Gaps in Hypertension Guidelines in Low- and Middle-Income Versus High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Key Updates to the 2024 ESC Hypertension Guidelines and Future Perspectives

Hypertension remains a critical global health challenge, significantly contributing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality despite advancements in treatment. The 2024 ESC hypertension guidelines address persistent gaps in hypertension management by emphasizing comprehensive strategies encompassing early detection, socioeconomic barriers, lifestyle interventions, and personalized care. Enhanced screening protocols, including home and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, aim for accurate diagnosis and risk stratification. Lifestyle recommendations now prioritize reducing sodium intake, increasing potassium consumption, and integrating tailored exercise regimens. Pharmacological updates advocate for single-pill combinations and stringent BP targets (<130/80 mmHg), emphasizing the benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for specific comorbidities. Minimally invasive therapies like renal denervation are explored for resistant hypertension, while digital tools such as telehealth and mobile applications enhance patient engagement and adherence. This multifaceted, patient-centered approach provides a roadmap for optimizing BP control, reducing cardiovascular risks, and addressing the complexities of hypertension in diverse populations.

2024 Latin American Society of Hypertension guidelines on the management of arterial hypertension and related comorbidities in Latin America

Hypertension is responsible for more than two million deaths due to cardiovascular disease annually in Latin America (LATAM), of which one million occurs before 70 years of age. Hypertension is the main risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, affecting between 20 and 40% of LATAM adults. Since the publication of the 2017 LASH hypertension guidelines, reports from different LATAM countries have confirmed the burden of hypertension on cardiovascular disease events and mortality in the region. Many studies in the region have reported and emphasized the dramatically insufficient blood pressure control. The extremely low rates of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension, particularly in patients with metabolic disorders, is a recognized severe problem in LATAM. Earlier implementation of antihypertensive interventions and management of all cardiovascular risk factors is the recognized best strategy to improve the natural history of cardiovascular disease in LATAM. The 2024 LASH guidelines have been developed by a large group of experts from internal medicine, cardiology, nephrology, endocrinology, general medicine, geriatrics, pharmacology, and epidemiology of different countries of LATAM and Europe. A careful search for novel studies on hypertension and related diseases in LATAM, together with the new evidence that emerged since the 2017 LASH guidelines, support all statements and recommendations. This update aims to provide clear, concise, accessible, and useful recommendations for health professionals to improve awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension and associated cardiovascular risk factors in the region.

Efficacy of Auricular Therapy for Motor Impairment After Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

A high number of stroke patients cannot recover fully from motor impairment despite early rehabilitation. Auricular therapies, usually given by acupuncture doctors or nurses, have been widely used among these post-stroke patients. Potential benefits of auricular therapies were shown in recent clinical trials.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this review was to systematically evaluate the clinical effects of auricular therapy in the treatment of post-stroke motor impairment.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane Library, Chinese Biological Medicine (CBM), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang databases were searched from their inception to May 2023. Randomised controlled trials of auricular therapy for the treatment of post-stroke motor impairment met the screening criteria. The primary outcome was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale (FMA). The secondary outcomes included the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity Scale (FMA-UE), Chinese Stroke Scale (CSS), clinical efficacy and the Barthel Index Scale (BI). Meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan software 5.3.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCTs with 1993 patients were included. The meta-analysis results suggested that compared with conventional treatment, auricular therapy combined with conventional treatment significantly improved the FMA score (MD: 15.07, 95% CI, 12.56 to 17.59), the FMA-UE score (MD: 6.49, 95% CI, 5.54 to 7.45), the clinical efficacy (RR: 1.20, 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.29) and the BI score (MD: 10.26, 95% CI, 9.11 to 11.40), while the combination treatment significantly decreased the CSS score (MD: -2.98, 95% CI, -4.38 to -1.59).

CONCLUSION

Auricular therapy, as an adjunctive treatment to the conventional treatment, improved post-stroke motor impairment and self-care ability. Early auricular therapy of the patients in the early disease stage may lead to better improvement. Further well-designed, large-size clinical studies are needed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

This study suggested that auricular therapy could be used as a complementary therapy with conventional treatment for improving motor impairment and self-care ability among post-stroke patients with motor impairment in hospitals, long-term care facilities and homes.

Enhancing Chronic Disease Management: Personalized Medicine Insights from Rural and Urban General Practitioner Practices

Health policies worldwide emphasize managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension through medication and lifestyle modifications. However, translating guidelines into practical application remains challenging, leading to suboptimal care and poor health outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. This study aims to reveal significant differences between rural and urban patients requiring personalized approaches to chronic disease management based on geographical location and demographic data, considering the impact of emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected from rural and urban general practitioner (GP) practices in Poland, covering four years from 2018 to the first quarter of 2021, focusing on diabetes and hypertension epidemiology, risk factors, comorbidities, resource consumption, and disease burden. The findings revealed significant differences between rural and urban patients regarding age, number of patient visits, gender distribution, and types of diagnoses and visit modalities. Rural patients tended to be older, had a higher median number of visits, and exhibited different patterns of diagnoses and visit types compared to urban patients. The study also investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chronic disease treatment, finding that while age at visits increased during the pandemic, there were no significant changes in gender distribution, but a noticeable shift in diagnoses and visit modalities with an increase in remote visits and changes in the prevalence of specific diagnoses. These disparities highlight the need for tailored approaches to chronic disease management based on geographic location and patient demographics. The study underscores the importance of understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in managing chronic diseases across different settings and during public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, aiding healthcare providers and policymakers in developing targeted interventions to improve chronic disease prevention and management, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals and communities. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of the pandemic on chronic disease treatment and assess the effectiveness of interventions to mitigate its impact.

A New Hope for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation: Application of Pulsed-Field Ablation Technology

In recent years, the prevalence of and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases have been rising in most countries and regions. AF is the most common arrhythmic condition, and there are several treatment options for AF. Pulmonary vein isolation is an effective treatment for AF and is the cornerstone of current ablation techniques, which have one major limitation: even when diagnosed and treated at a facility that specializes in ablation, patients have a greater chance of recurrence. Therefore, there is a need to develop better ablation techniques for the treatment of AF. This article first compares the current cryoablation (CBA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) techniques for the treatment of AF and discusses the utility and advantages of the development of pulsed-field ablation (PFA) technology. The current research on PFA is summarized from three perspectives, namely, simulation experiments, animal experiments, and clinical studies. The results of different stages of experiments are summarized, especially during animal studies, where pulmonary vein isolation was carried out effectively without causing injury to the phrenic nerve, esophagus, and pulmonary veins, with higher safety and shorter incision times. This paper focuses on a review of various a priori and clinical studies of this new technique for the treatment of AF.

Standardized treatment protocols for hypertension: global availability, characteristics, and alignment with the hypertension guideline recommendations

BACKGROUND

Hypertension control is suboptimal globally. Implementing evidence-based, simple, standardized treatment protocols (STPs) has been instrumental in effectively and efficiently improving treatment and control of hypertension. We aimed to identify, characterize, and critically appraise hypertension STPs.

METHODS

We defined STP as a series of steps for the pharmacological treatment of primary hypertension, with information on target population, BP threshold for treatment initiation, target BP, specific drugs/classes/doses, and follow-up frequency. STPs for adult patients were identified from the websites of relevant health organizations, Google search, and through expert consultations (until July 2023). STPs for secondary, gestational, or malignant hypertension or those that were templates/samples were excluded. Included STPs were critically appraised using HEARTS in the Americas Checklist for hypertension management in primary care and compared with the 2021 WHO hypertension management guideline recommendations.

RESULTS

Fifty STPs were identified. All STPs had a stepwise treatment approach, involved guideline-recommended first-line drugs, and 98% consisted of at least four steps. Majority (54%) recommended monotherapy with calcium channel blockers as first-line treatment. Only 44% STPs recommended treatment initiation with combination therapy, and 16% recommended single-pill combinations. Most (62%) had dose-intensification as the second step. Most (74%) STPs did not provide complete dosing information. Only one STP mentioned a target time for achieving BP control. On average, STPs scored a performance of 68% on the HEARTS Checklist.

