Trends in Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Cardiovascular Health Among US Adults From 1999-2012

Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Primary and Secondary Prevention in Latino Subgroups

BACKGROUND

Studies assessing equity in the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) for Latinos living in the USA collectively yield mixed results. Latino persons are diverse in many ways that may influence cardiovascular health. The intersection of Latino nativity and ASCVD prevention is understudied.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether disparities in ASCVD screening, detection, and prescribing differ for US Latinos by country of birth.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort design utilizing 2014-2020 electronic health record data from a network of 320 community health centers across 12 states. Analyses occurred October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023.

PARTICIPANTS

Non-Hispanic White and Latino adults age 20-75 years, born in Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and the USA.

EXPOSURES

Ethnicity and country of birth.

MAIN MEASURES

Outcome measures included prevalence of statin eligibility, of having insufficient data to establish eligibility, odds of having a documented statin prescription, and rates of statin prescriptions and refills. We used covariate-adjusted logistic and generalized estimating equations logistic and negative binomial regressions to generate absolute and relative measures.

KEY RESULTS

Among 108,672 adults, 23% (n = 25,422) were statin eligible for primary or secondary prevention of ASCVD using American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines. Latinos, born in and outside the USA were more likely eligible than Non-Hispanic White patients were (US-born Latino OR = 1.55 (95% CI = 1.37-1.75); non-US-born Latino OR = 1.63 (95% CI = 1.34-1.98)). The eligibility criteria that was met differed by ethnicity and nativity. Latinos overall were less likely missing data to establish eligibility and differences were again observed by specific non-US country of origin. Among those eligible, we observed no statistical difference in statin prescribing between US-born Latinos and non-Hispanic White persons; however, disparities varied by specific non-US country of origin.

CONCLUSION

Efforts to improve Latino health in the USA will require approaches for preventing and reversing cardiovascular risk factors, and statin initiation that are Latino subgroup specific.

Racial and ethnic differences in plasma biomarker eligibility for a preclinical Alzheimer's disease trial

INTRODUCTION

In trials of amyloid-lowering drugs for Alzheimer's disease (AD), differential eligibility may contribute to under-inclusion of racial and ethnic underrepresented groups. We examined plasma amyloid beta 42/40 and positron emission tomography (PET) amyloid eligibility for the ongoing AHEAD Study preclinical AD program (NCT04468659).

METHODS

Univariate logistic regression models were used to examine group differences in plasma and PET amyloid screening eligibility.

RESULTS

Of 4905 participants screened at time of analysis, 1724 were plasma eligible to continue in screening: 13.3% Hispanic Black, 24.7% Hispanic White, 20.8% non-Hispanic (NH) Asian, 24.7% NH Black, and 38.9% NH White. Plasma eligibility differed across groups in models controlling for covariates (odds ratio from 1.9 to 4.0 compared to the NH White reference group, P < 0.001). Among plasma eligible participants, PET eligibility did not differ by group.

DISCUSSION

These results suggest that prevalence of brain amyloid pathology differed, but that eligibility based on plasma was equally effective across racial and ethnic group members.

HIGHLIGHTS

Plasma amyloid eligibility is lower in underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. In plasma eligible adults, positron emission tomography eligibility rates are similar across race and ethnicity. Plasma biomarker tests may be similarly effective across racial and ethnic groups.

Association of total and free testosterone with cardiovascular disease in a nationally representative sample of white, black, and Mexican American men

Associations of total testosterone (T) and calculated free T with cardiovascular disease (CVD) remain poorly understood. Particularly how these associations vary according to race and ethnicity in a nationally representative sample of men. Data included 7058 men (≥20 years) from NHANES. CVD was defined as any reported diagnosis of heart failure (HF), coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke. Total T (ng/mL) was obtained among males who participated in the morning examination. Weighted multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were conducted. We found associations of low T (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.17-2.11), low calculated free T (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.10-2.17), total T (Q1 vs Q5), and calculated free T (Q1 vs Q5) with CVD after adjusting for estradiol and SHBG. In disease specific analysis, low T increased prevalence of MI (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.08-2.75) and HF (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.08-2.82), but a continuous increment of total T reduced the prevalence of CAD. Similar inverse associations were identified among White and Mexican Americans, but not Blacks (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.49-1.76). Low levels of T and calculated free T were associated with an increased prevalence of overall CVD and among White and Mexican Americans. Associations remained in the same direction with specific CVD outcomes in the overall population.

Trends in Income Inequities in Cardiovascular Health Among US Adults, 1988-2018

BACKGROUND

Mean cardiovascular health has improved over the past several decades in the United States, but it is unclear whether the benefit is shared equitably. This study examined 30-year trends in cardiovascular health using a suite of income equity metrics to provide a comprehensive picture of cardiovascular income equity.

METHODS

The study evaluated data from the 1988-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Survey groupings were stratified by poverty-to-income ratio (PIR) category, and the mean predicted 10-year risk of a major cardiovascular event or death based on the pooled cohort equations (PCE) was calculated (10-year PCE risk). Equity metrics including the relative and absolute concentration indices and the achievement index-metrics that assess both the prevalence and the distribution of a health measure across different socioeconomic categories-were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 26 633 participants aged 40 to 75 years were included (mean age, 53.0-55.5 years; women, 51.9%-53.0%). From 1988-1994 to 2015-2018, the mean 10-year PCE risk improved from 7.8% to 6.4% (P<0.05). The improvement was limited to the 2 highest income categories (10-year PCE risk for PIR 5: 7.7%-5.1%, P<0.05; PIR 3-4.99: 7.6%-6.1%, P<0.05). The 10-year PCE risk for the lowest income category (PIR <1) did not significantly change (8.1%-8.7%). In 1988-1994, the 10-year PCE risk for PIR <1 was 6% higher than PIR 5; by 2015-2018, this relative inequity increased to 70% (P<0.05). When using metrics that account for all income categories, the achievement index improved (8.0%-7.1%, P<0.05); however, the achievement index was consistently higher than the mean 10-year PCE risk, indicating the poor persistently had a greater share of adverse health.

CONCLUSIONS

In this serial cross-sectional survey of US adults spanning 30 years, the population's mean 10-year PCE risk improved, but the improvement was not felt equally across the income spectrum.

Digital Health Interventions for Hypertension Management in US Populations Experiencing Health Disparities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Importance

Hypertension remains a leading factor associated with cardiovascular disease, and demographic and socioeconomic disparities in blood pressure (BP) control persist. While advances in digital health technologies have increased individuals' access to care for hypertension, few studies have analyzed the use of digital health interventions in vulnerable populations.

Objective

To assess the association between digital health interventions and changes in BP and to characterize tailored strategies for populations experiencing health disparities.

Data Sources

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a systematic search identified studies evaluating digital health interventions for BP management in the Cochrane Library, Ovid Embase, Google Scholar, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception until October 30, 2023.

Study Selection

Included studies were randomized clinical trials or cohort studies that investigated digital health interventions for managing hypertension in adults; presented change in systolic BP (SBP) or baseline and follow-up SBP levels; and emphasized social determinants of health and/or health disparities, including a focus on marginalized populations that have historically been underserved or digital health interventions that were culturally or linguistically tailored to a population with health disparities. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two reviewers extracted and verified data. Mean differences in BP between treatment and control groups were analyzed using a random-effects model.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcomes included mean differences (95% CIs) in SBP and diastolic BP (DBP) from baseline to 6 and 12 months of follow-up between digital health intervention and control groups. Shorter- and longer-term follow-up durations were also assessed, and sensitivity analyses accounted for baseline BP levels.

Results

A total of 28 studies (representing 8257 participants) were included (overall mean participant age, 57.4 years [range, 46-71 years]; 4962 [60.1%], female). Most studies examined multicomponent digital health interventions incorporating remote BP monitoring (18 [64.3%]), community health workers or skilled nurses (13 [46.4%]), and/or cultural tailoring (21 [75.0%]). Sociodemographic characteristics were similar between intervention and control groups. Between the intervention and control groups, there were statistically significant mean differences in SBP at 6 months (-4.24 mm Hg; 95% CI, -7.33 to -1.14 mm Hg; P = .01) and SBP changes at 12 months (-4.30 mm Hg; 95% CI, -8.38 to -0.23 mm Hg; P = .04). Few studies (4 [14.3%]) reported BP changes and hypertension control beyond 1 year.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of digital health interventions for hypertension management in populations experiencing health disparities, BP reductions were greater in the intervention groups compared with the standard care groups. The findings suggest that tailored initiatives that leverage digital health may have the potential to advance equity in hypertension outcomes.

Do friends get under the skin?: Everyday social encounters and cardiovascular functioning among Black and White adults in the United States

OBJECTIVE

Studies have shown that contact with friends enhances emotional health, but little is known about whether friends influence cardiovascular health. This study investigated (a) whether encounters with friends and the quality of these encounters were associated with cardiovascular reactivity in everyday life and (b) whether these associations varied by race.

