Prevalence and risk factors of premature coronary artery disease in patients undergoing coronary angiography in Kurdistan, Iraq

Adherence to EAT-Lancet reference diet and risk of premature coronary artery diseases: a multi-center case-control study

BACKGROUND

In 2019, a globally sustainable dietary pattern that primarily emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods was proposed by the EAT-Lancet Commission. However, there is limited evidence regarding the association of this diet with coronary events.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the association between the EAT-Lancet Reference Diet (ELD) and premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) risk and its severity.

METHODS

This multi-center, case-control study was conducted within the framework of the Iran premature coronary artery disease (I-PAD). A total of 3185 participants aged under 70 years in women and 60 years in men were included. Cases were those whose coronary angiography showed stenosis ≥ 75% in at least one vessel or ≥ 50% in the left main artery (n = 2033), while the controls had normal angiography results (n = 1152). Dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression was utilized to examine the association between ELD and presence of PCAD.

RESULTS

Compared with individuals in the first quartile, those in the highest quartile of ELD (OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.39; P for trend < 0.001) and ELD calculated with minimum intake (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.52; P < 0.001) had lower risk of PCAD. Individuals in the highest quartile of adherence to the ELD and ELD with minimum intake had 78% and 72% lower risk of having severe PCAD compared with those in the lowest quartile, respectively.

CONCLUSION

An inverse association was observed between adherence to the ELD and PCAD risk and its severity. Large-scale prospective cohort studies are required to confirm these findings.

Preoperative Echocardiographic Assessment in Elective Surgery Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study From Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan

Background and aim Echocardiography plays a pivotal role in the preoperative risk assessment of patients undergoing various surgical procedures. Therefore, we conducted this study to detect various cardiac abnormalities through a preoperative echocardiographic study for cases undergoing elective surgeries in Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan. Methods This cross-sectional study assessed echocardiographic findings in preoperative patients at Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, from 2023 to 2024. The study encompasses 468 adult patients. We gathered clinicodemographic characteristics, indications of referral to a preoperative echo study, and the echocardiographic findings, particularly regional wall motion abnormalities, valvular heart diseases, and heart failure (systolic or diastolic/left ventricular hypertrophy). Results In a cohort of 468 patients, 205 (43.80%) were aged 35-54 years, and 269 (57.48%) were female. Most patients (366; 78.21%) resided in Duhok. Nearly only half of the cases 219 (46.79%) had clear preoperative echostudy indications. A total of 289 (61.74%) had no remarkable echocardiographic findings. Diastolic heart failure was most prevalent at 65 (13.89%). Older cases had more prevalent echo findings in terms of valve dysfunctions and heart failure. Notable associations were found between echocardiographic abnormalities and surgical types, particularly higher regional wall motion abnormalities in genito-urinary system operations (4; 8.16%) and valvular heart disease in orthopedic surgeries (13; 15.85%). Conclusions Echocardiographic abnormalities were remarkably observed in patients aged 65 and older. Many cases had no clear indications for preoperative echo study and hence unremarkable echo findings. More scrutiny is indicated during referral, and focusing on older adults' preoperative cardiac screening is recommended.

Prevalence and Predictors of Occlusive Myocardial Infarction in Patients Presenting With Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome in Duhok, Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and aim Myocardial infarction is a major global health issue and the leading cause of death. Non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) could behave like ST-segment elevation ACS in terms of causing total or near total occlusion of the coronary artery and leading to occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI). This study aims to assess OMI prevalence and associated factors in NSTE-ACS patients in Duhok, Iraq, to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Materials and methods This prospective cross-sectional study, conducted at Azadi Heart Center and Zakho Teaching Hospital from March 2023 to March 2024, included 189 NSTE-ACS patients undergoing coronary angiography. Data collection encompassed demographics, clinical profiles, electrocardiographic (ECG) patterns, cardiac biomarkers, and angiographic outcomes. Patients were categorized into those with and without occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI). Results A total of 189 NSTE-ACS patients with a mean age of 58.65 (±10.38 SD) years were enrolled in the study. The overall OMI rate was 29.63%. OMI patients were older and had a higher prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and a family history of ischemic heart disease (IHD). Significant ECG changes associated with OMI included biphasic T-wave inversion and ST depression in specific leads. Marked elevation in troponin levels was also noted in OMI patients. The left anterior descending (LAD) artery was the most common culprit artery. Conclusions About one-quarter of our study cohort exhibited OMI. The condition was linked to clinical, ECG, and elevated troponin levels. The study underscores the importance of promptly recognizing occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI) in NSTE-ACS patients for better outcomes. Regular audits are imperative to augment awareness among healthcare professionals at cardiac centers regarding updated protocols and guidelines.