CONCLUSION

Several STPs are available globally; however, most of them have enormous scope for improvement through interventions aimed at alignment with the latest evidence-based guidelines and multistakeholder engagement.

Access to health services and its influence on adherence to treatment of arterial hypertension during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Hospital in Callao, Peru: A cross-sectional study

Background

Access to health services compromises therapeutic adherence in patients with arterial hypertension (HTN), which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature death. The aim of the research is to determine the influence of access to health services on adherence to antihypertensive treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We included a cross-sectional analytical study. A survey was applied to 241 hypertensive patients at the Daniel Alcides Carrión Hospital, Callao-Peru. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Absolute and relative frequencies were reported and the chi-square test was applied with a statistical significance level of p<0.05. In addition, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed using the Stepwise method.

Results

Our results show that non-adherence to treatment is associated with health expenses (ORa: 1.9 CI 95% 1.7-2.2), considers the environment clean (ORa: 1.4 IC 95% 1.2-1.8), not receiving care due to lack of a doctor (ORa: 2.8 CI 95% 1.5-3.2), difficult with procedures (ORa: 2.8 IC 95% 1.2-2.8), having difficulty with schedules (ORa: 3.7 CI 95% 2. 3-5.5), fear of receiving care at the hospital (ORa: 4.5 CI 95 % 2.7-6.8), trust in health staff (ORa: 7.5 CI 95% 2.3-10.5) and considering that the physician does not have enough knowledge (ORa: 3.1 CI 95% 2.4-7.8).

Conclusion

Therapeutic adherence was associated with expenses in the consultation considers the environment clean, not receiving care due to lack of a doctor, difficult with procedures, having difficulty with schedules, fear of receiving care at the hospital, trust in health staff and considering that the physician does not have enough knowledge.

The Role of Diet in the Prevention of Hypertension and Management of Blood Pressure: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses of Interventional and Observational Studies

High blood pressure (BP) is a major pathological risk factor for the development of several cardiovascular diseases. Diet is a key modifier of BP, but the underlying relationships are not clearly demonstrated. This is an umbrella review of published meta-analyses to critically evaluate the wide range of dietary evidence from bioactive compounds to dietary patterns on BP and risk of hypertension. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception until October 31, 2021, for relevant meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses of observational studies. A total of 175 publications reporting 341 meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (145 publications) and 70 meta-analyses of observational studies (30 publications) were included in the review. The methodological quality of the included publications was assessed using Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 and the evidence quality of each selected meta-analysis was assessed using NutriGrade. This umbrella review supports recommended public health guidelines for prevention and control of hypertension. Dietary patterns including the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and the Mediterranean-type diets that further restrict sodium, and moderate alcohol intake are advised. To produce high-quality evidence and substantiate strong recommendations, future research should address areas where the low quality of evidence was observed (for example, intake of dietary fiber, fish, egg, meat, dairy products, fruit juice, and nuts) and emphasize focus on dietary factors not yet conclusively investigated.

Why is there a gap in self-rated health among people with hypertension? A decomposition of determinants and rural-urban differences

Background

Hypertension affects over one billion people globally and is one of the leading causes of premature death. The low- and middle-income countries, especially the sub-Saharan Africa region, bear a disproportionately higher share of hypertension globally. Recent evidence shows a steady shift in the burden of hypertension from the more affluent and urban population towards the poorer and rural communities. Our study examined inequalities in self-rated health among people with hypertension and whether there is a rural-urban gap in the health of these patients. We then quantified factors driving the health gap. We also examined how much HIV accounts for differences in self-rated health among hypertension patients due to the relationship between HIV, hypertension and health in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We utilized the Zambia Household Health Expenditure and Utilization Survey for the data on SRH and other demographic and socioeconomic controls. District HIV prevalence information was from a previous study. The linear probability model provided a preliminary assessment of the association between self-rated health and independent variables. We then used the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition to identify self-rated health inequality between urban and rural patients and determine determinants of the health gap between the two groups.

Results

Advanced age, lower education and low district HIV prevalence were significantly associated with poor health rating among hypertension patients. The decomposition analysis indicated that 45.5% of urban patients and 36.9% of rural patients reported good self-rated health, representing a statistically significant health gap of 8.6%. Most of the identified health gap can be attributed to endowment effects, with education (62%), district HIV prevalence (26%) and household expenditure (12%) being the most important determinants that explain the health gap.

Conclusions

Urban hypertension patients have better SRH than rural patients in Zambia. Educational interventions, financial protection schemes and strengthening hypertension health services in rural areas can significantly reduce the health gap between the two regions.

Understanding factors influencing the use of clinical guidelines in low-income and middle-income settings: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

A scoping review was undertaken to determine the extent to which existing studies have examined factors influencing healthcare providers' use of clinical guidelines in low and middle-income country (LMIC) settings and determine which factors constrain or facilitate the use of clinical guidelines by healthcare providers.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

DATA SOURCES

The literature search was conducted using PubMed in January 2021.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We identified empirical studies, published between 2011-2021 in English, which included clinicians and/or nurses as healthcare providers, used a health facility as the study site, and were located in an LMIC.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Information extracted from the literature review was organised using themes and the findings synthesised using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The review identified five types of interacting factors that influence healthcare providers' use of and compliance with clinical guidelines. The factors identified are organisational factors, factors relating to individual healthcare providers, attributes of the clinical guidelines, patient-related factors and institutional factors. Organisational factors can be further divided into the physical work environment, organisational culture and working conditions. The effective use of clinical guidelines in LMIC settings is greatly impacted by the contextualisation of clinical guidelines, end-user engagement and alignment of the implementation of clinical guidelines with the institutional arrangements in the broader health system.

CONCLUSION

The development and evaluation of concrete interventions is vital to facilitate the implementation of clinical guidelines and improve healthcare service quality. Further studies are necessary to examine the relative importance of the five identified factors on the effective use of clinical guidelines in different contexts.

Healthcare provider's perspectives on home blood pressure management in Peru and Cameroon: Findings from the BPMONITOR study

Home blood pressure management, including self-monitoring and medication self-titration, is an efficient and cost-effective tool. Although its use is increasing globally, little is known about the feasibility of such interventions in low and middle-income countries. Further, the perspectives and experiences of healthcare providers who play a big role in ensuring the success of home blood pressure management interventions have not been documented. This qualitative study was conducted with a total of 35 healthcare providers (60% female, mean [SD] age = 37.3 [6.9 years] years), through 4 in-depth interviews from Peru, and 8 in-depth interviews and 4 focus groups from Cameroon. Study participants (healthcare providers) include physicians (primary care physicians), specialists (cardiologists and geriatricians), and nurses that were purposively recruited from two hospitals in two of the largest cities in both countries. Results were thematically analyzed by two researchers. Themes derived were related to feasibility and acceptability, and largely reflected providers in both countries endorsing home blood pressure management. Providers' concerns were in three main areas; 1) safety of patients when they self-titrate medications, 2) resources such as healthcare financing, local hospital policies that support communications with patients for home blood pressure management, and 3) sustainability through patient adherence, incorporating home blood pressure management within clinical guidelines and hospital policies, and complementing with continued health education and lifestyle modifications. According to providers, home blood pressure management may be feasible and acceptable if tailored multi-faceted protocols were introduced bearing in mind local contexts.

Blood Pressure Association with the 8-Item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale in Hypertensive Adults from Low-Resource Primary Care Settings: Results from a Prospective Cohort Nested within a Randomised Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

One of the self-report adherence scales most widely used is the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8).

AIM

To evaluate construct validity and reliability of the MMAS-8 in hypertensive adults from low-resource settings within the public primary care level in Argentina.

METHODS

Prospective data from hypertensive adults under antihypertensive pharmacological treatment that participated in the "Hypertension Control Program in Argentina" study was analyzed. Participants were followed at baseline, 6, 12 and 18 months. Based on MMAS-8, adherence was defined as low (score < 6), medium (score 6 to < 8) and high (score of 8).