METHOD

Participants were from the Stress and Well-being in Everyday Life Study which included Black (n = 76; aged = 34-76) and White (n = 87, aged = 34-91) adults residing in the United States. Participants provided background and social network information in a baseline interview, followed by a 4-day ecological momentary assessment in which they reported social encounters every 3 hr. Concurrently, participants wore an electrocardiogram monitor which collected physiological data in real time. To assess cardiovascular reactivity, heart rate variability (HRV) was analyzed.

RESULTS

Multilevel models revealed that at times when individuals encountered friends (particularly positive encounters), they exhibited a momentary reduction in HRV (within-person association). But those with more friend encounters during the study period (particularly positive encounters) had higher HRV than those with fewer friend encounters during the study period (between-person association). These links were observed only among Black adults, but not among White adults.

CONCLUSIONS

This study contributes to the conceptual model of social integration and enriches the literature on racial disparities in cardiovascular health from a social perspective. Findings highlight the implications of engagement with friends for momentary cardiovascular reactivity and suggest that friends may be more salient for Black adults' cardiovascular health. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

A Relationship-Based Resilience Program for Promotores: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Waitlist Trial

BACKGROUND

Community service providers (CSPs) play an integral role in the health care of low-income Hispanic or Latinx (HL) communities. CSPs have high-stress frontline jobs and share the high-risk demographics of their communities. Relational savoring (RS) has been associated with lower cardiovascular reactivity and psychosocial benefits, with particular promise among HL participants. In this study, we aim to identify RS's potential in promoting CSPs' cardiometabolic health and, in so doing, having broader impacts on the community they serve.

OBJECTIVE

This randomized controlled waitlist study aims to examine the effect of an RS intervention on (1) CSPs' cardiometabolic health (cardiometabolic risk factors and outcomes) and (2) CSPs' threats to leaving the workforce.

METHODS

We will recruit a sample of 80 CSPs from community health agencies serving low-income HL populations. Participating CSPs will be randomized into an experimental or a waitlist control. Participants will complete 1 or 2 baseline assessment batteries (before the intervention), depending on the assigned group, and then complete 2 more assessment batteries following the 4-week RS intervention (after the intervention and at a 3-mo follow-up). The RS intervention consists of guided reflections on positive moments of connection with others. Electrocardiogram data will be obtained from a wearable device (Polar Verity Sense or Movisens) to measure heart rate variability. The primary outcome is cardiometabolic health, consisting of cardiometabolic risk (obtained from heart rate variability) and cardiometabolic health behaviors. The secondary outcomes include CSPs' threats to leaving the workforce (assessed via psychological well-being), intervention acceptability, and CSPs' delivery of cardiometabolic health programming to the community (exploratory). Analyses of covariance will be used to examine the effects of RS on cardiometabolic health and on CSPs' threats to leaving the workforce, comparing outcomes at baseline, postintervention, and at follow-up across participants in the experimental versus waitlist group.

RESULTS

The study has been approved by the University of California, Irvine, Institutional Review Board and is currently in the data collection phase. By May 2023, 37 HL CSPs have been recruited: 34 have completed the baseline assessment, 28 have completed the 4 intervention sessions, 27 have completed the posttreatment assessment, and 10 have completed all assessments (including the 3-mo follow-up).

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide valuable information on the potential of RS to support cardiometabolic health in HL CSPs and, indirectly, in the communities they serve.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05560893; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05560893.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/51427.

Racial Disparities in Cardiovascular Health Among the Acute Coronary Syndrome Population

The relative distribution of proportions of cardiovascular health (CVH) categories within racial groups has been examined. However, little scientific evidence exists on the gap trend in racial/ethnic disparities in mean CVH score among non-Hispanic (NH) Whites and Blacks. This study examined the trend(s) in the gap(s) in predicted CVH scores between NH Whites and Blacks over 10 years. In a cross-sectional analytical study, 10 years of Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data from 2008 to 2018 were pooled, utilizing multivariate Poisson's regression of CVH metrics on race, while controlling for relevant covariates. The interactions of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with CVH metrics, and other key variables such as trends and grouped Charlson Comorbidity Index allowed for variations in the effect of these variables on the subgroups. The mean gap in CVH scores was on average 0.15 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.137 to 0.170], with Blacks consistently having reduced odds of having ideal CVH until 2014. The overall impact of having an ACS decreased acquired CVH scores by 24.1% [95% CI -0.275 to 0.207], and was equal for both racial subgroups (P < 0.05). The Affordable Care Act (ACA)-trend was positive, increasing the likelihood of improved CVH in the sample (P < 0.05), deflecting a downward trend in acquired CVH scores for both races, as the gap narrowed into more recent years. The CVH gap was stabilized by the ACA, but never really converged, suggesting that efforts to reduce existing disparities between Blacks and NH Whites in the United States would require government policies to look beyond mere "access" and/or "affordability" to health care.

Heart Disease Knowledge and Awareness in African American and Hispanic Women

OBJECTIVES

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among US women. Minority women have higher rates of CHD and are more likely to experience adverse outcomes. Because of racial disparities in CHD outcomes, the purpose of this study was to assess CHD knowledge and awareness in African American and Hispanic women.

METHODS

Using a survey research design, a convenience sample of African American and Hispanic women was surveyed in their local communities. CHD knowledge, awareness, and demographic data were collected using an online survey. The survey was administered in English and Spanish using an iPad. CHD knowledge was assessed using a 7-item survey based on the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 brochure. CHD awareness was assessed using a 7-item survey adapted from the American Heart Association's Survey of Women's Cardiovascular Disease Awareness. CHD knowledge was scored on a scale of 0 to 7, and awareness was assessed based on responses to each question. The data analysis consisted of cross-tabulations and multivariable repeated measures analysis. We assessed differences in CHD knowledge and awareness based on race/ethnicity. We hypothesized that there would be statistically significant differences in CHD knowledge and awareness based on specific demographic factors (eg, age, income, education, health literacy).

RESULTS

A total of 100 African American (n=50) and Hispanic (n = 50) women participated in the study. Results revealed that CHD knowledge and awareness were limited for both groups. Seventy-three percent of participants (African American 66%; Hispanic 80%) did not know that CHD is the leading cause of death in women and 75% (African American 60%; Hispanic 90%) were moderately or not at all informed about CHD.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the need for more research on innovative strategies to improve CHD knowledge and awareness, particularly in African American and Hispanic women who are at highest risk, thereby addressing racial/ethnic and gender disparities in CHD morbidity and mortality.

Social and economic factors and black-white disparities in cardiovascular health: A decomposition analysis

Background

Cardiovascular health (CVH) in Black adults, and particularly in Black women, has lagged behind White adults for decades and contributes to higher mortality rates for Black adults. We quantified the contribution of five social and economic factors to observed racial disparities in CVH by gender.

Methods

We analyzed data from N = 8,019 adults aged ≥20 years free of cardiovascular disease assessed in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011-2018. Social and economic factors included self-reported education, income, employment, food security, and marital status. CVH was measured using eight behavioral and clinical indicators. We utilized Kitagawa-Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition to quantify gendered racial differences in CVH accounted for by these factors.

Results

Black women (mean CVH = 79.3) had a lower age-adjusted CVH score compared to White women (mean CVH = 82.3) (mean difference [MD] = -3.01; 95% CI: -5.18, -0.84). Social and economic factors accounted for a 3.26-point disadvantage (95% CI: -4.12, -2.40) and a 0.25-point CVH score advantage due to factors not accounted for in the model. In women, income had the largest coefficient associated with CVH score (b = -1.48; 95% CI: -2.04, -0.92). Among men, social and economic factors accounted for a 2.27-point disadvantage (95% CI: -2.97, -1.56) with educational attainment being the largest coefficient associated with CVH score (b = -1.55; 95% CI: -2.03, -1.06). However, the disadvantage in men was offset by a 1.99 CVH score advantage that was not accounted for by factors in the model resulting in no racial difference in age-adjusted CVH score (MD = -0.28; 95% CI: -3.78, 3.22).

Conclusions

Racial differences in social and economic factors may contribute a large portion to the observed disparity in CVH between U.S. Black and White women.

Associations of healthful and unhealthful plant-based diets with plasma markers of cardiometabolic risk

PURPOSE

Plant-based diets, particularly when rich in healthy plant foods, have been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, the impact of plant-based diets that distinguish between healthy and unhealthy plant foods on cardiometabolic biomarkers remains unclear.

METHODS

Dietary information was collected by two 24-h recalls among 34,785 adults from a nationwide cross-sectional study. Plasma levels of insulin, C-peptide, glucose, C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC) count, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured. Linear regression was used to evaluate the percentage difference in plasma marker concentrations by three plant-based diet indices, namely the overall plant-based diet index (PDI), the healthful PDI (hPDI), and the unhealthful PDI (uPDI).

RESULTS

Greater hPDI-adherence scores (comparing extreme quartiles) were associated with lower levels of insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), TG/HDL-C ratio, CRP, WBC count, and TG, and higher levels of HDL-C, with the percentage differences of  - 14.55,  - 15.72,  - 11.57,  - 14.95,  - 5.26,  - 7.10, and 5.01, respectively (all Ptrend ≤ 0.001). Conversely, uPDI was associated with higher levels of insulin, C-peptide, HOMA-IR, TG/HDL-C ratio, CRP, WBC count, and TG, but lower HDL-C, with the percentage differences of 13.71, 14.00, 14.10, 10.43, 3.32, 8.00, and  - 4.98 (all Ptrend ≤ 0.001), respectively. Overall PDI was only associated with lower levels of CRP and WBC count (all Ptrend ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that hPDI may have positive, whereas uPDI may have negative impacts on multiple cardiometabolic risk markers, and underscore the need to consider the quality of plant foods in future PDI studies.