Identifying risk factors and mortality rate of premature coronary artery disease in young Saudi population

Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It occurs due to a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) is a neglected clinical entity despite the rising number of cases worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors of premature coronary artery disease. In this study, we searched articles that had studied the risk factors of premature coronary artery diseases from January 2000 to July 2022 in Saudi Arabia in Web of Science, Pub Med, Scopus, Springer, and Wiley databases. The final analysis is based on seven articles. The smoking prevalence was 39%, diabetes mellitus 41%, hypertension 33%, overweight and obesity 18%, family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) 19%, dyslipidemia 37%, and the prevalence range of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was 33.8-55.0%. The results revealed a mortality prevalence of 4% ranging from 2 to 8% which is similar to the prevalence in older patients which was 2-10%. Smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, family history of CAD, dyslipidemia, and overweight/obesity are significantly and positively associated with premature coronary artery diseases. The health authorities should design and implement an intensive and effective prophylactic plan to minimize the subsequent impact of PCAD on the young population. In addition, early diagnosis of PCAD has great value in providing timely treatment, managing the patients, and minimizing the burden of the disease.

Effect of combining evolocumab with statin on carotid intraplaque neovascularization in patients with premature coronary artery disease (EPOCH)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We aimed to explore the effect of PCSK9 inhibitor based on the background of statin on carotid intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) assessed by serial contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) analysis in Chinese patients with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD).

METHODS

41 patients were included to receive treatments with biweekly evolocumab (n = 22) or placebo (n = 19) in addition to statin therapy for 52 weeks. All patients were newly diagnosed with PCAD and treatments were initiated at baseline of the observations. Baseline and 52-week CEUS were acquired to measure the max plaque height (MPH) and IPN. The primary outcome was the 52-week IPN changes, the secondary endpoints included the 52-week MPH changes and major adverse cardiovascular events.

RESULTS

The mean ± SD age of the participants was 46.76 ± 8.56 years, and 61% (25/41) of patients were on statins before the start of the study. There was no statistically significant difference in the history of statins treatment and the initiated lipid-lowering therapy of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin between groups (p > 0.05). At 52 weeks, the evolocumab group showed a lower LDL level (0.84 ± 0.45 mmol/L vs. 1.58 ± 0.51 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and a greater decrease in percent reduction of LDL-C level (-65% vs. -32%) and a higher percent of achieving lipid-lowering target (95% vs. 53%, p < 0.05) compared with the placebo group. At 52 weeks, IPN (evolocumab group: 0.50 ± 0.60 vs. 1.50 ± 0.80, p < 0.001; placebo group: 0.79 ± 0.54 vs. 1.26 ± 0.65, p < 0.05) and MPH (evolocumab group: 2.01 ± 0.44 mm vs. 2.57 ± 0.90 mm, p < 0.05, placebo group: 2.21 ± 0.58 mm vs. 2.92 ± 0.86 mm, p < 0.05) reduced significantly in both groups from baseline to 52-week follow-up. IPN and MPH were decreased by both treatments. Still, there was no significant difference in delta (52 weeks - baseline) MPH by an ANOVA analysis between the two groups [evolocumab group: -0.56 mm (2.01 mm-2.57 mm); placebo group: -0.71 mm (2.21 mm-2.92 mm), p > 0.05]. In the evolocumab group, the change in the mean reduction of IPN from baseline [-1.00 (0.50-1.50) vs. -0.47 (0.79-1.26), p < 0.05] and the incidence of patients with carotid IPN decrease were significantly greater reduction (90% vs. 58%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

If compared to placebo, the PCSK9 inhibitor evolocumab combined with statins resulted in a greater decrease in LDL-C and plaque neovascularization in Chinese patients with PCAD.

The relationship between nut consumption and premature coronary artery disease in a representative sample of Iranians: Iran-premature coronary artery disease (IPAD) study

OBJECTIVE

The cardioprotective effects of nuts are well established. However, the positive impacts of nuts in preventing CVD at a younger age, a condition known as premature coronary artery disease (PCAD), is still debated. Therefore, we aim to determine the association between nuts and PCAD occurrence and its severity in different Iranian ethnicities.

DESIGN

This case-control study was conducted within the framework of the Iran-premature coronary artery disease (I-PAD) study, an ongoing multi-centric study on Iranian patients of different ethnicities.

SETTING

This multi-centric case-control study was conducted in among 3253 persons under the age of 70 years in women and 60 years in men from different ethnicities in Iran.

