, HR, fasting glucose and log of fasting insulin after adjusting for pulse pressure (PP). BrachD was greatest in L/N-I with progressive decreases seen in L/H-I, O/N-I, and O/H-I subjects. Regression modeling found PP and HR were major determinates of BrachD. Glucose was significant for subjects with N-I regardless of adiposity. Excluding BP, glucose remained important in N-I subjects. Gender was significant for all. HR retained significance only in O subjects regardless of insulin level. CONCLUSIONS: In healthy adolescents, hyperinsulinemia and obesity adversely affect brachial artery function with overweight contributing to a greater degree. In normoinsulinemic subjects, fasting glucose was inversely related to BrachD. Metabolic factors may play a role in vascular function in youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine M Urbina
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Division of Preventive Cardiology
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Sumino H, Ichikawa S, Kasama S, Takahashi T, Kumakura H, Takayama Y, Kanda T, Kurabayashi M. Different effects of oral conjugated estrogen and transdermal estradiol on arterial stiffness and vascular inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women. Atherosclerosis 2006; 189:436-42. [PMID: 16469323 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2005.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2005] [Revised: 12/14/2005] [Accepted: 12/31/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS We compared the effects of oral conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) therapy and transdermal estradiol therapy on pulse wave velocity (PWV) and circulating levels of vascular inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women and we also explored the interrelationship between the change in PWV and the changes in vascular inflammatory markers. METHODS AND RESULTS In a randomized 12-month trial, 28 postmenopausal women received a continuous oral CEE plus cyclic medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), 28 received a continuous transdermal estradiol patch plus cyclic MPA, and 27 did not receive either therapy. In each subject, we measured the brachial-ankle PWV (baPWV) using an automated device, the blood pressure, and the circulating levels of vascular inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], cell adhesion molecules [CAMs], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], and matrix metalloproteinase [MMP-9]) before and 12 months after the start of the study. Oral CEE therapy did not change the baPWV but significantly increased the CRP and MMP-9 levels (P<0.05, each) and significantly decreased the CAMs and MCP-1 levels (P<0.05, each). Transdermal estradiol therapy significantly decreased the baPWV, and the CAMs and MCP-1 levels (P<0.05, each) but had no effect on the CRP or MMP-9 levels. No significant changes were seen in the control group. The blood pressures of the subjects remained unchanged. In the transdermal estradiol group, the change in baPWV was not significantly correlated with the changes in vascular inflammatory markers. CONCLUSION Transdermal estradiol, but not oral CEE therapy, may have antiatherosclerotic effects by improving arterial stiffness. The reduction in baPWV may contribute to the direct effect of estrogen, but not to the decrease in estrogen-induced vascular inflammatory markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Sumino
- Department of Medicine and Biological Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan.
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Sumino H, Ichikawa S, Kasama S, Takahashi T, Kumakura H, Takayama Y, Kanda T, Sakamaki T, Kurabayashi M. Elevated arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Maturitas 2006; 55:212-8. [PMID: 16621356 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2006.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2005] [Revised: 02/27/2006] [Accepted: 02/28/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Osteoporosis and increased pulse wave velocity (PWV) are cardiovascular risk factors. We investigated the relationship between PWV and bone mass in the lumbar spine in postmenopausal women. METHODS We studied the PWV in 95 women; 38 postmenopausal women with normal spinal bone mineral density (BMD), 32 osteopenic postmenopausal women, and 25 osteoporotic postmenopausal women. The brachial-ankle PWV (baPWV) was measured using an automated device. The BMD of the lumbar spine (L2-L4) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS After adjusting for age and years since menopause, women with osteoporosis had a significantly higher baPWV than those with normal BMD (1500 +/- 220 cm/s versus 1340 +/- 215 cm/s; P < 0.05), but no significant differences in baPWV were seen between the osteoporotic and osteopenic groups or between the osteopenic and normal BMD groups. In univariate regression analysis, the baPWV was significantly negatively correlated with BMD (r = -0.450, P < 0.01), and significantly positively correlated with age (r = 0.601, P < 0.01), years since menopause (r = 0.577, P < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (r = 0.295, P < 0.01), and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.264, P < 0.05), but was not with other variables. In multivariate regression analysis, the baPWV was significantly correlated with BMD (P < 0.05), but not with other variables. CONCLUSIONS Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis may have elevated arterial stiffness, suggesting that osteoporotic postmenopausal women may have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Sumino
- Department of Medicine and Biological Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan.