RESULTS

1214 participants were included in the analysis. In comparison to low adherence, high adherence category was associated with a reduction of - 5.6 mmHg (CI 95%: - 7.2; - 4.0) in systolic blood pressure (BP) and - 3.2 mmHg (CI 95%: - 4.2; - 2.2) in diastolic BP; and with a 56% higher likelihood to have controlled BP (p < .0001). Among those participants with baseline score ≤ 6, two points increase in MMAS-8 along follow-up showed a tendency to reduce BP in almost all-time points and a 34% higher likelihood of having controlled BP at the end of the follow-up (p = 0.0039). Cronbach's alpha total-item values in all time-points were higher than 0.70.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher MMAS-8 categories were positively associated with BP reduction and higher likelihood of BP control over time. Internal consistency was acceptable and in line with previous studies.

Factors associated with higher quality of clinical practice guidelines and their recommendations for the pharmacological treatment of depression: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the quality of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the pharmacological treatment of depression along with their recommendations and factors associated with higher quality.

DESIGN

We conducted a systematic review that included CPGs for the pharmacological treatment of depression in adults.

DATA SOURCES

We searched for publications from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2021, in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, BVS and 12 other databases and guideline repositories.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

We included CPGs containing recommendations for the pharmacological treatment of depression in adults at outpatient care setting, regardless of whether it met the U.S. National Academy of Medicine criteria, or not. If a CPG included recommendations for both children and adults, they were considered. No language restriction was applied.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Data extraction was also conducted independently and in duplicate, a process that was validated in a previous project. The quality of the CPGs and their recommendations were assessed by three independent reviewers using Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) and Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation-Recommendations Excellence (AGREE-REX). A CPG was considered to be of high quality if AGREE II Domain 3 was ≥60%; while their recommendations were considered high if AGREE-REX Domain 1 was ≥60%.

RESULTS

Seventeen out of 63 (27%) CPGs were classified as high quality, while 7 (11.1%) had high-quality recommendations. The factors associated with higher-scoring CPGs and recommendations in the multiple linear regression analyses were 'Handling of conflicts of interest', 'Multiprofessional team' and 'Type of institution'. 'Inclusion of patient representative in the team' was also associated with higher-quality recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

The involvement of professionals from diverse backgrounds, the handling of conflicts of interest, and the inclusion of patients' perspectives should be prioritised by developers aiming for high-quality CPGs for the treatment of depression.

Barriers and Facilitators in the Implementation of Prevention Strategies for Chronic Disease Patients-Best Practice GuideLines and Policies' Systematic Review

Visits of chronically ill patients account for 80% of primary care consultations. Approximately 15-38% of patients have three or more chronic diseases, and 30% of hospitalisations result from the deteriorating clinical condition of these patients. The burden of chronic disease and multimorbidity is increasing in combination with the growing population of elderly people. However, many interventions found to be effective in health service studies fail to translate into meaningful patient care outcomes across multiple contexts. With the growing burden of chronic diseases, healthcare providers, health policymakers, and other healthcare system stakeholders are re-examining their strategies and opportunities for more effective prevention and clinical interventions. The study aimed to find the best practice guidelines and policies influencing effective intervention and making it possible to personalize prevention strategies. Apart from clinical treatment, it is essential to increase the effectiveness of non-clinical interventions that could empower chronic patients to increase their involvement in therapy. The review focuses on the best practice guidelines and policies in non-medical interventions and the barriers to and facilitators of their implementation into everyday practice. A systematic review of practice guidelines and policies was conducted to answer the research question. The authors screened databases and included 47 full-text recent studies in the qualitative synthesis.

Effectiveness of a mHealth intervention on hypertension control in a low-resource rural setting: A randomized clinical trial

Background

Despite the increasing popularity of mHealth, little evidence indicates that they can improve health outcomes. Mobile health interventions (mHealth) have been shown as an attractive approach for health-care systems with limited resources. To determine whether mHealth would reduce blood pressure, promote weight loss, and improve hypertension compliance, self-efficacy and life quality in individuals with hypertension living in low-resource rural settings in Hubei, China.

Methods

In this parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, we recruited individuals from health-care centers, home visits, and community centers in low-resource rural settings in Hubei, China. Of 200 participants who were screened, 148 completed consent, met inclusion criteria, and were randomly assigned in a ratio of 1:1 to control or intervention. Intervention group participants were instructed to use the Monitoring Wearable Device and download a Smartphone Application, which includes reminder alerts, adherence reports, medical instruction and optional family support. Changes in the index of Cardiovascular health risk factors from baseline to end of follow-up. Secondary outcomes were change in hypertension compliance, self-efficacy and life quality at 12 weeks.

Results

Participants (n = 134; 66 in the intervention group and 68 controls) had a mean age of 61.73 years, 61.94% were male. After 12 weeks, the mean (SD) systolic blood pressure decreased by 8.52 (19.73) mm Hg in the intervention group and by 1.25 (12.47) mm Hg in the control group (between-group difference, -7.265 mm Hg; 95% CI, -12.89 to -1.64 mm Hg; P = 0.012), While, there was no difference in the change in diastolic blood pressure between the two groups (between-group difference, -0.41 mm Hg; 95% CI, -3.56 to 2.74 mm Hg; P = 0.797). After 12 weeks of follow-up, the mean (SD) hypertension compliance increased by 7.35 (7.31) in the intervention group and by 3.01 (4.92) in the control group (between-group difference, 4.334; 95% CI, 2.21 to -6.46; P < 0.01), the mean (SD) hypertension compliance increased by 12.89 (11.95) in the intervention group and by 5.43 (10.54) in the control group (between-group difference, 7.47; 95% CI, 3.62 to 11.31; P < 0.01), the mean (SD) physical health increased by 12.21 (10.77) in the intervention group and by 1.54 (7.18) in the control group (between-group difference, 10.66; 95% CI, 7.54-13.78; P < 0.01), the mean (SD) mental health increased by 13.17 (9.25) in the intervention group and by 2.55 (5.99) in the control group (between-group difference, 10.93; 95% CI, 7.74 to 14.12; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Among participants with uncontrolled hypertension, individuals randomized to use a monitoring wearable device with a smartphone application had a significant improvement in self-reported hypertension compliance, self-efficacy, life quality, weight loss and diastolic blood pressure, but no change in systolic blood pressure compared with controls.

Applicability of European Society of Cardiology guidelines according to gross national income

AIMS

To assess the feasibility to comply with the recommended actions of ESC guidelines on general cardiology areas in 102 countries and assess how compliance relates to the country's income level.

METHODS AND RESULTS

All recommendations from seven ESC guidelines on general cardiology areas were extracted and labelled on recommended actions. A survey was sent to all 102 ESC national and affiliated cardiac societies (NCSs). Respondents were asked to score recommended actions on their availability in clinical practice on a four-point Likert scale (fully available, mostly/often available, mostly/often unavailable, fully unavailable), and select the top three barriers perceived as being responsible for limiting their national availability. Applicability was assessed overall, per World Bank gross national income (GNI) level, and per guideline.A total of 875 guideline recommendations on general cardiology was extracted. Responses were received from 64 of 102 (62.7%) NCSs. On average, 71·6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 68.6-74.6] of the actions were fully available, 9.9% (95% CI: 8.7-11.1) mostly/often available, 6.7% (95% CI: 5.4-8.0) mostly/often unavailable, and 11·8% (95% CI: 9.5-14.1) fully unavailable. In low-income countries (LICs), substantially more actions were fully unavailable [29·4% (95% CI: 22.6-36.3)] compared with high-income countries [HICs, countries 2.4% (95% CI: 1.2-3.7); P < 0.05]. Nevertheless, a proportion of actions with the lowest availability scores were often fully or mostly unavailable independent of GNIs. Actions were most often not available due to lack of reimbursement and other financial barriers.

CONCLUSION

Local implementation of ESC guidelines on general cardiology is high in HICs and low in LICs , being inversely correlated with country gross national incomes.

[Synthesis of evidence and recommendations: guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of arterial hypertension in adultsSíntese de evidências e recomendações: diretrizes para o tratamento farmacológico da hipertensão arterial em adultos]

Introduction

Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure) is one of the most prevalent chronic noncommunicable diseases. It is a cause of cardiovascular disease and is the leading attributable cause of death in the Region of the Americas.

Objectives

Synthesize the recommendations developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to improve the quality of care and health outcomes of adults with high blood pressure, and address aspects of implementing these recommendations.