PARTICIPANTS

Information on nut consumption was collected using a validated FFQ. Subjects were selected from among the candidates for angiography. Cases were those whose coronary angiography showed stenosis of more than 75 % in at least one vessel or more than 50 % of the left main artery, while the control group participants had normal angiography results.

RESULTS

In the crude model, compared to the first quartile, the highest quartile of nut consumption was significantly associated with a lower risk of PCAD (OR = 0·26, 95 % CI (0·21, 0·32); Pfor trend = 0·001). In the top quartile of nut intake, a substantial decrease in PCAD was observed after controlling for putative confounders (OR = 0·32; 95 % CI (0·24, 0·43); Pfor trend = 0·001). Additionally, a 75 % decrease in the risk of severe PCAD was observed in the participants in the highest quartile of nut intake.

CONCLUSION

A significant inverse association was observed between nut intake and the risk and severity of PCAD in the Iranian population. Large-scale clinical trials are required to confirm these findings.

Risk Factors for Early-Onset Versus Late-Onset Coronary Heart Disease (CHD): Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

AIM

We aimed to systematically compare literature on prevalence of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for early compared to late-onset coronary heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched (review protocol registered in PROSPERO CRD42020173216). Study quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute tool for observational and case-control studies. Review Manager 5.3 was used for meta-analysis. Effect sizes were expressed as odds ratio (OR) and mean differences (MD)/standardised MD (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for categorical and continuous variables.

RESULTS

Individuals presenting with early-onset CHD (age <65 years) compared to late-onset CHD had higher mean body mass index (MD 1.07 kg/m2; 95% CI 0.31-1.83), total cholesterol (SMD 0.43; 95% CI 0.23-0.62), low-density lipoprotein (SMD 0.26; 95% CI 0.15-0.36) and triglycerides (SMD 0.50; 95% CI 0.22-0.68) with lower high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (SMD 0.26; 95% CI -0.42--0.11). They were more likely to be smokers (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.39-2.22) and have a positive family history of CHD (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.74-2.48). They had lower mean systolic blood pressure (MD 4.07 mmHg; 95% CI -7.36--0.78) and were less likely to have hypertension (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.39-0.57), diabetes mellitus (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.51-0.61) or stroke (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.24-0.42).

CONCLUSION

A focus on weight management and smoking cessation and aggressive management of dyslipidaemia in young adults may reduce the risk of early-onset CHD.

The relationship between ultra processed food consumption and premature coronary artery disease: Iran premature coronary artery disease study (IPAD)

Background

Ultra-processed foods (UPF) consumption may affect the risk of PCAD through affecting cardio metabolic risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the association between UPFs consumption and premature coronary artery disease (PCAD).

Methods

A case-control study was conducted on 2,354 Iranian adults (≥ 19 years). Dietary intake was assessed using a validated 110-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and foods were classified based on the NOVA system, which groups all foods according to the nature, extent and purposes of the industrial processes they undergo. PCAD was defined as having an stenosis of at least single coronary artery equal and above 75% or left main coronary of equal or more than 50% in women less than 70 and men less than 60 years, determined by angiography. The odds of PCAD across the tertiles of UPFs consumption were assessed by binary logistic regression.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounders, participants in the top tertile of UPFs were twice as likely to have PCAD compared with those in the bottom tertile (OR: 2.52; 95% CI: 1.97-3.23). Moreover, those in the highest tertile of the UPFs consumption had more than two times higher risk for having severe PCAD than those in the first tertile (OR: 2.64; 95% CI: 2.16-3.22). In addition, there was a significant upward trend in PCAD risk and PCAD severity as tertiles increased (P-trend < 0.001 for all models).

Conclusion

Higher consumption of UPFs was related to increased risk of PCAD and higher chance of having severe PCAD in Iranian adults. Although, future cohort studies are needed to confirm the results of this study, these findings indicated the necessity of reducing UPFs intake.

Rates of the Trans-radial Approach in Elective and Emergency Coronary Angiography in Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and aims The trans-radial access is becoming the default approach in many cardiac centers worldwide. Data from the Middle East, including Iraq, on the trends and rates of the use of trans-radial access are scarce. The aim of this study is to determine the rates of trans-radial approach (TRA) versus transfemoral approach (TFA) in patients with coronary artery syndromes undergoing coronary angiography and/or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in Iraq. Methods In this multicenter prospective study, we collected 885 cases of coronary artery disease undergoing coronary angiography/PCI from three main cities of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq from 2022 to 2023. Results Of the total sample, 57.2% were diagnostic coronary angiography and 42.8% were PCI, 57.1% of all cases were TFA and 42.9% were TRA, and 64.3% of PCI cases were performed through TFA. Eghty-two percent of total emergency PCI included (primary PCI) cases underwent the procedure through the TFA, and only 18% of such cases were through the TRA. The overall crossover rate between both approaches happened in 14 (3.6%) cases. Conclusions Despite its main benefits, the radial access use in the Cath lab is yet underused in our region. Further steps in training programs are indicated to popularize the use of radial access among interventional cardiologists in addition to transfemoral access.