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Harman SM, Naftolin F, Brinton EA, Judelson DR. Is the estrogen controversy over? Deconstructing the Women's Health Initiative study: a critical evaluation of the evidence. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2006; 1052:43-56. [PMID: 16024750 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1347.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) hormone trials have been widely interpreted as demonstrating that combined menopausal hormone therapy (HT) fails to protect against-and may increase-cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, and dementia in menopausal women, regardless of whether initiated early in the menopause or later. This conclusion does not agree with results of large epidemiological studies showing protection by HT and by estrogen replacement alone (ET) against CVD and dementia. One possible reason for this inconsistency is that the epidemiologic data are confounded by "healthy user bias." Another possible explanation is that most women in the observational studies initiated ET or HT at or near the menopausal transition, at which point there is little or no arterial injury, whereas, in the WHI studies, older women, averaging approximately 12 years postmenopausal, many of whom would have had significant asymptomatic atherosclerosis, were treated. Substantial data demonstrate atheropreventive effects of estrogen before vascular damage occurs, whereas adverse effects of oral estrogen on thrombosis and inflammation may predominate once complex atheromas are present. Similarly, the excess of dementia observed in older WHI women treated with oral conjugated estrogen could be due to cerebral thromboses (multi-infarct dementia). Given the uncertain relevance of the WHI (and other published randomized clinical trials) to initiation of HT in perimenopausal women, and its subsequent continuation for atheroprevention, new trials will be needed to resolve whether early intervention with estrogen may prevent CVD and/or dementia. The Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS), which began in mid-2005, is a randomized, controlled multicenter trial of HT in recently menopausal women. It will examine surrogate end points as well as risk factors for atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mitchell Harman
- Kronos Longevity Research Institute, 2222 E. Highland, Ste. 220, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA.
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Harvey PJ, Morris BL, Kubo T, Picton PE, Su WS, Notarius CF, Floras JS. Hemodynamic after-effects of acute dynamic exercise in sedentary normotensive postmenopausal women. J Hypertens 2005; 23:285-92. [PMID: 15662216 DOI: 10.1097/00004872-200502000-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine, in sedentary normotensive postmenopausal women, the after-effects of exercise on systemic and regional hemodynamics, and whether changes in total peripheral conductance after exercise relate to changes in brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD). METHODS In 13 sedentary postmenopausal women, the blood pressure (BP), cardiac output, total peripheral resistance and total peripheral conductance, calf vascular resistance and FMD were measured during baseline rest, and again commencing 45 min after treadmill exercise. Fourteen premenopausal women completed the identical protocol to obtain reference values for the after-effects of exercise in healthy females. RESULTS In postmenopausal women, exercise was followed by falls in systolic BP (P < 0.01) and diastolic BP (P < 0.001). BP did not fall after exercise in premenopausal women. In both groups the cardiac output (P < 0.01) increased and the calf vascular resistance (P < 0.01) and total peripheral resistance (P < 0.05) decreased after exercise, but resistance fell more (P < 0.05) in postmenopausal women. Baseline FMD was greater in premenopausal women (12.1 +/- 1.5 versus 5.3 +/- 1.3%, P < 0.01), and similar before and after exercise, whereas prior exercise nearly doubled the FMD of postmenopausal women (to 9.9 +/- 1.4%, P < 0.01). These increases in FMD correlated with baseline values (r = -0.75, P < 0.01) and with relative changes in total peripheral conductance (r = 0.72, P < 0.02). The latter relationship was absent in premenopausal women (r = -0.29). CONCLUSIONS In postmenopausal women, acute dynamic exercise elicits sustained increases in FMD that could facilitate post-exercise hypotension in this population. These observations reinforce the concept of exercise as an important non-pharmacological intervention to modify cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula J Harvey