Effects of statin therapies on individuals taking antipsychotics: a systematic review

Patients taking antipsychotics to treat severe mental illness may develop adverse effects such as dyslipidaemia. We aimed to provide an update to a previous systematic review showing statin therapy lowering lipid levels in individuals taking antipsychotics, while further identifying any safety concerns or changes in BMI or blood pressure. In August 2022, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies on the effects of statins on lipid profile measures for individuals with severe mental illness taking first- or second-generation antipsychotic medications. Data extraction was performed in a masked duplicate fashion. On the basis of article type, the risk of bias in each study was assessed using ROBINS-I or RoB-2. The GRADE criteria were used for certainty assessment. Our initial search returned 396 articles, of which 6 were included in our analysis. Five of them (83.3%) identified a significant change between baseline and posttreatment lipids. Of the articles recording blood pressure, BMI or weight and significant safety concerns, no significant changes were found. The certainty assessment for this systematic review was rated as moderate. A meta-analysis was not performed. We found that studies continue to demonstrate the use of statin therapy in dyslipidaemia prevention and treatment and, in relation, decrease cardiovascular disease risk through significantly reduced LDL-C levels. Patients at risk of developing dyslipidaemias secondary to antipsychotic treatment should be considered for lipid-lowering therapy with a statin. The limited number of studies included and their heterogeneity demonstrate areas for improvement for future research.

Cardiovascular Risk Factor Disparities in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer Compared With the General Population

Background

It is unknown whether a history of childhood cancer modifies the established disparities in cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) observed in the general population.

Objectives

We sought to determine if disparities in CVRFs by race/ethnicity are similar among childhood cancer survivors compared with the general population.

Methods

The Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) is a retrospective cohort with a longitudinal follow-up of 24,084 5-year survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 1999. Multivariable piecewise exponential regression estimated incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, and ≥2 CVRFs by race/ethnicity. The CCSS sibling cohort and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cohort were used to compare the sociodemographic-adjusted IRRs for same-race/same-ethnicity disparities.

Results

Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) (n = 1,092) and Hispanic (n = 1,405) survivors compared with non-Hispanic White (NHW) (n = 13,960) survivors reported a higher cumulative incidence of diabetes (8.4%, 9.7%, and 5.1%, respectively); obesity (47.2%, 48.9%, and 30.2%, respectively); multiple CVRFs (17.7%, 16.6%, and 12.3%, respectively); and, for NHB survivors, hypertension (19.5%, 13.6%, and 14.3%, respectively) by 40 years of age (P < 0.001). Controlling for sociodemographic and treatment factors compared with NHW survivors, IRRs for NHB were increased for hypertension (IRR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1-1.8), obesity (IRR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.4-2.1), and multiple CVRFs (IRR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2-2.1). IRRs for Hispanic survivors were increased for diabetes (IRR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2-2.6) and obesity (IRR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.2-1.7). The pattern of IRRs for CVRF differences was similar among CCSS sibling and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cohorts.

Conclusions

The higher burden of CVRFs among NHB and Hispanic survivors compared with NHW survivors was similar to the general population. The promotion of cardiovascular health equity is critical in this high-risk population.

Estimation of life's essential 8 score with incomplete data of individual metrics

Background

The American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 (LE8) is an updated construct of cardiovascular health (CVH), including blood pressure, lipids, glucose, body mass index, nicotine exposure, diet, physical activity, and sleep health. It is challenging to simultaneously measure all eight metrics at multiple time points in most research and clinical settings, hindering the use of LE8 to assess individuals' overall CVH trajectories over time.

Materials and methods

We obtained data from 5,588 participants in the Nurses' Health Studies (NHS, NHSII) and Health Professionaĺs Follow-up Study (HPFS), and 27,194 participants in the 2005-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with all eight metrics available. Individuals' overall cardiovascular health (CVH) was determined by LE8 score (0-100). CVH-related factors that are routinely collected in many settings (i.e., demographics, BMI, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes) were included as predictors in the base models of LE8 score, and subsequent models further included less frequently measured factors (i.e., physical activity, diet, blood pressure, and sleep health). Gradient boosting decision trees were trained with hyper-parameters tuned by cross-validations.

Results

The base models trained using NHS, NHSII, and HPFS had validated root mean squared errors (RMSEs) of 8.06 (internal) and 16.72 (external). Models with additional predictors further improved performance. Consistent results were observed in models trained using NHANES. The predicted CVH scores can generate consistent effect estimates in associational studies as the observed CVH scores.

Conclusions

CVH-related factors routinely measured in many settings can be used to accurately estimate individuals' overall CVH when LE8 metrics are incomplete.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Access and Racial Disparities in Food Insecurity

Importance

Racially minoritized people experience disproportionately high rates of food insecurity. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) reduces food insecurity.

Objective

To evaluate SNAP access with regard to racial disparities in food insecurity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used data from the 2018 Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP). On the basis of random sampling strategies, 44 870 households were eligible for the SIPP, and 26 215 (58.4%) participated. Sampling weights accounted for survey design and nonresponse. Data were analyzed from February 25 to December 12, 2022.

Exposures

This study examined disparities based on household racial composition (entirely Asian, entirely Black, entirely White, and multiple races or multirace based on SIPP categories).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Food insecurity during the prior year was measured using the validated 6-item US Department of Agriculture Food Security Survey Module. SNAP participation during the prior year was classified based on whether anyone in the household received SNAP benefits. Modified Poisson regression tested hypothesized disparities in food insecurity.

Results

A total of 4974 households that were eligible for SNAP (income ≤130% of the poverty threshold) were included in this study. A total of 218 households (5%) were entirely Asian, 1014 (22%) were entirely Black, 3313 (65%) were entirely White, and 429 (8%) were multiracial or of other racial groups. Adjusting for household characteristics, households that were entirely Black (prevalence rate [PR], 1.18; 95% CI, 1.04-1.33) or multiracial (PR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.06-1.46) were more likely to be food insecure than entirely White households, but associations differed depending on SNAP participation. Among households that did not participate in SNAP, those that were entirely Black (PR, 1.52; 97.5% CI, 1.20-1.93) or multiracial (PR, 1.42; 97.5% CI, 1.04-1.94) were more likely to be food insecure than White households; however, among SNAP participants, Black households were less likely than White households to be food insecure (PR, 0.84; 97.5% CI, 0.71-0.99).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, racial disparities in food insecurity were found among low-income households that do not participate in SNAP but not among those that do, suggesting that access to SNAP should be improved. These results also highlight the need to examine the structural and systemic racism in food systems and in access to food assistance that may contribute to disparities.

Implementing Reporting Standards for Polygenic Risk Scores for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There is considerable interest in using polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for assessing risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). A barrier to the clinical use of PRSs is heterogeneity in how PRS studies are reported. In this review, we summarize approaches to establish a uniform reporting framework for PRSs for coronary heart disease (CHD), the most common form of ASCVD.

RECENT FINDINGS

Reporting standards for PRSs need to be contextualized for disease specific applications. In addition to metrics of predictive performance, reporting standards for PRSs for CHD should include how cases/control were ascertained, degree of adjustment for conventional CHD risk factors, portability to diverse genetic ancestry groups and admixed individuals, and quality control measures for clinical deployment. Such a framework will enable PRSs to be optimized and benchmarked for clinical use.

Achieving Equity in Hospital Performance Assessments Using Composite Race-Specific Measures of Risk-Standardized Readmission and Mortality Rates for Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

The contemporary measures of hospital performance for heart failure hospitalization and 30-day risk-standardized readmission rate (RSRR) and risk-standardized mortality rate (RSMR) are estimated using the same risk adjustment model and overall event rate for all patients. Thus, these measures are mainly driven by the care quality and outcomes for the majority racial and ethnic group, and may not adequately represent the hospital performance for patients of Black and other races.

METHODS

Fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries from January 2014 to December 2019 hospitalized with heart failure were identified. Hospital-level 30-day RSRR and RSMR were estimated using the traditional race-agnostic models and the race-specific approach. The composite race-specific performance metric was calculated as the average of the RSRR/RMSR measures derived separately for each race and ethnicity group. Correlation and concordance in hospital performance for all patients and patients of Black and other races were assessed using the composite race-specific and race-agnostic metrics.