Ethnic differences in the lifestyle behaviors and premature coronary artery disease: a multi-center study

BACKGROUND

Diverse ethnic groups that exist in Iran may differ regarding the risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and family history of non-communicable disease. Premature Coronary Artery Disease (PCAD) is more endemic in Iran than before. This study sought to assess the association between ethnicity and lifestyle behaviors in eight major Iranian ethnic groups with PCAD.

METHODS

In this study, 2863 patients aged ≤ 70 for women and ≤ 60 for men who underwent coronary angiography were recruited in a multi-center framework. All the patients' demographic, laboratory, clinical, and risk factor data were retrieved. Eight large ethnicities in Iran, including the Farses, the Kurds, the Turks, the Gilaks, the Arabs, the Lors, the Qashqai, and the Bakhtiari were evaluated for PCAD. Different lifestyle components and having PCAD were compared among the ethnical groups using multivariable modeling.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 2863 patients participated was 55.66 ± 7.70 years. The Fars ethnicity with 1654 people, was the most subject in this study. Family history of more than three chronic diseases (1279 (44.7%) was the most common risk factor. The Turk ethnic group had the highest prevalence of ≥ 3 simultaneous lifestyle-related risk factors (24.3%), and the Bakhtiari ethnic group had the highest prevalence of no lifestyle-related risk factors (20.9%). Adjusted models showed that having all three abnormal lifestyle components increased the risk of PCAD (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.04-1.06). The Arabs had the most chance of getting PCAD among other ethnicities (OR = 2.26, 95%CI: 1.40-3.65). While, the Kurds with a healthy lifestyle showed the lowest chance of getting PCAD (OR = 1.96, 95%CI: 1.05-3.67)).

CONCLUSIONS

This study found there was heterogeneity in having PACD and a diverse distribution in its well-known traditional lifestyle-related risk factors among major Iranian ethnic groups.

Biomarkers for Premature Coronary Artery Disease (PCAD): A Case Control Study

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is often associated with the older generation. However, in recent years, there is an increasing trend in the prevalence of CAD among the younger population; this is known as premature CAD. Although biomarkers for CAD have been established, there are limited studies focusing on premature CAD especially among the Malay male population. Thus, the aim of this research was to compare the biomarkers between premature CAD (PCAD) and older CAD (OCAD) among Malay males. Subjects, recruited from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre and National Heart Institution, were divided into four groups: healthy control < 45 years old; premature CAD (PCAD) < 45 years old; healthy control > 60 years old; and older CAD (OCAD) > 60 years old, with n = 30 for each group. Ten potential markers for CAD including soluble sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, Apo-E and Apo-A1, homocysteine, CRP, and vitamin D levels were examined. Our results revealed premature CAD patients had significantly higher values (p < 0.05) of sVCAM-1, CRP, interleukin-6, and vitamin D when compared to the age-matched controls. Similarly, older CAD patients showed higher levels of sVCAM-1, CRP, and interleukin-2 when compared to their age-matched controls. After adjusting for multiple parameters, only CRP remained significant for PCAD and interleukin-2 remained significant for CAD. This indicates that premature CAD and older CAD patients showed different profiles of protein biomarkers. CRP has the potential to become a biomarker for premature CAD while interleukin-2 is a better biomarker for older CAD together with other typical panels of protein biomarkers.

Clinical and economic impact of coronary artery bypass graft and percutaneous coronary intervention in young individuals with acute coronary syndromes and multivessel disease: A real-world comparison in a middle-income country

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, the world watched a dramatic increase in the incidence of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) among young individuals (≤55 years-old) and a relative decrease in the elderly. The management of ACS in young patients with multivessel disease still needs to be elucidated, as these individuals maintain a long life expectancy.