Methods

A synthesis was conducted of the recommendations contained in the WHO Guideline for the pharmacological treatment of hypertension in adults. In addition, a systematic search for studies carried out in the Region of the Americas was conducted in PubMed, Lilacs, Health Systems Evidence, Epistemonikos, and gray literature in order to identify barriers, facilitators, and implementation strategies.

Results

Ten recommendations were made for adults with high blood pressure. Implementation barriers, facilitators, and strategies were identified, and indicators were created for assessing treatment adherence and outcomes.

Conclusions

The formulated recommendations aim to provide guidance on how to approach the pharmacological treatment of hypertension in adults, except pregnant women, as well as considerations for implementation of the recommendations in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Prevention and control of non-communicable diseases in antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care: a systematic scoping review of clinical practice guidelines since 2011

BACKGROUND

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. The World Health Organization is developing new recommendations focusing on the management of NCDs for pregnant, intrapartum, and postnatal women. Thus, to support the development of new guidelines and recommendations, we aimed to determine the availability, focus, and scope of recommendations of current guidelines for the management of NCDs during pregnancy, intrapartum, and postnatal period.

METHODS

PubMed, Global Index Medicus, TRIP, and Guideline International Network databases were searched on 31 May 2021, to identify any NCD-related guidelines published between 2011 and 2021 with no language or country restrictions. Websites of 165 professional organizations were also searched. Characteristics of included guidelines were analyzed, and recommendations were extracted from guidelines of five high-priority NCD conditions (diabetes, chronic hypertension, respiratory conditions, hemoglobinopathies and sickle cell disease, and mental and substance use disorders).

RESULTS

From 6026 citations and 165 websites, 405 guidelines were included of which 132 (33%) were pregnancy-specific and 285 (88%) were developed in high-income countries. Among pregnancy-specific guidelines, the most common conditions for which recommendations were provided were gestational diabetes, circulatory diseases, thyroid disorders, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. For the five high-priority conditions, 47 guidelines were identified which provided 1834 recommendations, largely focused on antenatal care interventions (62%) such as early detection, screening tools, pharmacological treatment, and lifestyle education. Postnatal recommendations largely covered postnatal clinical assessments, lifestyle education, and breastfeeding. Health system recommendations largely covered multidisciplinary care teams and strengthening referral pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a robust assessment of currently available guidelines and mapping of recommendations on NCD management within maternal health services, which will inform the scope of the World Health Organization's future guideline development activities. This study identified a need to develop guidelines that consider NCDs holistically, with an integrated approach to antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care, and that are relevant for resource-limited contexts. Any such guidelines should consider what interventions are most essential to improving outcomes for women with NCDs and their newborns, and how variations in quality of NCD-related care can be addressed.

Updates in hypertension: new trials, targets and ways of measuring blood pressure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Several recent trials and observational studies have identified critical areas that can help to improve the management and measurement of blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

RECENT FINDINGS

High-quality trial evidence supports intensive SBP lowering to 110-130 mmHg in older patients, potassium- based salt substitution in patients without chronic kidney disease, and chlorthalidone for the management of hypertension in patients with chronic kidney disease. In addition, population-based studies indicate enormous underdiagnosis of primary aldosteronism as well as greater sustained intensification of antihypertensive therapy in older patients by maximizing medication dosage rather than adding new agents. The prevalence of hypertension is stable worldwide, though is generally improving in high-income countries and worsening in low-income countries. Furthermore, although cuffless blood pressure devices have the potential to improve access to blood pressure measurement, they have not yet demonstrated sufficient accuracy for clinical use.

SUMMARY

Growing evidence supports intensive blood pressure lowering, sodium reduction, targeted antihypertensive treatment and appropriate screening for secondary hypertension to optimize blood pressure control and reduce the risk of target organ damage from hypertension. Future studies are needed to identify ways to improve our ability to implement these findings in routine clinical practice.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2022 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2022 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population and an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, and the global burden of cardiovascular disease and healthy life expectancy.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Implementing Single-Pill Combination Therapy for Hypertension: A Scoping Review of Key Health System Requirements in 30 Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Objective

The World Health Organization (WHO) included single-pill combination (SPC) antihypertensive medications on their 2019 essential medicines list (EML) to encourage uptake and improved hypertension control. We documented key national-level facilitators (SPCs on national EMLs, recommendation for SPCs in national hypertension guidelines and availability of SPCs on the market) supporting uptake of SPCs in the 30 most populous low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

A hierarchical information gathering strategy was used including literature and web searches, the use of organisational databases and personal communications with colleagues to obtain information on (1) whether SPC antihypertensives are on national EMLs, (2) whether SPC antihypertensives are recommended in national hypertension guidelines and (3) whether SPCs are available on the market.

Results

Eleven of 30 LMICs had all facilitators in place being Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Sudan, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Iran, Argentina, Colombia and Mexico. Twenty-six countries had national hypertension guidelines (or similar) in place with SPCs being recommended in 18 of these. Apart from Afghanistan, SPCs were available on the market in all countries. The facilitator least present was the inclusion of SPC antihypertensives on national EMLs at 12 of 29 (Turkey does not have an EML).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that many LMICs have made significant progress in their uptake of SPC antihypertensives and several had included SPCs on their EMLs and guidelines prior to their inclusion on the WHO EML. Despite this progress, the uptake of SPC antihypertensives in LMICs could be improved including through their further inclusion on EMLs.

Timed up and go test predicts mortality in older adults in Peru: a population-based cohort study

Background

While there is evidence about stablished risk factors (e.g., raised blood pressure) and higher mortality risk in older population, less has been explored about other functional parameters like the Timed Up and Go test and the Gait Speed in older people at low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to study these mobility tests as predictors of mortality in a population of older people in Peru.

Methods

Population-based prospective cohort study (2013–2020). Random sampling of people aged 60+ years in a community of Lima, Peru. Geriatricians conducted all clinical evaluations and laboratory tests were conducted in the local hospital. Participants were sought in the national vital registration system, and we collated cause (ICD-10) and date of death. We conducted a nested forward multivariate Cox proportional hazard model to identify all potential predictors of all-cause, communicable and non-communicable diseases mortality.

Results

At baseline, there were 501 older people (mean age 70.6 and 62.8% were women), complete follow-up information was available from 427 people. Mean follow-up time was 46.5 months (SD = 25.3). In multivariate models, the Timed Up and Go test was associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.09). For cause-specific mortality, history of heart disease (HR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.07–4.76) and age in years (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.09) were predictors of non-communicable diseases mortality.

Conclusions

In addition to established risk factors for mortality in older population, the Timed Up and Go test, a functional parameter, raised as a relevant predictor of all-cause mortality.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-02749-6.

Assessment of hypertension association with arsenic exposure from food and drinking water in Bihar, India

Epidemiological studies have associated chronic exposure to arsenic (As) from drinking water with increased risk of hypertension. However, evidence of an association between As exposure from food and hypertension risks is sparse. To quantify the association between daily As intake from both food (rice, wheat and potatoes) and drinking water (As_water) along with total exposure (As_total) and hypertension risks in a study population in Bihar, India, we conducted an individual level cross-sectional analysis between 2017 and 2019 involving 150 participants. Arsenic intake variables and three indicators of hypertension risks (general hypertension, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)) were derived, and any relationship was quantified using a series of crude and multivariable log-linear or logistic regression models. The prevalence of general hypertension was 40% for the studied population. The median level of HDL was 45 mg/dL while median value of LDL was 114 mg/dL. Apart from a marginally significant positive relationship between As intake from rice and the changes of LDL (p-value = 0.032), no significant positive association between As intake and hypertension risks could be ascertained. In fact, As_total was found to be associated with lower risks of general hypertension and higher levels of HDL (p-value = 0.020 and 0.010 respectively) whilst general hypertension was marginally associated with lower As_water (p-value = 0.043). Due to limitations regarding study design and residual confounding, all observed marginal associations should be treated with caution.

Global, regional, and national burden of stroke and its risk factors, 1990-2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Regularly updated data on stroke and its pathological types, including data on their incidence, prevalence, mortality, disability, risk factors, and epidemiological trends, are important for evidence-based stroke care planning and resource allocation. The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) aims to provide a standardised and comprehensive measurement of these metrics at global, regional, and national levels.