RESULTS

The study included 1 903 232 patients (75.7% White [n=1 439 958]; 14.5% Black [n=276 684]; and 9.8% other races [n=186 590]) with heart failure from 1860 hospitals. There was a modest correlation between hospital-level 30-day performance metrics for patients of White versus Black race (Pearson correlation coefficient: RSRR=0.42; RSMR=0.26). Compared with the race-agnostic RSRR and RSMR, composite race-specific metrics for all patients demonstrated stronger correlation with RSRR (correlation coefficient: 0.60 versus 0.74) and RSMR (correlation coefficient: 0.44 versus 0.51) for Black patients. Concordance in hospital performance for all patients and patients of Black race was also higher with race-specific (versus race-agnostic) metrics (RSRR=64% versus 53% concordantly high-performing; 61% versus 51% concordantly low-performing). Race-specific RSRR and RSMR metrics (versus race-agnostic) led to reclassification in performance ranking of 35.8% and 39.2% of hospitals, respectively, with better 30-day and 1-year outcomes for patients of all race groups at hospitals reclassified as high-performing.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients hospitalized with heart failure, race-specific 30-day RSMR and RSRR are more equitable in representing hospital performance for patients of Black and other races.

Trends in ethnic disparities in clinical cardiovascular health among Chinese adults from 2016-2020

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Little is known about the long-term trends in ethnic differences in cardiovascular health (CVH) in China in recent years. This study aimed to investigate ethnic differences in CVH and identify long-term trends in China.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This survey was based on the physical examination data of Tacheng Prefecture in China from 2016 to 2020, and included 1,947,938 physical examination participants aged over 20 years for analysis. The American Heart Association (AHA) criteria were used to evaluate the clinical CVH of the subjects. The time trends from 2016 to 2020 were assessed using a weighted linear regression model stratified by ethnicity. The ethnic groups included Han, Kazakh, Hui, Mongolian, Uyghur, among others. The mean ideal clinical cardiovascular score was highest in Hui and lowest in Uyghur. The scores increased from 5.99 (5.95-6.03) to 6.11 (6.08-6.14) in Kazakh males and from 6.05 (5.99-6.11) to 6.11 (6.06-6.16) in Hui males among participants (P_{linear trend} < 0.001). The scores for the other groups declined significantly from 2016 to 2020(P_{linear trend} ＜ 0.05). In the sensitivity analysis, the trend remained unchanged after calculating the body mass index (BMI) cut-off for China.

CONCLUSION

Clinical CVH differences still exist among different ethnic groups, with a decline in CVH from 2016 to 2020 in all except Kazakh and Hui males. This may indicate a higher incidence and poorer prognosis of cardiovascular disease in the future and can provide guidelines for improving CVH.

Estimation of Life's Essential 8 Score with Incomplete Data of Individual Metrics

Background

The American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 (LE8) is an updated construct of cardiovascular health (CVH), including blood pressure, lipids, glucose, body mass index, nicotine exposure, diet, physical activity, and sleep health. It is challenging to simultaneously measure all eight metrics at multiple time points in most research and clinical settings, hindering the use of LE8 to assess individuals' overall CVH trajectories over time.

Methods and Results

We obtained data from 5,588 participants in the Nurses' Health Studies (NHS, NHSII) and Health Professional's Follow-up Study (HPFS), and 27,194 participants in the 2005-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with all eight metrics available. Individuals' overall cardiovascular health (CVH) was determined by LE8 score (0-100). CVH-related factors that are routinely collected in many settings (i.e., demographics, BMI, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes) were included as predictors in the base models of LE8 score, and subsequent models further included less frequently measured factors (i.e., physical activity, diet, blood pressure, and sleep health). Gradient boosting decision trees were trained with hyper-parameters tuned by cross-validations. The base models trained using NHS, NHSII, and HPFS had validated root mean squared errors (RMSEs) of 8.06 (internal) and 16.72 (external). Models with additional predictors further improved performance. Consistent results were observed in models trained using NHANES. The predicted CVH scores can generate consistent effect estimates in associational studies as the observed CVH scores.

Conclusions

CVH-related factors routinely measured in many settings can be used to accurately estimate individuals' overall CVH when LE8 metrics are incomplete.

Clinical Perspective

What Is New?: Life's Essential 8 (LE8) has great potential to assess and promote cardiovascular health (CVH) across life course, however, it is challenging to simultaneously collect all eight metrics at multiple time points in most research and clinical settings.We demonstrated that CVH-related factors routinely collected in many research and clinical settings can be used to accurately estimate individuals' overall CVH across time even when LE8 metrics are incomplete.What Are the Clinical Implications?: The approach introduced in this study provides a cost-effective and feasible way to estimate individuals' overall CVH.It can be used to track individuals' CVH trajectories in clinical settings.

The association between platelet reactivity and lipoprotein levels in Framingham Heart Study participants

BACKGROUND

Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for major adverse cardiovascular events, though the mechanisms linking triglycerides and platelet function with thrombosis, remain elusive. The aim of this study was to assess the association between platelet function and triglyceride levels.

METHODS

We included participants from the Framingham Heart Study Third Generation cohort, OMNI, and New Offspring Spouse cohort who attended the third examination cycle (2016-2019). Eligible participants were categorized into four triglyceride subgroups.

RESULTS

The study comprised a total of 1897 (55.53 %) participants with normal TG levels; 883 (25.85 %) participants with high-normal TGs; 378 (11.07 %) with borderline high TGs; and 258 (7.55 %) participants with hypertriglyceridemia. After adjusting for age, sex, alcohol consumption, aspirin, statin and P2Y₁₂ inhibitors, the levels of ADP-induced platelet aggregation were inversely associated with total cholesterol levels (P < 0.0001). Platelet disaggregation was associated with low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (P < 0.0001). Lastly, in a shear-stress chamber assay mimicking arterial flow velocities, TG levels in the normal-high group were associated with increased levels of collagen-dependent thrombogenicity (β = 24.16, SE = 6.65, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Triglyceride levels are associated with altered platelet activation and aggregation. Furthermore, increased platelet-driven thrombogenicity is directly associated with triglyceride levels after adjusting for medications and other covariates.

Measures of Food Inadequacy and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Black Individuals in the US From the Jackson Heart Study

Importance

Food insecurity disproportionately affects Black individuals in the US. Its association with coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure (HF), and stroke is unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the associations of economic food insecurity and proximity with unhealthy food options with risk of incident CHD, HF, and stroke and the role of diet quality and stress.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study was a time-to-event analysis of 3024 Black adult participants in the Jackson Heart Study (JHS) without prevalent cardiovascular disease (CVD) at visit 1 (2000-2004). Data analysis was conducted from September 1, 2020, to November 30, 2021.

Exposures

Economic food insecurity, defined as receiving food stamps or self-reported not enough money for groceries, and high frequency of unfavorable food stores (>2.5 unfavorable food stores [fast food restaurants, convenience stores] within 1 mile).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes were incident CVD including incident CHD, stroke, and HF with preserved ejection fraction and with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). During a median follow-up of 13.8 (IQR, 12.8-14.6) years, the associations of measures of food inadequacy with incident CVD (CHD, stroke, and HF) were assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Among the 3024 study participants, the mean (SD) age was 54 (12) years, 1987 (66%) were women, 630 (21%) were economically food insecure, and 50% (by definition) had more than 2.5 unfavorable food stores within 1 mile. In analyses adjusted for cardiovascular risk and socioeconomic factors, economic food insecurity was associated with higher risk of incident CHD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.76; 95% CI, 1.06-2.91) and incident HFrEF (HR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.16-3.70), but not stroke. These associations persisted after further adjustment for diet quality and perceived stress. In addition, economic food insecurity was associated with higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and renin concentrations. High frequency of unfavorable food stores was not associated with CHD, HF, or stroke.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that economic food insecurity, but not proximity to unhealthy food options, was associated with risk of incident CHD and HFrEF independent of socioeconomic factors, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, diet quality, perceived stress, and other health behaviors. Economic food insecurity was also associated with markers of inflammation and neurohormonal activation. Economic food insecurity may be a promising potential target for the prevention of CVD.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular health behaviors and risk factors: A new troubling normal that may be here to stay

In March 2020, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak was officially declared a global pandemic, leading to closure of public facilities, enforced social distancing and stay-at-home mandates to limit exposures and reduce transmission rates. While the severity of this "lockdown" period varied by country, the disruptions of the pandemic on multiple facets of life (e.g., daily activities, education, the workplace) as well as the social, economic, and healthcare systems impacts were unprecedented. These disruptions and impacts are having a profound negative effect on multiple facets of behavioral health and psychosocial wellbeing that are inextricably linked to cardiometabolic health and associated with adverse outcomes of COVID-19. For example, adoption of various cardiometabolic risk behavior behaviors observed during the pandemic contributed to irretractable trends in weight gain and poor mental health, raising concerns on the possible long-term consequences of the pandemic on cardiometabolic disease risk, and vulnerabilities to future viral pandemics. The purpose of this review is to summarize the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on cardiometabolic health risk behaviors, particularly related to poor diet quality, physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors, smoking, sleep patterns and mental health. Additional insights into how the pandemic has amplified cardiovascular risk behaviors, particularly in our most vulnerable populations, and the potential implications for the future if these modifiable risk behaviors do not become better controlled, are described.