RESEARCH QUESTION

To compare clinical outcomes and care costs in individuals with premature ACS and multivessel disease undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Participants included all individuals ≤55 years-old admitted with ACS to public hospitals in Brasília (Brazil) between 2013 and 2015 and who underwent cardiac catheterization with SYNTAX score ≥23 or Duke category 6. Outcomes were adjudicated with death certificates and data from medical records. The primary outcome was the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as death due to cardiovascular causes, recurrent hospitalizations due to cardiovascular ischemic events, and incident heart failure New York Heart Association III-IV. As secondary outcome we assessed indirect and direct costs by evaluating the cost of lost productivity (in international dollars (Int$) per year) due to illness and death, outpatient costs and costs with new hospitalizations. Multivariate and principal components (PC) adjusted analyzes were performed.

RESULTS

Among 1,088 subjects (111 CABG and 977 PCI) followed for 6.2 years (IQR: 1.1), 304 primary events were observed. MACE was observed in 20.7% of the CABG group and 28.8% of the PCI group (p = 0.037). In multivariate analyses, PCI was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) = 1.227 (95% CI: 1.004-1.499; p = 0.0457) for MACE, and in PC-adjusted HR = 1.268 (95% CI: 1.048-1.548; p = 0.0271) compared with CABG. Despite direct costs were equivalent, the cost due to the loss of labor productivity was higher in the PCI group (Int$ 4,511 (IQR: 18,062)/year vs Int$ 3,578 (IQR: 13,198)/year; p = 0.049], compared with CABG.

CONCLUSIONS

Among young individuals with ACS and multivessel disease, surgical strategy was associated with a lower occurrence of MACE and lower indirect costs in the long-term.

Correlation of triglyceride-glucose index and dyslipidaemia with premature coronary heart diseases and multivessel disease: a cross-sectional study in Tianjin, China

OBJECTIVES

Over the past decade, the incidence and global burden of coronary heart disease (CHD) have increased in the young population. We aimed to identify patient characteristics and risk factors for premature CHD, including single-vessel disease (SVD) and multivessel disease (MVD).

DESIGN

Retrospective, cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Demographic and clinical data of patients with CHD were collected from the patient medical records of a tertiary hospital in Tianjin, China, between 2014 and 2017.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 2846 patients were enrolled in the study.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Premature CHD, which is the primary outcome, was defined as men<45 years and women<55 years. MVD, which is the secondary outcome, was defined as at least two vessels with ≥50% stenosis. Logistic regression models were applied to analyse the characteristics and risk factors of premature CHD and MVD.

RESULTS

Most of the characteristics between patients with premature and mature CHD were not statistically significant. A significantly higher dyslipidaemia prevalence was found in female patients with premature CHD (OR=1.412, 95% CI: 1.029 to 1.936). In the crude model, instead of premature SVD, premature (OR=2.065, 95% CI: 1.426 to 2.991) or mature (OR=1.837, 95% CI: 1.104 to 3.056) MVD was more common in female patients with the highest triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index quartile than those with the lowest TyG index quartile. In male patients, the same trend was observed for mature MVD (OR=2.272, 95% CI: 1.312 to 3.937). The significance of the TyG index was not revealed in multivariate analyses; however, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, old myocardial infarction and lipoprotein (a) showed a positive association with MVD.

CONCLUSIONS

Dyslipidaemia should be considered as an effective factor for the prediction and prevention of premature CHD in women. The TyG index can be a simple auxiliary indicator that can be used in population-based cardiovascular disease screening for the early identification of vascular disease severity.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia and coronary risk factors among patients with angiogram-proven premature coronary artery disease in an Asian cohort

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) patients have elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, rendering them at high risk of premature coronary artery disease (PCAD). However, the FH prevalence among angiogram-proven PCAD (AP-PCAD) patients and their status of coronary risk factors (CRFs) have not been reported in the Asian population.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to (1) determine the prevalence of clinically diagnosed FH among AP-PCAD patients, (2) compare CRFs between AP-PCAD patients with control groups, and (3) identify the independent predictors of PCAD.

METHODS

AP-PCAD patients and FH patients without PCAD were recruited from Cardiology and Specialist Lipid Clinics. Subjects were divided into AP-PCAD with FH (G1), AP-PCAD without FH (G2), FH without PCAD (G3) and normal controls (G4). Medical records were collected from the clinic database and standardised questionnaires. FH was clinically diagnosed using Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 572 subjects were recruited (males:86.4%; mean±SD age: 55.6±8.5years). The prevalence of Definite, Potential and All FH among AP-PCAD patients were 6%(19/319), 16% (51/319) and 45.5% (145/319) respectively. G1 had higher central obesity, family history of PCAD and family history of hypercholesterolaemia compared to other groups. Among all subjects, diabetes [OR(95% CI): 4.7(2.9,7.7)], hypertension [OR(95% CI): 14.1(7.8,25.6)], FH [OR(95% CI): 2.9(1.5,5.5)] and Potential (Definite and Probable) FH [OR(95% CI): 4.5(2.1,9.6)] were independent predictors for PCAD. Among FH patients, family history of PCAD [OR(95% CI): 3.0(1.4,6.3)] and Definite FH [OR(95% CI): 7.1(1.9,27.4)] were independent predictors for PCAD.