METHODS

We applied GBD 2019 analytical tools to calculate stroke incidence, prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and the population attributable fraction (PAF) of DALYs (with corresponding 95% uncertainty intervals [UIs]) associated with 19 risk factors, for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019. These estimates were provided for ischaemic stroke, intracerebral haemorrhage, subarachnoid haemorrhage, and all strokes combined, and stratified by sex, age group, and World Bank country income level.

FINDINGS

In 2019, there were 12·2 million (95% UI 11·0-13·6) incident cases of stroke, 101 million (93·2-111) prevalent cases of stroke, 143 million (133-153) DALYs due to stroke, and 6·55 million (6·00-7·02) deaths from stroke. Globally, stroke remained the second-leading cause of death (11·6% [10·8-12·2] of total deaths) and the third-leading cause of death and disability combined (5·7% [5·1-6·2] of total DALYs) in 2019. From 1990 to 2019, the absolute number of incident strokes increased by 70·0% (67·0-73·0), prevalent strokes increased by 85·0% (83·0-88·0), deaths from stroke increased by 43·0% (31·0-55·0), and DALYs due to stroke increased by 32·0% (22·0-42·0). During the same period, age-standardised rates of stroke incidence decreased by 17·0% (15·0-18·0), mortality decreased by 36·0% (31·0-42·0), prevalence decreased by 6·0% (5·0-7·0), and DALYs decreased by 36·0% (31·0-42·0). However, among people younger than 70 years, prevalence rates increased by 22·0% (21·0-24·0) and incidence rates increased by 15·0% (12·0-18·0). In 2019, the age-standardised stroke-related mortality rate was 3·6 (3·5-3·8) times higher in the World Bank low-income group than in the World Bank high-income group, and the age-standardised stroke-related DALY rate was 3·7 (3·5-3·9) times higher in the low-income group than the high-income group. Ischaemic stroke constituted 62·4% of all incident strokes in 2019 (7·63 million [6·57-8·96]), while intracerebral haemorrhage constituted 27·9% (3·41 million [2·97-3·91]) and subarachnoid haemorrhage constituted 9·7% (1·18 million [1·01-1·39]). In 2019, the five leading risk factors for stroke were high systolic blood pressure (contributing to 79·6 million [67·7-90·8] DALYs or 55·5% [48·2-62·0] of total stroke DALYs), high body-mass index (34·9 million [22·3-48·6] DALYs or 24·3% [15·7-33·2]), high fasting plasma glucose (28·9 million [19·8-41·5] DALYs or 20·2% [13·8-29·1]), ambient particulate matter pollution (28·7 million [23·4-33·4] DALYs or 20·1% [16·6-23·0]), and smoking (25·3 million [22·6-28·2] DALYs or 17·6% [16·4-19·0]).

INTERPRETATION

The annual number of strokes and deaths due to stroke increased substantially from 1990 to 2019, despite substantial reductions in age-standardised rates, particularly among people older than 70 years. The highest age-standardised stroke-related mortality and DALY rates were in the World Bank low-income group. The fastest-growing risk factor for stroke between 1990 and 2019 was high body-mass index. Without urgent implementation of effective primary prevention strategies, the stroke burden will probably continue to grow across the world, particularly in low-income countries.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Worldwide trends in hypertension prevalence and progress in treatment and control from 1990 to 2019: a pooled analysis of 1201 population-representative studies with 104 million participants

BACKGROUND

Hypertension can be detected at the primary health-care level and low-cost treatments can effectively control hypertension. We aimed to measure the prevalence of hypertension and progress in its detection, treatment, and control from 1990 to 2019 for 200 countries and territories.

METHODS

We used data from 1990 to 2019 on people aged 30-79 years from population-representative studies with measurement of blood pressure and data on blood pressure treatment. We defined hypertension as having systolic blood pressure 140 mm Hg or greater, diastolic blood pressure 90 mm Hg or greater, or taking medication for hypertension. We applied a Bayesian hierarchical model to estimate the prevalence of hypertension and the proportion of people with hypertension who had a previous diagnosis (detection), who were taking medication for hypertension (treatment), and whose hypertension was controlled to below 140/90 mm Hg (control). The model allowed for trends over time to be non-linear and to vary by age.

FINDINGS

The number of people aged 30-79 years with hypertension doubled from 1990 to 2019, from 331 (95% credible interval 306-359) million women and 317 (292-344) million men in 1990 to 626 (584-668) million women and 652 (604-698) million men in 2019, despite stable global age-standardised prevalence. In 2019, age-standardised hypertension prevalence was lowest in Canada and Peru for both men and women; in Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, and some countries in western Europe including Switzerland, Spain, and the UK for women; and in several low-income and middle-income countries such as Eritrea, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Solomon Islands for men. Hypertension prevalence surpassed 50% for women in two countries and men in nine countries, in central and eastern Europe, central Asia, Oceania, and Latin America. Globally, 59% (55-62) of women and 49% (46-52) of men with hypertension reported a previous diagnosis of hypertension in 2019, and 47% (43-51) of women and 38% (35-41) of men were treated. Control rates among people with hypertension in 2019 were 23% (20-27) for women and 18% (16-21) for men. In 2019, treatment and control rates were highest in South Korea, Canada, and Iceland (treatment >70%; control >50%), followed by the USA, Costa Rica, Germany, Portugal, and Taiwan. Treatment rates were less than 25% for women and less than 20% for men in Nepal, Indonesia, and some countries in sub-Saharan Africa and Oceania. Control rates were below 10% for women and men in these countries and for men in some countries in north Africa, central and south Asia, and eastern Europe. Treatment and control rates have improved in most countries since 1990, but we found little change in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa and Oceania. Improvements were largest in high-income countries, central Europe, and some upper-middle-income and recently high-income countries including Costa Rica, Taiwan, Kazakhstan, South Africa, Brazil, Chile, Turkey, and Iran.

INTERPRETATION

Improvements in the detection, treatment, and control of hypertension have varied substantially across countries, with some middle-income countries now outperforming most high-income nations. The dual approach of reducing hypertension prevalence through primary prevention and enhancing its treatment and control is achievable not only in high-income countries but also in low-income and middle-income settings.

FUNDING

WHO.

A comparative analysis and review of how national guidelines for chronic disease monitoring are made in low- and middle-income compared to high-income countries

BACKGROUND

Understanding how clinical practice guidelines and recommendations are adopted in high-income and low-income settings will help contextualise the value and validity of recommendations in different settings. We investigate how major guidelines and recommendations are developed for management and monitoring of post-diagnosis treatment for three important chronic diseases: HIV, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

Eligible guidelines were searched for using PubMed, Google, and health ministry websites for all three conditions. Only guidelines published from 2010 to 2020 were included. The source of the guidelines, year of most recent guideline, and basis of the guidelines were assessed. Additionally, recommendations, the strength of the recommendation and the quality of the evidence for treatment goals of non-pregnant adults and the frequency of monitoring were also extracted and assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 42 countries searched 90%, 71% and 60% had T2DM, hypertension and HIV guidelines outlining targets for long-term management, respectively. Most T2DM guidelines recommend an HbA1c target of ≤7.0% (68%) or ≤6.5% (24%) as the ideal glycaemic target for most non-pregnant adults, while hypertension guidelines recommend blood pressure (systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure) targets of <140/90 mm Hg (94%) and <130/80 mm Hg (6%). Of the identified HIV guidelines, 67% define virological failure as a viral load >1000 copies/mL, with 26%, mostly HICs, defining virological failure as a viral load >200 copies/mL. Recommendations for the frequency of monitoring for any diagnosed patients were available in 18 (55%) of the hypertension guidelines, 25 (93%) of HIV guidelines, and 27 (73%) of the T2DM guidelines. Only a few of the guidelines provide the strength of the recommendation and the quality of the evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Most guidelines from LMICs are adopted or adapted from existing HIC guidelines or international and regional organisation guidelines with little consideration for resource availability, contextual factors, logistical issues and general feasibility.

Mean blood pressure according to the hypertension care cascade: Analysis of six national health surveys in Peru

Background

While we have good evidence about the hypertension care cascade, we do not know the mean blood pressure (BP) in these groups. We described the mean BP in four groups based on the hypertension care cascade at the national and sub-national levels in Peru.