- Division of Cardiology, University Health Network, Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Ventura HO, Mehra MR. The interaction of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular events in women: insights from The Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study. Chest 2005; 127:1477-80. [PMID: 15888813 DOI: 10.1378/chest.127.5.1477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Nair GV, Chaput LA, Vittinghoff E, Herrington DM. Pulse Pressure and Cardiovascular Events in Postmenopausal Women With Coronary Heart Disease. Chest 2005; 127:1498-506. [PMID: 15888820 DOI: 10.1378/chest.127.5.1498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulse pressure (PP) has been shown to predict risk for cardiovascular events in men; however, this association has not been well established in women. Hormone replacement therapy may improve arterial compliance, but findings from cross-sectional and prospective studies report inconsistent results. We sought to examine the relationship between PP and risk for cardiovascular events, and to determine the effect of hormone therapy on PP in postmenopausal women with coronary heart disease (CHD). METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 2,763 postmenopausal women (mean age, 66 +/- 7 years [+/- SD]) with CHD in the Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study, a randomized, placebo-controlled, secondary CHD prevention trial of estrogen plus progestin, were followed up on average for 4.1 years. BP was measured at baseline and annually. Mean baseline PP was 62 +/- 16 mm Hg. There were 361 myocardial infarctions (MIs) or CHD deaths, 265 hospitalizations for congestive heart failure (CHF), and 215 strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Women in the highest quartile of PP at baseline had a 47% increase in risk for MI or CHD death and more than a twofold increase in risk for stroke and TIA events or hospitalization for CHF (p < 0.01 for each outcome). After adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors and mean arterial pressure, PP remained significantly associated with incident stroke or TIA events (odds ratio, 1.25; p = 0.02) and hospitalizations for CHF (odds ratio, 1.31; p < 0.01) but not with MI or CHD death. After adjustment for diastolic BP, systolic BP was similarly associated with stroke or TIA (odds ratio, 1.30; p < 0.01) and hospitalized CHF (odds ratio, 1.30; p < 0.01) and was also weakly associated with risk for MI and CHD death (odds ratio, 1.18; p = 0.02). Mean PP was 1- to 2-mm Hg higher in women randomized to hormone replacement therapy vs those receiving placebo (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS PP had predictive value for CHF and stroke or TIA, but not MI or CHD death in this cohort of postmenopausal women with CHD. Use of hormone replacement therapy produced a small, statistically significant increase in PP. Further research is necessary to determine the clinical utility of PP as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish V Nair
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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Tentolouris N, Christodoulakos G, Lambrinoudaki I, Mandalaki E, Panoulis C, Maridaki C, Creatsas G, Katsilambros N. Effect of hormone therapy on the elastic properties of the arteries in healthy postmenopausal women. J Endocrinol Invest 2005; 28:305-11. [PMID: 15966502 DOI: 10.1007/bf03347195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the effect of continuous hormone therapy (HT) for 1 yr on pulse wave analysis and central aortic pressure in healthy postmenopausal women. Sixty-five healthy postmenopausal women were randomly allocated to receive either conjugated equine estrogens 0.625 mg plus medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg (CEE/MPA, Premelle 5, Wyeth-Ayerst Lab, Philadelphia, PA, no.=32) or no therapy (no.=33). Treatment was continuous, and the study period lasted 12 months. Central aortic pressure, augmentation and augmentation index (AI) were determined non-invasively using applanation tonometry. All measurements were performed at baseline and at the end of the study by the same person. Ns differences were found between baseline values and values at the end of the study in either the control or the CEE/MPA group in central systolic aortic pressure (107.0 +/- 13.1 vs 107.6 +/- 11.3 mmHg, p=0.80, and 110.8 +/- 10.8 vs 112.3 +/- 11.4 mmHg, p=0.23, respectively), augmentation (12.6 +/- 4.2 vs 11.9 +/- 4.8 mmHg, p=0.45 and 11.7 +/- 3.7 vs 12.6 +/- 4.2 mmHg, p=0.34, respectively), and percentage of AI (36.8 +/- 9.3 vs 36.3 +/- 10.3, p=0.81 and 34.1 +/- 8.9 vs 34.9 +/- 9.8, p=0.72, respectively). The results of this preliminary report suggest that HT for 1 yr does not have any significant effect on central aortic pressure and wave reflection in healthy postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Tentolouris