CONCLUSION

Potential FH is common among AP-PCAD patients and contributes greatly to the AP-PCAD. FH-PCAD subjects have greater proportions of various risk factors compared to other groups. Presence of FH, diabetes, hypertension, obesity and family history of PCAD are independent predictors of PCAD. FH with PCAD is in very-high-risk category, hence, early management of modifiable CRFs in these patients are warranted.

Clinical Correlations of Lipid Profiles with the Age and Gender in the Coronary Artery Disease Patients: A Study of 3878 CAD Patients from India

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are crucial cause of death and hospitalization all over the world including India. The CVDs including the coronary artery disease (CAD) are developed by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Hyperlipidemia is a traditional risk factor for CVD.

AIM

The aim of this study was to study the clinical correlations of lipid profiles with the age and gender in the Coronary Artery Disease Patients: Methods: In this study, we have investigated the effect of age and sex on in lipid profile in 3878 (1171 females and 2707 males) CAD patients from India.

RESULTS

The plasma TG was higher in males than in females regardless of the age. Results showed that CAD female patients had significantly increased HDL-C than their aged matched males. Moreover, the plasma TC and LDL-C were significantly higher in males than females until age 40 years. Then after the age of 40 years, TC and LDL-C become significantly higher in females than in males. In addition, we found that more than 85% of CAD cases were <55 years old, and about 30% of CAD cases had normal lipid profile.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that elderly females are at a greater risk for CAD than males. Moreover, there were no significant differences in CVDs causes between nonelderly and elderly females. In addition, a higher percentage of cases were premature CAD, and 30% of CAD may be caused by loci that are not related to lipid metabolism.

Risk factors for premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) in adults: a systematic review protocol

PCAD possesses a public health challenge resulting in years of productive life lost and an escalating burden on health systems. Objective of this review is to compare modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for PCAD compared to those without PCAD. This review will include all comparative observational studies conducted in adults aged >18 years with confirmed diagnosis of PCAD (on angiography) compared to those without PCAD. Databases to be searched include; PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and grey literature (Google Scholar). All identified studies will be screened for title and abstract and full-text against the inclusion criteria on Covidence software. Data relevant to exposures and outcomes will be extracted from all included studies. All studies selected for data extraction will be critically appraised for methodological quality. Meta-analysis using random-effects model will be performed using Review Manager 5.3. Effect sizes for categorical risk factors will be expressed as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. For risk factors measured in continuous form, mean difference (if units are consistent) otherwise standardized mean difference (if units are different across studies) will be reported. Heterogeneity between studies will be assessed using I 2 test statistics. GRADE will be used to assess the certainty of the findings. Systematic review registration number:PROSPERO Registration # CRD42020173216.

Effectiveness of self-care program on the quality of life in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing cardiac rehabilitation: A Randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a life-threatening condition that causes physical and psychological disorders and decreases patients' quality of life (QoL). Performing proper educational self-care program may lead to higher QoL in these patients. This study was performed to investigate the effectiveness of a self-care educational program on QoL in patients with CAD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This semi-experimental study was performed on 60 patients with CAD referred to the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) center of Vali Asr hospital in Qom, Iran, in 2018-2019. Patients were divided into control and intervention groups by randomized sampling. The self-care educational program was provided through lectures and booklet. Data collection was done using the "demographic and clinical data questionnaire," and "Seattle Angina questionnaire." Questionnaires were completed in both groups, before and at least 1 month after education. Analysis of the obtained data was performed using SPSS software (version 25), central indexes, Mann-Whitney test, and Wilcoxon test.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between the two groups for demographics characteristics and quality of life before the intervention. Before the self-care program, the mean score of the QoL in the intervention and control group were 56.14 ± 9.75 and 58.46 ± 11.71, respectively. After that, the mean score of the QoL in the intervention and control group were 59.25 ± 10.56 and 59.7 ± 13.33, respectively. The statistical analysis showed significant differences in the mean scores of QoL in the intervention group before and after the intervention (P < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were seen in the control group before and after the study (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The self-care educational program improved the QoL in patients with CAD. Therefore, lectures and educational booklets should be considered by CR nurses.