Methods

Descriptive analysis of six national health surveys. Blood pressure was measured twice and the second record herein analysed. We defined four groups: i) people with self-reported hypertension diagnosis receiving antihypertensive medication; ii) people with self-reported hypertension diagnosis not receiving antihypertensive medication; iii) people unaware they have hypertension with blood pressure ≥140 or 90 mmHg; and iv) otherwise healthy people.

Findings

There were 125,066 people; mean age was 49.8 years and there were more women (51.7%). At the national level, in men and women and throughout the study period, we observed that the mean systolic BP (SBP) was the highest in people unaware they have hypertension; the mean SBP was similar between those with and without antihypertension medication, yet slightly higher in the former group. At the sub-national level, even though the mean SBP in the unaware group was usually the highest, there were some regions and years in which the mean SBP was the highest in the untreated and treated groups.

Interpretation

These results complement the hypertension care cascade with a clinically relevant parameter: mean BP. The results point where policies may be needed to secure effective interventions to control hypertension in Peru, suggesting that improving early diagnosis and treatment coverage could be priorities.

Funding

Wellcome Trust (214185/Z/18/Z).

Quality of stroke guidelines in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To identify gaps in national stroke guidelines that could be bridged to enhance the quality of stroke care services in low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS

We systematically searched medical databases and websites of medical societies and contacted international organizations. Country-specific guidelines on care and control of stroke in any language published from 2010 to 2020 were eligible for inclusion. We reviewed each included guideline for coverage of four key components of stroke services (surveillance, prevention, acute care and rehabilitation). We also assessed compliance with the eight Institute of Medicine standards for clinical practice guidelines, the ease of implementation of guidelines and plans for dissemination to target audiences.

FINDINGS

We reviewed 108 eligible guidelines from 47 countries, including four low-income, 24 middle-income and 19 high-income countries. Globally, fewer of the guidelines covered primary stroke prevention compared with other components of care, with none recommending surveillance. Guidelines on stroke in low- and middle-income countries fell short of the required standards for guideline development; breadth of target audience; coverage of the four components of stroke services; and adaptation to socioeconomic context. Fewer low- and middle-income country guidelines demonstrated transparency than those from high-income countries. Less than a quarter of guidelines encompassed detailed implementation plans and socioeconomic considerations.

CONCLUSION

Guidelines on stroke in low- and middle-income countries need to be developed in conjunction with a wider category of health-care providers and stakeholders, with a full spectrum of translatable, context-appropriate interventions.

The factors influencing clinician use of hypertension guidelines in different resource settings: a qualitative study investigating clinicians' perspectives and experiences

BACKGROUND

Hypertension accounts for the greatest burden of disease worldwide, yet hypertension awareness and control rates are suboptimal, especially within low- and middle-income countries. Guidelines can enable consistency of care and improve health outcomes. A small body of studies investigating clinicians' perceptions and implementation of hypertension guidelines exists, mostly focussed on higher income settings. This study aims to explore how hypertension guidelines are used by clinicians across different resource settings, and the factors influencing their use.

METHODS

A qualitative approach was employed using convenience sampling and in-depth semi-structured interviews. Seventeen medical doctors were interviewed over video or telephone call from March to August 2020. Two clinicians worked in low-income countries, ten in middle-income countries, and five in high-income countries. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded inductively. Reflexive thematic analysis was used.

RESULTS

Themes were generated at three levels at which clinicians perceived influencing factors to be operating: healthcare worker, healthcare worker interactions with patients, and the wider health system. Within each level, influencing factors were described as barriers to and facilitators of guideline use. Variation in factors occurred across income settings. At the healthcare worker level, usability of guidelines, trust in guidelines, attitudes and views about guidelines' purpose, and relevance to patient populations were identified as themes. Influencing factors at the health system level were accessibility of equipment and medications, workforce, and access to healthcare settings. Influences at the patient level were clinician perceived patient motivation and health literacy, and access to, and cost of treatment, although these represented doctors' perceptions rather than patient perceived factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study adds a high level global view to previous studies investigating clinician perspectives on hypertension guideline use. Guidelines should be evidence-based, regularly updated and attention should be given to increasing applicability to LMICs and a range of healthcare professionals.

Exploratory study of the association in the United Kingdom between hypertension and inorganic arsenic (iAs) intake from rice and rice products

Hypertension risks arising from chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) are well documented. Consumption of rice is a major iAs exposure route for over 3 billion people; however, there is a lack of epidemiological evidence demonstrating an association of hypertension risks with iAs intake from rice, especially in areas where there is little exposure from drinking water but a growing demand for rice intake. To address this, we conducted an individual-level cross-sectional analysis to quantify the extent to which daily iAs intake from rice and rice products (E-iAsing,rice) modifies the association between hypertension risks and previously well-established risk factors. The analysis was based on secondary dietary, socio-demographic and health status data of 598 participants recorded in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2014-2016. E-iAsing,rice and five blood pressure endpoints were derived with potential associations explored through generalized linear models. According to the results, a negative but not significant relationship was found between hypertension risks and E-iAsing,rice after adjusting for major risk factors, notably age, gender, diabetes and obesity, with relatively higher risks being observed for male, middle-aged, overweight, alcohol consumer or Asian or Asian British, Black or Black British and mixed ethnic groups. Though inconclusive and mainly limited by potential incomplete adjustment for major confounders and intrinsic disadvantages of a cross-sectional design, this study was the first quantifying the individual level dose-response relationship between E-iAsing,rice and hypertension risks and is consistent with previous studies on the limited associations of hypertension with low-level arsenic exposure from drinking water. Larger scale cohort studies are indicated to quantify the association but in any event it is likely to be weak.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2021 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2021 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, the global burden of cardiovascular disease, and further evidence-based approaches to changing behaviors related to cardiovascular disease.

RESULTS

Each of the 27 chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Assessing the Quality of Clinical Practice Guidelines in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region: A Systematic Review

AIM

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have progressively become a popular tool for making optimal clinical decisions. The literature shows that the poor quality of CPGs can form a barrier against adhering to them, resulting in a suboptimal level of healthcare. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the quality of CPGs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II (AGREE II) Instrument.

METHODS

The authors searched in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through the Ovid interface on May 25, 2019. Keywords relating to CPGs and MENA countries were combined using Boolean search operators. The search was not limited to specific diseases. The quality of guidelines was appraised by two reviewers independently using the AGREE II Instrument. Discrepancies within a group were resolved through the involvement of a principle investigator.

RESULTS

A total of 61 CPGs were appraised. These guidelines were mainly from Saudi Arabia, and the most covered disease topic was cancer. Among the six domains of the AGREE II Instrument, CPGs scored the highest on clarity of presentation (mean 82%), while the lowest score was granted to the rigor of development domain (mean 28%). This indicates substantial deficiencies in reporting the developmental processes of CPGs and the resources used for the synthesis of evidence.

CONCLUSION

From this review, it was found that the number of retrieved guidelines published in the MENA region is limited considering the large geographical area of the MENA region. The main domains that have higher quality scores were clarity of presentation and scope and purpose, whereas domains with the lowest scores were rigor of development and applicability. The authors' findings will help policymakers identify areas for improvement in CPGs, which can lead them to implement strategies such as the training of individuals and recruitment of international experts to ultimately develop high-quality CPGs.

Gaps in COPD Guidelines of Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Guidelines are critical for facilitating cost-effective COPD care. Development and implementation in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) is challenging. To guide future strategy, an overview of current global COPD guidelines is required.

RESEARCH QUESTION

We systematically reviewed national COPD guidelines, focusing on worldwide availability and identification of potential development, content, context, and quality gaps that may hamper effective implementation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Scoping review of national COPD management guidelines. We assessed: (1) global guideline coverage; (2) guideline information (authors, target audience, dissemination plans); (3) content (prevention, diagnosis, treatments); (4) ethical, legal, and socio-economic aspects; and (5) compliance with the eight Institute of Medicine (IOM) guideline standards. LMICs guidelines were compared with those from high-income countries (HICs).