Understanding the determinants of circadian health disparities and cardiovascular disease

Emerging research suggests that sleep contributes to racial disparities in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Racial/ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by poor cardiovascular outcomes including obesity, hypertension and diabetes. Although circadian rhythms affect sleep patterns, few studies have examined disparities in circadian health or the contribution of circadian disparities to CVD. In this paper, we provide an overview of the relation between circadian health and CVD in the context of health disparities. We discuss (1) the current knowledge on racial disparities in circadian health; (2) social and environmental determinants of circadian health disparities; (3) the cardiovascular consequences of circadian disparities; and (4) future opportunities to advance the field of circadian disparities. In brief, our findings demonstrated that among a small literature, racial minorities (mainly African American) were more likely to have a shorter circadian period, delayed phase shifts, and were more likely to be shift workers, which are associated with CVD risk factors. Given racial minorities are disproportionately affected by CVD and CVD risk factors, it is important to further understand circadian health as an intervention target and support more research among racial minorities to understand circadian health in these populations.

Impact of Race on Outcomes from Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Structural Heart Disease: A Prospective Registry from South Metropolitan Chicago

Background

Whether racial disparities in outcomes are present after catheter ablation for scar-related ventricular tachycardia (VT) is not known.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine whether racial differences exist in outcomes for patients undergoing VT ablation.

Methods

From March 2016 through April 2021, consecutive patients undergoing catheter ablation for scar-related VT at the University of Chicago were prospectively enrolled. The primary outcome was VT recurrence, with secondary outcome of mortality alone and composite endpoint of left ventricular assist device placement, heart transplant, or mortality.

Results

A total of 258 patients were analyzed: 58 (22%) self-identified as Black, and 113 (44%) had ischemic cardiomyopathy. Black patients had significantly higher rates of hypertension (HTN), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and VT storm at presentation. At 7 months, Black patients experienced higher rates of VT recurrence (P = .009). However, after multivariable adjustment, there were no observed differences in VT recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.65; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-2.97; P = .10), all-cause mortality (aHR 0.49; 95% CI 0.21-1.17; P = .11), or composite events (aHR 0.76; 95% CI 0.37-1.54; P = .44) between Black and non-Black patients.

Conclusion

In this diverse prospective registry of patients undergoing catheter ablation for scar-related VT, Black patients experienced higher rates of VT recurrence compared to non-Black patients. When adjusted for highly prevalent HTN, CKD, and VT storm, Black patients had comparable outcomes as non-Black patients.

Trends in the likelihood of receiving percutaneous coronary intervention in a low-volume hospital and disparities by sociodemographic communities

INTRODUCTION

Over the past two decades, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) capacity has increased while coronary artery disease has decreased, potentially lowering per-hospital PCI volumes, which is associated with less favorable patient outcomes. Trends in the likelihood of receiving PCI in a low-volume center have not been well-documented, and it is unknown whether certain socioeconomic factors are associated with a greater risk of PCI in a low-volume facility. Our study aims to determine the likelihood of being treated in a low-volume PCI center over time and if this likelihood differs by sociodemographic factors.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 374,066 hospitalized patients in California receiving PCI from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2018. Our primary outcome was the likelihood of PCI discharges at a low-volume hospital (<150 PCI/year), and secondary outcomes included whether this likelihood varied across different sociodemographic groups and across low-volume hospitals stratified by high or low ZIP code median income.

RESULTS

The proportion of PCI discharges from low-volume hospitals increased from 5.4% to 11.0% over the study period. Patients of all sociodemographic groups considered were more likely to visit low-volume hospitals over time (P<0.001). Latinx patients were more likely to receive PCI at a low-volume hospital compared with non-Latinx White in 2010 with a 166% higher gap in 2018 (unadjusted proportions). The gaps in relative risk (RR) between Black, Latinx and Asian patients versus non-Latinx white increased over time, whereas the gap between private versus public/no insurance, and high versus low income decreased (interaction P<0.001). In low-income ZIP codes, patients with Medicaid were less likely to visit low-volume hospitals than patients with private insurance in 2010; however, this gap reversed and increased by 500% in 2018. Patients with low income were more likely to receive PCI at low-volume hospitals relative to patients with high income in all study years.

CONCLUSIONS

The likelihood of receiving PCI at low-volume hospitals has increased across all race/ethnicity, insurance, and income groups over time; however, this increase has not occurred evenly across all sociodemographic groups.

Do diabetes phenotypes in US women differ by race/ethnicity? A population-based cluster analysis

Objective

US women exhibit racial disparities in the lifetime risk of diabetes and related outcomes. Identifying heterogeneity in clinical presentation may assist with reducing racial disparities in diabetes outcomes. We identified clinical phenotypes of diabetes and examined their racial and ethnic distribution in US women.

Research design and methods

We conducted cluster analysis based on five factors in US women with diagnosed diabetes assessed in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999-2018 (n = 825). Multinomial logistic regression analysis was performed to identify racial and ethnic differences in the distribution of phenotypes.

Results

We identified four distinct clinical phenotypes. Two phenotypes, mild age-related and severe insulin-deficient diabetes, each included approximately a third of women. Mild insulin-resistant and severe insulin-resistant diabetes phenotypes accounted for 19.9% and 13.7%, respectively. The distribution of clusters did not differ by race and ethnicity.

Conclusions

The prevalence of four clinically distinct diabetes phenotypes identified in US women did not differ by race and ethnicity.

Governance of Intersectoral Collaborations for Population Health and to Reduce Health Inequalities in High-Income Countries: A Complexity-Informed Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

A 'Health in All Policies' (HiAP) approach has been widely advocated as a way to involve multiple government sectors in addressing health inequalities, but implementation attempts have not always produced the expected results. Explaining how HiAP-style collaborations have been governed may offer insights into how to improve population health and reduce health inequalities.

METHODS

Theoretically focused systematic review. Synthesis of evidence from evaluative studies into a causal logic model.

RESULTS

Thirty-one publications based on 40 case studies from nine high-income countries were included. Intersectoral collaborations for population health and equity were multi-component and multi-dimensional with collaborative activity spanning policy, strategy, service design and service delivery. Governance of intersectoral collaboration included structural and relational components. Both internal and external legitimacy and credibility delivered collaborative power, which in turn enabled intersectoral collaboration. Internal legitimacy was driven by multiple structural elements and processes. Many of these were instrumental in developing (often-fragile) relational trust. Internal credibility was supported by multi-level collaborations that were adequately resourced and shared power. External legitimacy and credibility was created through meaningful community engagement, leadership that championed collaborations and the identification of 'win-win' strategies. External factors such as economic shocks and short political cycles reduced collaborative power.

CONCLUSION

This novel review, using systems thinking and causal loop representations, offers insights into how collaborations can generate internal and external legitimacy and credibility. This offers promise for future collaborative activity for population health and equity; it presents a clearer picture of what structural and relational components and dynamics collaborative partners can focus on when planning and implementing HiAP initiatives. The limits of the literature base, however, does not make it possible to identify if or how this might deliver improved population health or health equity.

Racial disparities and prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors, cardiometabolic risk factors, and cardiovascular health metrics among US adults: NHANES 2011-2018

This study estimated the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, cardiometabolic (CM) risk factors, and cardiovascular health metrics (CVHMs) among US adults and across race/ethnicity groups. The study comprised 8370 US adults aged ≥ 20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018, free of coronary heart disease/heart failure, angina/angina pectoris, heart attack, and stroke, who provided complete data for the outcome variables of interest. Age-adjusted prevalence of CVD and CM risk factors, and CVHMs were computed for all adults and across race/ethnicity groups. All analyses accounted for the complex, multi-stage survey sampling design of the NHANES. Hypertension (45.0%), obesity (40.0%), fasting plasma glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL or hypoglycemic medication (51.0%), ideal physical activity (59.2%) and ideal smoking status (56.9%) were most prevalent for the whole sample. Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic Blacks had elevated risk for some, but not all, CVD and CM risk factors compared to non-Hispanic Whites and non-Hispanic Asians. Reducing further health disparities and persisting differences among racial and ethnic groups is vital to achieving the American Heart Association vision of all people having ideal cardiovascular health, living healthier and longer.

Racial, ethnic, and language differences in screening measures for statin therapy following a major guideline change

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) disproportionally affects racial and ethnic minority populations. Statin prescribing guidelines changed in 2013 to improve ASCVD prevention. It is unknown whether risk screening for statin eligibility differed across race and ethnicity over this guideline change. We examine racial/ethnic/language differences in screening measure prevalence for period-specific statin consideration using a retrospective cohort design and linked electronic health records from 635 community health centers in 24 U.S. states. Adults 50+ years, without known ASCVD, and ≥ 1 visit in 2009-2013 and/or 2014-2018 were included, grouped as: Asian, Latino, Black, or White further distinguished by language preference. Outcomes included screening measure prevalence for statin consideration, 2009-2013: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), 2014-2018: pooled cohort equation (PCE) components age, sex, race, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, smoking status. Among patients seen both periods, change in period-specific measure prevalence was assessed. Adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors, compared to English-preferring White patients, all other groups were more likely to have LDL documented (2009-2013, n = 195,061) and all PCE components documented (2014-2018, n = 344,504). Among patients seen in both periods (n = 128,621), all groups had lower odds of PCE components versus LDL documented in the measures' respective period; English-preferring Black adults experienced a greater decline compared to English-preferring White adults (OR 0.81; 95% CI: 0.72-0.91). Racial/ethnic/language disparities in documented screening measures that guide statin therapy for ASCVD prevention were unaffected by a major guideline change advising this practice. It is important to understand whether the newer guidelines have altered disparate prescribing and morbidity/mortality for this disease.