Prevalence, Epidemiological Characteristics, and Pharmacotherapy of Coronary Artery Disease among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: Data from Jo-Fib Study

Background and Objectives: Patients with AF are at increased risk for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) owing to their shared etiologies and risk factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, cardiovascular risk factors, and used medications of CAD in AF patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, case-control study utilized data from the Jordanian Atrial Fibrillation (Jo-Fib) registry. Investigators collected clinical features, history of co-existing comorbidities, CHA2DS2-VASc, and HAS BLED scores for all AF patients aged >18 visiting 19 hospitals and 30 outpatient cardiology clinics. A multivariable binary logistic regression was used to asses for factors associated with higher odds of having CAD. Results: Out of 2000 patients with AF, 227 (11.35%) had CAD. Compared to the rest of the sample, those with CAD had significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (82.38%; p < 0.01), hypercholesterolemia (66.52%, p < 0.01), diabetes (56.83%, p < 0.01), and smoking (18.06%, p = 0.04). Patients with AF and CAD had higher use of anticoagulants/antiplatelet agents combination (p < 0.01) compared to the rest of the sample. Females had lower CAD risk than males (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24-0.50). AF Patients with dyslipidemia (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.8-3.4), smoking (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1-2.6), higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.4-1.7), and asymptomatic AF (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3-2.6) had higher risk for CAD. Conclusions: Owing to the increased prevalence of CAD in patients with AF, better control of cardiac risk factors is recommended for this special group. Future studies should investigate such interesting relationships to stratify CAD risk in AF patients. We believe that this study adds valuable information regarding the prevalence, epidemiological characteristics, and pharmacotherapy of CAD in patients with AF.

Dietary protein is the strong predictor of coronary artery disease; a data mining approach

BACKGROUNDS

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Diet is known to contribute to CAD risk, and the dietary intake of specific macro- or micro-nutrients might be potential predictors of CAD risk. Machine learning methods may be helpful in the analysis of the contribution of several parameters in dietary including macro- and micro-nutrients to CAD risk. Here we aimed to determine the most important dietary factors for predicting CAD.

METHODS

A total of 273 cases with more than 50% obstruction in at least one coronary artery and 443 healthy controls who completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) were entered into the study. All dietary intakes were adjusted for energy intake. The QUEST method was applied to determine the diagnosis pattern of CAD.

RESULTS

A total of 34 dietary variables obtained from the FFQ were entered into the initial study analysis, of these variables 23 were significantly associated with CAD according to t-tests. Of these 23 dietary input variables, adjusted protein, manganese, biotin, zinc and cholesterol remained in the model. According to our tree, only protein intake could identify the patients with coronary artery stenosis according to angiography from healthy participant up to 80%. The dietary intake of manganese was the second most important variable. The accuracy of the tree was 84.36% for the training dataset and 82.94% for the testing dataset.

CONCLUSION

Among several dietary macro- and micro-nutrients, a combination of protein, manganese, biotin, zinc and cholesterol could predict the presence of CAD in individuals undergoing angiography.

Demographic, clinical and angiographic profile of coronary artery disease in kurdistan region of Iraq

INTRODUCTION

The characters of coronary artery disease with its risk factors and coronary angiograms studied elsewhere revealed differences in different populations. We, here, assess the regional characters of coronary artery disease with its major risk factors and coronary angiographic profile in Duhok, Kurdistan region of Iraq.

METHODS

We conducted this cross sectional study at the Azadi heart center in Duhok, Iraq. A consecutive sampling procedure was used to enroll a total of 300 adult patients with coronary artery disease (145 men and 155 women) who had undergone coronary angiography. Direct interview was used with designed questionnaire to collect demographic, cardiovascular risk factors and angiographic profiles.

RESULTS

The mean patient's age was 55.5 (10.4) years. The most prevalent risk factor was hypertension (55.3%), followed by dyslipidemia (42.7%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (29%), smoking (11%) and ex-smoking (9.3%). Apart from smoking all other risk factors were more frequent in women. Angiographic analysis revealed normal angiograms in (29.3%) versus single vessel disease (23.3%), double vessel disease (14.3%), triple vessel disease (21.3%) and non significant (11.7%). As to the coronary branch involved, the most frequently affected was the left anterior descending artery followed by right coronary artery, left circumflex artery, and left main stem (60.7%, 46.3%, 43.7% and 6% respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the coronary artery disease tends to occur earlier in our population. Although cardiovascular risk factors were clustered among women, older men showed more aggressive coronary angiographic lesions.