RESULTS

Of the 61 national COPD guidelines identified, 30 were from LMICs. Guidelines did not cover 1.93 billion (30.2%) people living in LMICs, whereas only 0.02 billion (1.9%) in HICs were without national guidelines. Compared with HICs, LMIC guidelines targeted fewer health-care professional groups and less often addressed case finding and co-morbidities. More than 90% of all guidelines included smoking cessation advice. Air pollution reduction strategies were less frequently mentioned in both LMICs (47%) and HICs (42%). LMIC guidelines fulfilled on average 3.37 (42%) of IOM standards, compared with 5.29 (66%) in HICs (P < .05). LMICs scored significantly lower compared with HICs regarding conflicts of interest management, updates, articulation of recommendations, and funding transparency (all, P < .05).

INTERPRETATION

Several development, content, context, and quality gaps exist in COPD guidelines from LMICs that may hamper effective implementation. Overall, COPD guidelines in LMICs should be more widely available and should be transparently developed and updated. Guidelines may be further enhanced by better inclusion of local risk factors, case findings, and co-morbidity management, preferably tailored to available financial and staff resources.

Blood Pressure Management in Acute Ischemic Stroke

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Abrupt blood pressure (BP) rise is the most common clinical symptom of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, BP alterations during AIS reflect many diverse mechanisms, both stroke-related and nonspecific epiphenomena, which change over time and across patients. While extremes of BP as well as high BP variability have been related with worse outcomes in observational studies, optimal BP management after AIS remains challenging.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review discusses the complexity of the factors linking BP changes to the clinical outcomes of patients with AIS, depending on the treatment strategy and local vessel status and, in particular, the degree of reperfusion achieved. The evidence for possible additional clinical markers, including the presence of arterial hypertension, and comorbid organ dysfunction in individuals with AIS, as informative and helpful factors in therapeutic decision-making concerning BP will be reviewed, as well as recent data on neurovascular monitoring targeting person-specific local cerebral perfusion and metabolic demand, instead of the global traditional parameters (BP among others) alone. The individualization of BP management protocols based on a complex evaluation of the homeostatic response to focal cerebral ischemia, including but not limited to BP changes, may be a valuable novel goal proposed in AIS, but further trials are warranted.

Hypertension and Diabetes Management Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Imo and Kaduna States, Nigeria: An Exploratory Study

INTRODUCTION

Effective management of hypertension and diabetes through accurate diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications and early deaths. This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study aimed at determining practices regarding hypertension and type 2 diabetes management among healthcare providers in Kaduna and Imo States, Nigeria. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire consisting of questions across four major domains: 1) screening; 2) diagnosis; 3) pharmacological; and 4) non-pharmacological treatment of hypertension and diabetes.

RESULTS

A total of 77 healthcare providers were interviewed and they included; 20 (26.5%) medical doctors, 25 (32.5%) nurses/midwives, 18 (23.4%) community health extension workers and 3 (3.9%) pharmacists. Almost half (46.8%) of the respondents indicated that they prioritize routine blood pressure (BP) checks among all adult patients while only 30 (39.0%) and 8 (10.4%) correctly identified the diagnostic criteria for hypertension and diabetes, respectively. Calcium chain blockers only were the most prescribed medication for treatment of hypertension across all stages of hypertension while metformin (glucophage) was stated as the preferred medication prescribed for controlling blood glucose levels among the respondents. Only 32.5% of the respondents stated that they have a means in place in their facilities to ensure that hypertension and diabetes patients adhere to follow-on visit recommendations.

CONCLUSION

A significant knowledge gap was identified in the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension and diabetes among the respondents due to unavailability of properly outlined management guidelines for these conditions for the different cadres of healthcare workers in Nigeria. There is a need for the development and wide distribution of guidelines highlighting cadre-specific roles for healthcare providers in hypertension and diabetes management and standard operating procedures based on such guidelines should be available at various points of care to ensure better treatment outcomes.

Prescribing Patterns of Antihypertensive Medications in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Hypertension is highly prevalent, but its pharmacological management has not been well evaluated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review examined the prescribing patterns of antihypertensives in LMICs. Data were extracted from a total of 26 studies spanning the time period 2000 to 2018. In 10 studies, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) were the most frequently prescribed medication for managing hypertension (range = 33% to 72%); in six studies, renin angiotensin system (RAS) blockers (range = 25% to 83%); in five studies, diuretics (range = 39% to 99%); and in five studies, β-blockers (BBs; range = 26% to 49%) were the most commonly prescribed antihypertensive medications. Prescribing sedatives and sublingual administration of captopril for controlling hypertension was also reported in 3 studies. Only 10 studies presented their findings in light of national or international guidelines. This review calls for further antihypertensive utilization and dispensation studies and a better understanding of clinician's perception and practice of hypertension management guidelines in LMICs.

Development and implementation of guidelines for the management of depression: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the development and implementation of clinical practice guidelines for the management of depression globally.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of existing guidelines for the management of depression in adults with major depressive or bipolar disorder. For each identified guideline, we assessed compliance with measures of guideline development quality (such as transparency in guideline development processes and funding, multidisciplinary author group composition, systematic review of comparative efficacy research) and implementation (such as quality indicators). We compared guidelines from low- and middle-income countries with those from high-income countries.

FINDINGS

We identified 82 national and 13 international clinical practice guidelines from 83 countries in 27 languages. Guideline development processes and funding sources were explicitly specified in a smaller proportion of guidelines from low- and middle-income countries (8/29; 28%) relative to high-income countries (35/58; 60%). Fewer guidelines (2/29; 7%) from low- and middle-income countries, relative to high-income countries (22/58; 38%), were authored by a multidisciplinary development group. A systematic review of comparative effectiveness was conducted in 31% (9/29) of low- and middle-income country guidelines versus 71% (41/58) of high-income country guidelines. Only 10% (3/29) of low- and middle-income country and 19% (11/58) of high-income country guidelines described plans to assess quality indicators or recommendation adherence.

CONCLUSION

Globally, guideline implementation is inadequately planned, reported and measured. Narrowing disparities in the development and implementation of guidelines in low- and middle-income countries is a priority. Future guidelines should present strategies to implement recommendations and measure feasibility, cost-effectiveness and impact on health outcomes.

The TDR MOOC training in implementation research: evaluation of feasibility and lessons learned in Rwanda

BACKGROUND

Hypertension (HTN) affects nearly 1 billion people globally and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), HTN represents an unmet health care gap that can be addressed by strengthening national health care systems. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recently funded the T4 Translation Research Capacity Building Initiative in Low Income Countries (TREIN) program to build capacity in dissemination and implementation (D&I) research in HTN in LMICs. The Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) at the World Health Organization (WHO) recently developed a massive open online course (MOOC) to train in D&I. Herein, we report on the use of the TDR WHO MOOC in D&I for the TREIN program in Rwanda, assessing feasibility of the MOOC and D&I competencies after MOOC training.

METHODS

Participants in one-group MOOC training completed pre- and post-training questionnaires to assess dissemination and implementation (D&I) competency outcomes and feasibility. D&I competencies were measured by use of a scale developed for a US-based training program, with the change in competency scores assessed by paired t test. Feasibility was measured by completion of homework and final project assignment and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Of the 92 trainees enrolled, 35 (38%) completed all MOOC components. D&I competency scores showed strong evidence of improvements from pre- to post-test. The full-scale average score improved by an average of 1.09 points, representing an effect size of 1.25 (CI 0.48-2.00); all four subscales also showed strong evidence of improvements. Trainees reported challenges to MOOC course completion that included technological issues (i.e., limited internet access) and competing demands (i.e., work, family).

CONCLUSIONS

In the context of LMIC training, the MOOC course was feasible and course completion showed improvement in D&I competency scores. While the program was designed with a focus on training for tropical diseases, there is potential for scalability to a wider audience of health care researchers, workers, administrators, and policymakers in LMIC interested in D&I research in non-communicable diseases.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2020 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports on the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2020 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, metrics to assess and monitor healthy diets, an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, a focus on the global burden of cardiovascular disease, and further evidence-based approaches to changing behaviors, implementation strategies, and implications of the American Heart Association's 2020 Impact Goals.