- Department of Propedeutic Medicine, Laiko Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Nair GV, Waters D, Rogers W, Kowalchuk GJ, Stuckey TD, Herrington DM. Pulse Pressure and Coronary Atherosclerosis Progression in Postmenopausal Women. Hypertension 2005; 45:53-7. [PMID: 15545509 DOI: 10.1161/01.hyp.0000149599.99266.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pulse pressure, an index of large artery stiffness, has been associated with coronary events. However, mechanisms for this association remain unclear. In this study, we examined the relationship between pulse pressure and the progression of coronary atherosclerosis and the effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on pulse pressure in postmenopausal women with angiographically confirmed coronary disease followed for 3.2 years in the Estrogen Replacement in Atherosclerosis (ERA) trial. In the ERA trial, 309 postmenopausal women (mean age 66±7 years) with coronary disease were randomized to estrogen, estrogen plus progestin, or placebo, and followed for 3.2 years. Ten standardized epicardial segments were measured for minimal diameter values at baseline and follow-up using quantitative coronary angiography. For this study, mixed-model analysis of covariance was used to: (1) test the association between pulse pressure and change in mean minimum diameter (MMD) adjusted for baseline MMD and (2) the effect of HRT on follow-up pulse pressure. After adjustment for potential confounders, there was a significant graded increase in progression of coronary stenosis with increasing quartiles of baseline pulse pressure (
P
test for trend=0.0001). The progression rate in women with the highest quartile of baseline pulse pressure was 5-fold higher than in women in the lowest quartile (
P
<0.01). In postmenopausal women with coronary disease, increased levels of baseline pulse pressure are associated with subsequent progression of coronary atherosclerosis in postmenopausal women. HRT had no detectable effect on pulse pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish V Nair
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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da Costa LS, de Oliveira MA, Rubim VSM, Wajngarten M, Aldrighi JM, Rosano GM, Neto CD, Gebara OCE. Effects of hormone replacement therapy or raloxifene on ambulatory blood pressure and arterial stiffness in treated hypertensive postmenopausal women. Am J Cardiol 2004; 94:1453-6. [PMID: 15566926 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2004.07.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2004] [Revised: 07/28/2004] [Accepted: 07/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The administration of oral raloxifene in 30 postmenopausal hypertensive women was evaluated to demonstrate its effect on arterial stiffness. Casual and ambulatory blood pressure (BP) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV) data were obtained before and after patients received raloxifene, estrogen-progestin replacement therapy, or placebo in a randomized crossover study. It was shown that the 2 therapies decreased BP and carotid-femoral PWV, and the effect of raloxifene on vascular compliance was independent of the effects on BP.
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Harman SM, Brinton EA, Clarkson T, Heward CB, Hecht HS, Karas RH, Judelson DR, Naftolin F. Is the WHI relevant to HRT started in the perimenopause? Endocrine 2004; 24:195-202. [PMID: 15542885 DOI: 10.1385/endo:24:3:195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2004] [Revised: 08/05/2004] [Accepted: 08/10/2004] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) hormone replacement therapy (HRT) estrogen plus progestin (E+P) and estrogen-only arms are part of a large NIH-sponsored randomized controlled trial (RCT). Both arms were terminated prematurely after 5 and 8 yr, respectively. The E+P arm showed non-statistically significant increased incidences of cardiovascular events and breast cancer, whereas the E-only arm did not. Both arms showed an increased rate of thromboembolic events and stroke. Both arms showed protection against fractures and with protection against colon cancer only in the E+P arm. These results have been widely generalized as indicating a negative risk/benefit ratio for HRT in menopausal women. The WHI results are at odds with results of large epidemiological studies that showed protection against cardiovascular disease. Although the latter data are, in part, confounded by a "healthy user bias," much of the inconsistency may be explained by the fact that women in the latter studies initiated HRT at the menopausal transition, whereas the WHI trial was conducted in older women (mean age 63.3), who were, on average, approx 12 yr postmenopausal. In addition, older trials included women on either unopposed estrogen therapy (ERT) or cyclic HRT regimens. Whatever other forces may have been at work, observational and experimental evidence supports the conclusion that estrogen's atheropreventive effects predominate early, in the absence of vulnerable plaque to be ruptured or thrombotic episodes propagated by narrowed lumens and intravascular turbulence. On the contrary, age-related adverse effects of HRT may prevail once complex atheromas and luminal narrowing/irregularity are established. It is known that prevalence of subclinical "at-risk" atherosclerotic lesions increases in women during the first 5-10 yr after menopause. Furthermore, animal and clinical evidence supports the use of lower doses of estrogen than were employed in the WHI in older/longer postmenopausal women.
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