A Healthful Plant-Based Diet Is Associated with Lower Odds of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

There is little evidence for the associations of the overall plant-based diet index (PDI), the healthful PDI (hPDI), and the unhealthful PDI (uPDI) with the odds of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We present a nationwide cross-sectional study among US adults aged 18 years or older. Diet was assessed by 24-h recalls. Overall PDI, hPDI, and uPDI were constructed based on 18 food groups. NAFLD was defined based on controlled attenuation parameter derived via transient elastography (TE) in the absence of other causes of chronic liver disease. Among 3900 participants with eligible TE examination, 1686 were diagnosed with NAFLD. The overall PDI was not associated with NAFLD prevalence (comparing extreme tertiles of PDI score OR = 1.03, 95% CI 0.76, 1.38, ptrend = 0.609). However, hPDI was inversely (OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.35, 0.72, ptrend < 0.001), while uPDI was positively associated with odds of NAFLD (OR = 1.37, 95% CI 0.93, 2.02, ptrend = 0.009) in the multivariable-adjusted models without body mass index (BMI). After further adjustment for BMI, only the association of hPDI with NAFLD remained statistically significant (OR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.46, 0.87, ptrend = 0.006). Such inverse association appeared stronger in non-Hispanic whites, but not in other racial/ethnic groups (pinteraction = 0.009). Our findings suggest that a plant-based diet rich in healthy plant foods might be associated with lower odds of NAFLD, particularly among US non-Hispanic whites. Clinical trials and cohort studies to validate our findings are needed.

Differences in Metabolomic Profiles Between Black and White Women and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease: an Observational Study of Women From Four US Cohorts

BACKGROUND

Racial differences in metabolomic profiles may reflect underlying differences in social determinants of health by self-reported race and may be related to racial disparities in coronary heart disease (CHD) among women in the United States. However, the magnitude of differences in metabolomic profiles between Black and White women in the United States has not been well-described. It also remains unknown whether such differences are related to differences in CHD risk.

METHODS

Plasma metabolomic profiles were analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in the WHI-OS (Women's Health Initiative-Observational Study; 138 Black and 696 White women), WHI-HT trials (WHI-Hormone Therapy; 156 Black and 1138 White women), MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis; 114 Black and 219 White women), JHS (Jackson Heart Study; 1465 Black women with 107 incident CHD cases), and NHS (Nurses' Health Study; 2506 White women with 136 incident CHD cases). First, linear regression models were used to estimate associations between self-reported race and 472 metabolites in WHI-OS (discovery); findings were replicated in WHI-HT and validated in MESA. Second, we used elastic net regression to construct a racial difference metabolomic pattern (RDMP) representing differences in the metabolomic patterns between Black and White women in the WHI-OS; the RDMP was validated in the WHI-HT and MESA. Third, using conditional logistic regressions in the WHI (717 CHD cases and 719 matched controls), we examined associations of metabolites with large differences in levels by race and the RDMP with risk of CHD, and the results were replicated in Black women from the JHS and White women from the NHS.

RESULTS

Of the 472 tested metabolites, levels of 259 (54.9%) metabolites, mostly lipid metabolites and amino acids, significantly differed between Black and White women in both WHI-OS and WHI-HT after adjusting for baseline characteristics, socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, baseline health conditions, and medication use (false discovery rate <0.05); similar trends were observed in MESA. The RDMP, composed of 152 metabolites, was identified in the WHI-OS and showed significantly different distributions between Black and White women in the WHI-HT and MESA. Higher RDMP quartiles were associated with an increased risk of incident CHD (odds ratio=1.51 [0.97-2.37] for the highest quartile comparing to the lowest; Ptrend=0.02), independent of self-reported race and known CHD risk factors. In race-stratified analyses, the RDMP-CHD associations were more pronounced in White women. Similar patterns were observed in Black women from the JHS and White women from the NHS.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolomic profiles significantly and substantially differ between Black and White women and may be associated with CHD risk and racial disparities in US women.

Heterogeneity in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factor Prevalence Among White, African American, African Immigrant, and Afro-Caribbean Adults: Insights From the 2010-2018 National Health Interview Survey

Background In the United States, Black adults have higher rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors than White adults. However, it is unclear how CVD risk factors compare between Black ethnic subgroups, including African Americans (AAs), African immigrants (AIs), and Afro-Caribbeans, and White people. Our objective was to examine trends in CVD risk factors among 3 Black ethnic subgroups and White adults between 2010 and 2018. Methods and Results A comparative analysis of the National Health Interview Survey was conducted among 452 997 participants, examining sociodemographic characteristics and trends in 4 self-reported CVD risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, overweight/obesity, and smoking). Generalized linear models with Poisson distribution were used to obtain predictive probabilities of the CVD risk factors. The sample included 82 635 Black (89% AAs, 5% AIs, and 6% Afro-Caribbeans) and 370 362 White adults. AIs were the youngest, most educated, and least insured group. AIs had the lowest age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of all 4 CVD risk factors. AAs had the highest prevalence of hypertension (2018: 41.9%) compared with the other groups. Overweight/obesity and diabetes prevalence increased in AAs and White adults from 2010 to 2018 (P values for trend <0.001). Smoking prevalence was highest among AAs and White adults, but decreased significantly in these groups between 2010 and 2018 (P values for trend <0.001), as compared with AIs and Afro-Caribbeans. Conclusions We observed significant heterogeneity in CVD risk factors among 3 Black ethnic subgroups compared with White adults. There were disparities (among AAs) and advantages (among AIs and Afro-Caribbeans) in CVD risk factors, suggesting that race alone does not account for disparities in CVD risk factors.

Associations of Demographic, Socioeconomic, and Cognitive Characteristics With Mobile Health Access: MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis)

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) has an emerging role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. This study evaluated possible inequities in mHealth access in older adults.

Methods and Results

mHealth access was assessed from 2019 to 2020 in MESA (Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) telephone surveys of 2796 participants aged 62 to 102 years. A multivariable logistic regression model adjusted for general health status assessed associations of mHealth access measures with relevant demographic, socioeconomic, and cognitive characteristics. There were lower odds of all access measures with older age (odds ratios [ORs], 0.37–0.59 per 10 years) and annual income <$50 000 (versus ≥$50 000 ORs, 0.55–0.62), and higher odds with higher Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument Score (ORs, 1.22–1.29 per 5 points). Men (versus women) had higher odds of internet access (OR, 1.32 [95% CI,1.05–1.66]) and computing device ownership (OR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.05–1.63]) but lower fitness tracker ownership odds (OR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.49–0.89]). For internet access and computing device ownership, we saw lower odds for Hispanic participants (versus White participants OR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.44–0.85]; OR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.50–0.95]) and less than a high school education (versus bachelor's degree or higher OR, 0.27 [95% CI, 0.18–0.40]; OR, 0.32 [95% CI, 0.28–0.62]). For internet access, lower odds were seen for Black participants (versus White participants OR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.47–0.86]) and other health insurance (versus health maintenance organization/private OR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.47–0.74]). Chinese participants (versus White participants) had lower internet access odds (OR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.44–0.91]) but higher computing device ownership odds (OR, 1.87 [95% CI, 1.28–2.77]).

Conclusions

Among older‐age adults, mHealth access varied by major demographic, socioeconomic, and cognitive characteristics, suggesting a digital divide. Novel mHealth interventions should consider individual access barriers.

Registration

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/; Unique identifier: NCT00005487.

Racial disparities in prostate cancer among black men: epidemiology and outcomes

Prostate cancer has the widest racial disparities of any cancer, and these disparities appear at every stage of the cancer continuum. This review focuses on the disparities in prostate cancer between Black and White men, spanning from prevention and screening to clinical outcomes. We conduct an expansive review of the literature on racial disparities in prostate cancer, interpret the findings, and discuss areas of unmet need in research. We provide an overview of epidemiologic concepts necessary to understanding the current state of prostate cancer disparities, discuss the complexities of studying race, and review potential drivers of disparities in incidence and mortality. We argue that the cause of this disparity is multifactorial and due to a combination of social and environmental factors. The path forward needs to focus on enrolling and retaining Black men in prostate cancer clinical trials and observational studies and identifying potential interventions to improve prevention and clinical outcomes in Black men.

Two-year outcomes of Faith in Action/Fe en Acción: a randomized controlled trial of physical activity promotion in Latinas

Background

Latina women are less likely to report engaging in leisure-time physical activity (PA) than non-Latina white women. This study evaluated the 24-month impact of a faith-based PA intervention targeting Latinas.

Methods

The study is a cluster randomized controlled trial of a PA intervention or cancer screening comparison condition, with churches as the randomization unit. A total of 436 Latinas (aged 18-65 years) from 16 churches who engaged in low levels of self-report and accelerometer-based PA were enrolled. The experimental condition was a 24-month PA intervention, with in-person classes, social support, and environmental changes, led by community health workers (i.e., promotoras). At baseline, 12-, and 24 months, we assessed changes in accelerometer-based and self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA; primary outcomes). Secondary outcomes were light intensity activity, sedentary time, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference.