RESULTS

Each of the 26 chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, healthcare administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Healthy lifestyle index and its association with hypertension among community adults in Sri Lanka: A cross-sectional study

Objectives

To investigate the association between a healthy lifestyle index (HLI) (i.e., a composite score comprising multiple lifestyle factors) and hypertension among community adults living in Sri Lanka.

Methods

The present study used baseline information of a cluster randomized controlled trial among 456 adults aged 27–65 years in a semi-urban community in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The HLI was constructed by summing a number of low-risk lifestyle factors: low body mass index, sufficient physical activity, non-smoking, low alcohol consumption, and sufficient fruit and vegetable consumption. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, or the use of antihypertensive medication. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the association between the HLI (low: 0–2; middle: 3; high: 4–5) and hypertension.

Results

A total of 178 (39%) participants were hypertensive. Compared with the low HLI group, multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of hypertension were 0.72 (0.44–1.19) and 0.28 (0.15–0.54) for the middle and high HLI groups, respectively (p-trend <0.001).

Conclusions

The present study provides essential evidence on an inverse association between adherence to healthy lifestyles and hypertension.

Immigration Emergency in Italy: The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Blood Pressure Levels and Control

INTRODUCTION

Nowadays there are more than 5 millions of immigrants (8.3% of general adult population) in Italy.

AIM

To evaluate the potential impact of immigration and the possession of a permanent residence on blood pressure (BP) levels and control in a low income population of immigrants from different countries.

METHODS

We evaluated clinical characteristics and social status of adult individuals with known diagnosis of hypertension afferent to the Poliambulatorio della Caritas Diocesana in Rome, Italy, between 2010-2016. Subjects were stratified according to their macro-areas of origin (Europe, Asia, Africa, South-America), housing (with or without house), and immigration status (presence or absence of residence permit). BP levels were measured in three consecutive visits according to recommendations from current European Guidelines.

RESULTS

From an overall population sample of 9827 adult individuals, we initially identified 994 patients with a diagnosis of hypertension (10.1%), among whom 536 (5.4%) had valid BP data. Among these, 50.6% came from Europe, 21.6% from Africa, 24.1% from Asia, and 3.7% from South-America. They were predominantly male (54.7%), middle aged (42.8 ± 12.1 years at arrival and 51.6 ± 10.6 years at first visit) and untreated (72.8%) individuals with baseline systolic/diastolic BP levels of 156.9 ± 22.2/97.3 ± 12.4 mmHg). BP levels remained higher in homeless than in housed people at both visit 2 (150.0 ± 21.8/92.6 ± 12.9 mmHg vs. 142.9 ± 19.3/89.9 ± 11.6 mmHg; P < 0.001) and visit 3 (147.9 ± 22.2/91.7 ± 12.5 mmHg vs. 141.8 ± 19.4/89.2 ± 12.0 mmHg; P = 0.013). We also observed reductions of both systolic and diastolic BP levels compared to baseline values in immigrants stratified according to residence permit, although without relevant differences among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Beyond conventional risk factors, socio-economic issues, including lack of residence permit or habitation, may affect BP levels and control in frail populations of immigrants, which have been marginally considered before.

Modernizing the World Health Organization List of Essential Medicines for Preventing and Controlling Cardiovascular Diseases

The World Health Organization (WHO) Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) is a key tool for improving global access to medicines for all conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The WHO EML is used by member states to determine their national essential medicine lists and policies and to guide procurement of medicines in the public sector. Here, we describe our efforts to modernize the EML for global CVD prevention and control. We review the recent history of applications to add, delete, and change indications for CVD medicines, with the aim of aligning the list with contemporary clinical practice guidelines. We have identified 4 issues that affect decisions for the EML and may strengthen future applications: 1) cost and cost-effectiveness; 2) presence in clinical practice guidelines; 3) feedback loops; and 4) community engagement. We share our lessons to stimulate others in the global CVD community to embark on similar efforts.

Global Updates on Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Trends and Attribution of Traditional Risk Factors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The last 2-3 decades have witnessed a decline in age-standardized cardiovascular mortality rates in high-income regions, whereas this has only slightly decreased or even increased in most of the low- and middle-income countries. A systematic comparison of global CVD mortality by regions attributable to various modifiable risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, poor diet, and physical inactivity is not available.

RECENT FINDINGS

We present a summary of time trends and heterogeneity in the distribution of global CVD mortality and the attribution of risk factors between 1990 and 2017 using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 study. Globally, an estimated ~ 17.8 million (233.1 per 100,000) people died of CVD in 2017. The rate of CVD death was decreased in high-income countries (1990: 271.8 (95% UI (uncertainty interval), 270.9-273.5); 2017: 128.5 (95% UI, 126.4-130.7) per 100,000)) whereas it remained the same in lower- and middle-income countries (1990: 368.2 (95% UI, 335.6-383.3); 2017: 316.9 (95% UI, 307.0-325.5) per 100,000). Among the various traditional risk factors, high systolic blood pressure, unhealthy diet, high fasting plasma glucose, and high low-density lipoprotein levels were attributed to most of the CVD death and disability-adjusted life year lost. We also observed gender variations in tobacco and increased alcohol consumption. In addition to the traditional risk factors, poor air quality is associated with increased CVD burden in developing countries. Surveillance, country-specific guidelines, evidence-based policies, reinforcement of multisectoral health systems, and innovative solutions are urgently needed in resource-challenged settings to curb CVD risk factors and overall burden.

Factors Associated With High-Quality Guidelines for the Pharmacologic Management of Chronic Diseases in Primary Care: A Systematic Review

IMPORTANCE

As the rate of publication of new and sometimes conflicting medical research increases, clinicians rely heavily on clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to inform practice. However, CPGs are of widely variable quality, and there are no existing objective measures to rate the quality of CPGs.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically assess 421 CPGs for the management of common noncommunicable diseases in primary care using the validated Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Instrument, version II (AGREE-II) tool and elucidate the factors associated with quality of CPGs.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and 12 websites for CPGs were searched for CPGs for the management of common noncommunicable diseases in primary care published between January 1, 2011, and August 30, 2017. The assessment of the quality of CPGs was performed by 3 appraisers using the 6 domains of the AGREE-II instrument. A multiple logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with quality of CPGs.

FINDINGS

Of the 421 CPGs reviewed, 23.5% (99) were classified as high quality. Among included guidelines, clarity of presentation (70%) and scope and purpose (61%) had the highest median AGREE-II scores. The domains with the lowest median scores were applicability (22%) and rigor of development (33%). Factors associated with high-quality CPGs included having more than 20 authors (odds ratio, 9.08; 95% CI, 3.35-24.62), development at governmental institutions (odds ratio, 10.38; 95% CI, 2.72-39.60), and reporting funding (odds ratio, 10.34; 95% CI, 4.77-22.39). Year of publication, region, guideline version, and scope were not associated with quality among included CPGs.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Primary care professionals and policymakers should be aware that CPGs in primary care are of widely variable quality, with less than 25% of included CPGs rated as high quality. High-quality CPGs were associated with a higher number of authors, governmental institutions, and the report of funding. Region of origin was not associated with quality of CPGs, which suggests that the improvement of the quality of CPGs should be an international concern.

Motivators and Deterrents to Diet Change in Low Socio-Economic Pakistani Patients With Cardiovascular Disease

This study explores factors that affect the people of low socioeconomic status regarding food choices after diagnosis with cardiovascular disease. Qualitative approach was used to identify the important factors associated with dietary changes as a result of their disease. Twenty-four participants were interviewed from two cardiac facilities in Karachi, the largest metropolitan city of Pakistan. Data were analyzed to identify the themes using the interpretative description approach. While most participants understood the need for dietary changes, few were able to follow recommended diets. Their food choices were primarily influenced by financial constraints as well as cultural, familial, and religious values and practices. The challenge for health care providers lies in understanding the economical, sociocultural, and religious factors that influence behavioral changes which, in turn, affect dietary choices. It is apparent that cardiovascular risk and disease outcomes for the people of low socioeconomic status are likely to escalate. Thus, it is necessary to address the sociocultural, religious, and behavioral factors affecting dietary choices. Achieving this imperative requires an intersectorial, multilevel intervention for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in people of low socioeconomic status.