Results

After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, a mixed effects analysis found significant increases in self-reported leisure time MVPA (p < 0.005) and marginal increases in accelerometer-assessed MVPA (p < 0.08) 24 months post-baseline in the intervention compared to the attention-control condition. Data showed significant associations between PA class attendance and engaging in MVPA as assessed by self-report and accelerometry. No significant changes were found for light activity, sedentary time, BMI, or waist circumference.

Conclusions

Participants who attended the PA classes at least once a month engaged in significantly higher MVPA compared to those who did not. Maximizing engagement and maintenance strategies to enhance PA maintenance could contribute to important long-term health benefits.

Trial registration

NCT01776632, Registered March 18, 2011.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12966-022-01329-6.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Social Determinants of Health Research, Fiscal Year 2008-2020

INTRODUCTION

Social determinants of health influence the prevention, treatment, and progression of chronic diseases, including heart, lung, blood, and sleep diseases and conditions. Healthy People 2020 classifies Social Determinants of Health into 5 subcategories: (1) Neighborhood and Built Environment, (2) Education, (3) Economic Stability, (4) Social and Community Context, and (5) Health and Health Care. This study's goal is to characterize the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Fiscal Year 2008-2020 funding in overall Social Determinants of Health research and in the Healthy People 2020 subcategories.

METHODS

The Social Determinants of Health Research, Condition, and Disease Categorization code was used to identify funded grants in this area. Natural language processing methods further categorized grants into the 5 Healthy People 2020 Social Determinants of Health subcategories.

RESULTS

There were 915 (∼4.3%) social determinants of health‒funded grants from 2008 to 2020 representing $1,034 billion in direct costs. Most grants were relevant to cardiovascular diseases (n=653), with a smaller number relevant to lung diseases (n=186), blood diseases (n=47), and translational and implementation science (n=29). Grants fit multiple Social Determinants of Health subcategories with the majority identified as Health and Health Care (62%) and Economic Stability (61%). The number of National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute social determinants of health grants awarded increased by 127% from Fiscal Year 2008 to Fiscal Year 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies Social Determinants of Health grants funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute during 2008‒2020. Enhancing the understanding of these determinants and developing effective interventions will ultimately help to advance the mission of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Psychological and social support associations with mortality and cardiovascular disease in middle-aged American Indians: the Strong Heart Study

PURPOSE

Our study examined psychosocial risk and protective features affecting cardiovascular and mortality disparities in American Indians, including stress, anger, cynicism, trauma, depression, quality of life, and social support.

METHODS

The Strong Heart Family Study cohort recruited American Indian adults from 12 communities over 3 regions in 2001-2003 (N = 2786). Psychosocial measures included Cohen Perceived Stress, Spielberger Anger Expression, Cook-Medley cynicism subscale, symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale, Short Form 12-a quality of life scale, and the Social Support and Social Undermining scale. Cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality were evaluated by surveillance and physician adjudication through 2017.

RESULTS

Participants were middle-aged, 40% male, with mean 12 years formal education. Depression symptoms were correlated with anger, cynicism, poor quality of life, isolation, criticism; better social support was correlated with lower cynicism, anger, and trauma. Adjusted time-to-event regressions found that depression, (poor) quality of life, and social isolation scores formed higher risk for mortality and cardiovascular events, and social support was associated with lower risk. Social support partially explained risk associations in causal mediation analyses.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our findings suggest that social support is associated with better mood and quality of life; and lower cynicism, stress, and disease risk-even when said risk may be increased by comorbidities. Future research should examine whether enhancing social support can prospectively reduce risk, as an efficient, cost-effective intervention opportunity that may be enacted at the community level.

Collecting, Using, and Reporting Race and Ethnicity Information: Implications for Research in Nutrition Education, Practice, and Policy to Promote Health Equity

This report will describe approaches for collecting, analyzing, and reporting race and ethnicity information in nutrition education and behavior research, practice, and policy to advance health equity. Race and ethnicity information is used to describe study participants and compare nutrition and health-related outcomes. Depending on the study design, race and ethnicity categories are often defined by the research question or other standardized approaches. Participant self-reported data are more acceptable than researcher adjudicated identification data, which can add bias and/or error. Valid methods to collect, use, and report race and ethnicity information are foundational to publication quality, findings of value, contribution to the knowledge base, and health equity.

Demographic and State-Level Trends in Mortality Due to Ischemic Heart Disease in the United States from 1999 to 2019

Although there have been advances in ischemic heart disease (IHD) care, variation in IHD-related mortality trends across the United States has not been well described. We used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research database to evaluate variation in IHD-related mortality for demographic groups in the United States between 1999 and 2019. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) were stratified by gender, race, Hispanic ethnicity, and US state. Crude mortality rates were evaluated using 10-year age groups. IHD-related AAMRs decreased from 195 to 88 per 100,000 nationally, with slower a decrease from 2010 to 2019 (average annual percent change [AAPC] -2.6% [95% confidence interval -2.9% to -2.2%]) compared with 2002 to 2010 (AAPC -5.3% [95% confidence interval -5.6% to -4.9%]). All groups had decreases in AAMRs, although Black populations persistently had the highest AAMR, and women had greater relative decreases than men. AAPC was -3.7% for White men, -4.7% for White women, -3.9% for Black men, -4.9% for Black women, -4.1% for Hispanic men, and -5.1% for Hispanic women. Populations ≥65 years had greater relative mortality decreases than populations <65 years. The median AAMR (2019) and AAPC (1999 to 2019) across states was 86 (range 58 to 134) and -3.8% (range -1.7% to -4.8%), respectively. In conclusion, declines in IHD-related mortality have slowed in the United States, with a significant geographic variation. Black populations persistently had the highest AAMRs, and decreases were relatively greater for women and populations ≥65 years. The impact of demographics and geography on IHD should be further explored and addressed as part of public health measures.

The Impact of a Plant-Based Diet on Indices of Cardiovascular Health in African Americans: A Cross-Sectional Study

African American (AA) individuals are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular diseases. Plant-based diets (PBD) may be cardioprotective in part through their high antioxidant capacity and low inflammatory load. We tested the hypothesis that AA individuals adhering to a 100% PBD would have better vascular health than AA individuals following a typical American diet (TAD). Eighteen AA individuals participated; 9 (24±4 years; 6 females) were following a PBD for 2.4±0.8 years and 9 (21±2 years; 5 females) were following a TAD. Blood lipids and C-reactive protein (CRP) were assessed. Peripheral and central blood pressure (BP) were measured, and vascular function tests included cerebrovascular reactivity to hypercapnia, brachial artery flow-mediated dilation & reactive hyperemia, and local heating-induced cutaneous hyperemia. Total (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) serum cholesterol were lower (TC: 142±30 vs. 174±36 mg/dl; LDL-C: 76±17 vs. 106±33 mg/dl; p<0.05 and d>0.80 for both) and serum CRP tended to be lower (0.38±0.18 mg/l vs. 0.96±0.89 mg/l; p=0.05, d=0.91) in the PBD cohort. Brachial (b) and central (c) mean arterial BP (MAP) were lower in the PBD cohort (bMAP: 86±5 vs. 91±7 mmHg; cMAP: 81±5 vs. 87±7 mmHg; p<0.05 and d>0.80 for both). All indices of vascular function were similar between groups (p>0.05 for all). A PBD was associated with more optimal blood lipid concentrations and decreased peripheral and central BP in AA individuals, but this association was not present in the various indices of vascular function. Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05344287.

Validation of the society of thoracic surgeons predicted risk of mortality score for long-term survival after cardiac surgery in Israel

Background

Long-term survival is an important metric in assessing procedural value. We previously confirmed that the Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality score (PROM) accurately predicts 30-day mortality in Israeli patients. The present study investigated the ability of the PROM to reliably predict long-term survival.

Methods

Data on 1279 patients undergoing cardiac surgery were prospectively entered into our database and used to calculate PROM. Long-term mortality was obtained from the Israeli Social Security Database. Patients were stratified into five cohorts according to PROM (A: 0–0.99%, B: 1.0–1.99%, C: 2.0–2.99%, D: 3.0–4.99% and E: ≥ 5.0%). Kaplan–Meier estimates of survival were calculated for each cohort and compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test. We used C-statistics to assess model discrimination. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of long-term survival.

Results

Follow-up was achieved for 1256 (98%) patients over a mean period of 62 ± 28 months (median 64, range 0–107). Mean survival of the entire cohort was 95 ± 1 (95% CI 93–96) months. Higher PROM was associated with reduced survival: A—104 ± 1 (103–105) months, B—96 ± 2 (93–99) months, C—93 ± 3 (88–98) months, D—89 ± 3 (84–94) months, E—74 ± 3 (68–80) months (p < 0.0001). The Area Under the Curve was 0.76 ± 0.02 indicating excellent model discrimination. Independent predictors of long-term mortality included advanced age, lower ejection fraction, reoperation, diabetes mellitus, dialysis and PROM.

Conclusions

The PROM was a reliable predictor of long-term survival in Israeli patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The PROM might be a useful metric for assessing procedural value and surgical decision-making.

Age, Sex, Race/Ethnicity, and Income Patterns in Ideal Cardiovascular Health Among Adolescents and Adults in the U.S

INTRODUCTION

Ideal cardiovascular health is present in <50% of children and <1% of adults, yet its prevalence from adolescence through adulthood has not been fully evaluated. This study characterizes the association of age with ideal cardiovascular health and compares these associations across sex, race/ethnicity, and SES subgroups.

METHODS

This study, conducted in 2020, analyzed adolescents and adults aged 12-79 years from the cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2016 (N=38,706). Polynomial models were used to model the association of age with ideal cardiovascular health, defined using the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 criteria (scales 0-14, with higher values indicating better cardiovascular health).

RESULTS

Mean cardiovascular health was lower with increasing age, starting in early adolescence and dropping to a nadir by age 60 years before stabilizing. At age 20 years, only 45% of adults had ideal cardiovascular health (≥5 ideal cardiovascular health metrics), and >50% of adults had poor cardiovascular health (≤2 ideal cardiovascular health metrics) at age 53 years. Women had higher mean cardiovascular health than men in early life but lower mean cardiovascular health from age 60 years onward. Mean cardiovascular health scores were highest for non-Hispanic White and higher-income adults and lowest for non-Hispanic Black and low-income adults across all ages. Mean cardiovascular health scores fell from intermediate to poor levels approximately 30 years earlier for non-Hispanic Black than for non-Hispanic White adults and approximately 35 years earlier for low-income adults than in higher-income adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular health scores are lower with increasing age from early adolescence through adulthood. Race/ethnicity and income disparities in cardiovascular health are observed at young ages and are more profound at older ages.

Sustainable low-field cardiovascular magnetic resonance in changing healthcare systems

Cardiovascular disease continues to be a major burden facing healthcare systems worldwide. In the developed world, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is a well-established non-invasive imaging modality in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. However, there is significant global inequality in availability and access to CMR due to its high cost, technical demands as well as existing disparities in healthcare and technical infrastructures across high-income and low-income countries. Recent renewed interest in low-field CMR has been spurred by the clinical need to provide sustainable imaging technology capable of yielding diagnosticquality images whilst also being tailored to the local populations and healthcare ecosystems. This review aims to evaluate the technical, practical and cost considerations of low field CMR whilst also exploring the key barriers to implementing sustainable MRI in both the developing and developed world.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of atrial fibrillation at a tertiary center of Pakistan - From a South-Asian perspective - A cross-sectional study

Background

There is lack of large data from South-Asian region on atrial fibrillation and it is imperative that clinical presentation, prognostic factors, management pursued, and outcomes are known for this part of the world. Once collective evidence for the region is known, region-specific guidelines can be laid forward.

Objectives

To evaluate clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of atrial fibrillation at a tertiary care center of Pakistan.

Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care center of Pakistan. Period of study ranged from July–December 2018. All hospitalized patients who were admitted with atrial fibrillation as a primary or associated diagnosis were enrolled.

Results

A total of 636 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 68.5 ± 12 years and 49.5% (315) were male. 90.6% of the patients were admitted via emergency room. Majority (59.9%) had previously known AF and 40% developed new-onset AF during the hospital stay. Hypertension was the most common co-morbid condition (85.4%) followed by Diabetes Mellitus (40.1%). At least 9% had rheumatic heart disease. The median CHA₂DS₂VASc and HASBLED scores were 4 and 2 respectively. More than one-third of patients had sepsis as a primary diagnosis (36.8%). The in-hospital mortality of patients with atrial fibrillation was 6.7%. Patients with new-onset AF had higher mortality. Sepsis and stroke were independently associated with a higher mortality. There was no significant difference in median CHA₂DS₂VASc and HASBLED scores for patients with new-onset and previously known AF. On discharge, 83% of the eligible patients received oral anticoagulation.

Conclusion

There was higher prevalence of chronic co-morbid conditions in the studied population leading to a higher CHA₂DS₂VASC Score. Sepsis and stroke were independently associated with higher in-hospital mortality.

•

Sepsis and stroke are independently associated with higher in-hospital mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation.

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There is higher prevalence of chronic co-morbid conditions in the studied population.

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Hypertension is the most common co-morbid condition associated with atrial fibrillation.

Plant-based diets and incident cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in African Americans: A cohort study

BACKGROUND

Prior studies have documented lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among people with a higher adherence to a plant-based dietary pattern. Non-Hispanic black Americans are an understudied group with high burden of CVD, yet studies of plant-based diets have been limited in this population.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We conducted an analysis of prospectively collected data from a community-based cohort of African American adults (n = 3,635) in the Jackson Heart Study (JHS) aged 21-95 years, living in the Jackson, Mississippi, metropolitan area, US, who were followed from 2000 to 2018. Using self-reported dietary data, we assigned scores to participants' adherence to 3 plant-based dietary patterns: an overall plant-based diet index (PDI), a healthy PDI (hPDI), and an unhealthy PDI (uPDI). Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate associations between plant-based diet scores and CVD incidence and all-cause mortality. Over a median follow-up of 13 and 15 years, there were 293 incident CVD cases and 597 deaths, respectively. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, and education) and health behaviors (smoking, alcohol intake, margarine intake, physical activity, and total energy intake), no significant association was observed between plant-based diets and incident CVD for overall PDI (hazard ratio [HR] 1.06, 95% CI 0.78-1.42, p-trend = 0.72), hPDI (HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.80-1.42, p-trend = 0.67), and uPDI (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.71-1.28, p-trend = 0.76). Corresponding HRs (95% CIs) for all-cause mortality risk with overall PDI, hPDI, and uPDI were 0.96 (0.78-1.18), 0.94 (0.76-1.16), and 1.06 (0.86-1.30), respectively. Corresponding HRs (95% CIs) for incident coronary heart disease with overall PDI, hPDI, and uPDI were 1.09 (0.74-1.61), 1.11 (0.76-1.61), and 0.79 (0.52-1.18), respectively. For incident total stroke, HRs (95% CIs) for overall PDI, hPDI, and uPDI were 1.00 (0.66-1.52), 0.91 (0.61-1.36), and 1.26 (0.84-1.89) (p-trend for all tests > 0.05). Limitations of the study include use of self-reported dietary intake, residual confounding, potential for reverse causation, and that the study did not capture those who exclusively consume plant-derived foods.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study of black Americans, we observed that, unlike in prior studies, greater adherence to a plant-based diet was not associated with CVD or all-cause mortality.

Sign of the times: Community engagement to refine a cardiovascular mHealth intervention through a virtual focus group series during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background

African-Americans are underrepresented in mobile health intervention research studies which can perpetuate health inequities and the digital divide. A community-based, user-centered approach to designing mobile health interventions may increase their sociocultural relevance and effectiveness, especially with increased smartphone use during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We aimed to refine an existing mobile health intervention via a virtual focus group series.

Methods

African-American community members (n = 15) from churches in Minneapolis-St. Paul and Rochester, Minnesota were enrolled in a virtual (via videoconferencing), three-session focus group series over five months to refine a cardiovascular health-focused mobile health application (FAITH! [Fostering African-American Improvement in Total Health!] App). Participants accessed the app via their smartphones and received a Fitbit synced to the app. Participants engaged with multimedia cardiovascular health-focused education modules, a sharing board for social networking, and diet/physical activity self-monitoring. Participant feedback on app features prompted iterative revisions to the FAITH! App. Primary outcomes were app usability (assessed via Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale range: 0–5) and user satisfaction.

Results

Participants (mean age [SD]: 56.9 [12.3] years, 86.7% female) attended a mean 2.8 focus groups (80% attended all sessions). The revised FAITH! App exceeded the goal Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale score threshold of ≥4 (mean: 4.39, range: 3.20–4.95). Participants positively rated updated app content, visual appeal, and use of social incentives to maintain engagement. Increasing user control and refinement of the moderated sharing board were identified as areas for future improvement.

Conclusions

Community-partnered, virtual focus groups can optimize usability and increase participant satisfaction of mobile health lifestyle interventions that aim to promote cardiovascular health in African-Americans.

Engineering the multiscale complexity of vascular networks

The survival of vertebrate organisms depends on highly regulated delivery of oxygen and nutrients through vascular networks that pervade nearly all tissues in the body. Dysregulation of these vascular networks is implicated in many common human diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes and cancer. Therefore, engineers have sought to create vascular networks within engineered tissues for applications such as regenerative therapies, human disease modelling and pharmacological testing. Yet engineering vascular networks has historically remained difficult, owing to both incomplete understanding of vascular structure and technical limitations for vascular fabrication. This Review highlights the materials advances that have enabled transformative progress in vascular engineering by ushering in new tools for both visualizing and building vasculature. New methods such as bioprinting, organoids and microfluidic systems are discussed, which have enabled the fabrication of 3D vascular topologies at a cellular scale with lumen perfusion. These approaches to vascular engineering are categorized into technology-driven and nature-driven approaches. Finally, the remaining knowledge gaps, emerging frontiers and opportunities for this field are highlighted, including the steps required to replicate the multiscale complexity of vascular networks found in nature.