Effect of ABCA1 promoter methylation on premature coronary artery disease and its relationship with inflammation

BACKGROUND

ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) plays a major role in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) metabolism and reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and exerts anti-inflammatory effects. Increased ABCA1 promoter methylation level may result in the progression of coronary artery disease. Thus, the present study investigated the association between promoter methylation status of ABCA1 and inflammation in the development of premature coronary artery disease (pCAD).

METHODS

PCAD patients and healthy individuals (n = 90 each) were recruited from the Characteristic Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force from June to December 2019. Using pyrosequencing, the levels of ABCA1 promoter methylation in their blood samples were evaluated. Serum concentrations of lipids, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), C-reactive protein (CRP), and circulating free DNA/Neutrophil extracellular traps (cfDNA/NETs) were also routinely measured and compared between the two groups. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The mean ABCA1 promoter methylation levels were significantly higher in the pCAD group than in the control group (44.24% ± 3.66 vs. 36.05% ± 2.99, P < 0.001). Based on binary logistic regression analysis, ABCA1 promoter methylation level was identified as an independent risk factor for pCAD development (odds ratio = 2.878, 95% confidence interval: 1.802-4.594, P < 0.001). Furthermore, ABCA1 promoter methylation levels were negatively correlated with HDL levels (r =  - 0.488, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with the levels of CRP, cfDNA/NETs, and IL-1β (r = 0.389, 0.404, 0.385, respectively; P < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that the serum levels of CRP, IL-1β, and cfDNA/NETs independently affect ABCA1 promoter methylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that high methylation levels at the ABCA1 promoter are associated with low HDL cholesterol levels and an increased risk of pCAD. Inflammatory factors and NETs may be involved in the progression of pCAD by affecting ABCA1 promoter methylation levels.

Risk Factor Burden and Long-Term Prognosis of Patients With Premature Coronary Artery Disease

Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is increasing among young adults. We aimed to describe the cardiovascular risk factors and long-term prognosis of premature CAD. Methods and Results Using the Duke Databank for Cardiovascular Disease, we evaluated 3655 patients admitted between 1995 and 2013 with a first diagnosis of obstructive CAD before the age of 50 years. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), defined as the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or revascularization, were ascertained for up to 10 years. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to assess associations with the rate of first recurrent event, and negative binomial log-linear regression was used for rate of multiple event recurrences. Past or current smoking was the most frequent cardiovascular factor (60.8%), followed by hypertension (52.8%) and family history of CAD (39.8%). Within a 10-year follow-up, 52.9% of patients had at least 1 MACE, 18.6% had at least 2 recurrent MACEs, and 7.9% had at least 3 recurrent MACEs, with death occurring in 20.9% of patients. Across follow-up, 31.7% to 37.2% of patients continued smoking, 81.7% to 89.3% had low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels beyond the goal of 70 mg/dL, and 16% had new-onset diabetes mellitus. Female sex, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, multivessel disease, and chronic inflammatory disease were factors associated with recurrent MACEs. Conclusions Premature CAD is an aggressive disease with frequent ischemic recurrences and premature death. Individuals with premature CAD have a high proportion of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, but failure to control them is frequently observed.

Comparing the association of cardiovascular nursing care with blood pressure and length of stay of in-patients with coronary artery disease in Wuhan, China

Background

Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Comorbidity-like hypertension has been among the major risks of coronary artery disease. Recent evidence identified multiple benefits of cardiovascular nursing care to coronary patients. However, little has been appraised on benefits regarding patients' blood pressure control and length of hospitalisation.

Objective

To compare the association of cardiovascular nursing care delivered to coronary artery patients with patients' blood pressure and length of stay.

Methods

Records based retrospective design was applied at a large teaching hospital in Wuhan, China. SPSS 21 version was used for data entry and analysis with univariate and multivariate logistic regression models for comparing study variables.

Results

Of 300 patients, 224 (74.7%) were known to be hypertensive and admitted with subnormal blood pressure. Cardiovascular nursing care like “assess to grade pain severity on 1–10 scale” and “counsel patient to cope with stress” were six and three times more likely to contribute improved patients' blood pressure (AOR=5.8; 95%CI: 2.8–12.2, p=0.001) and (AOR=3.1; 95%CI: 1.2–7.8, p=0.015) respectively. No significant difference with length of stay (p>0.05).

Conclusion

There is a possibility of coronary artery patients to recover with normal blood pressure following reception of evidence-based cardiovascular nursing care.

Genetic polymorphisms in early-onset myocardial infarction in a sample of Iraqi patients: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES

Early-onset myocardial infarction constitutes nearly one third of cases of myocardial infarction among Iraqis, which is rather higher than the proportions reported in many Western countries. Thus this study was initiated to investigate the role of some genetic polymorphisms, as well as acquired risk factors in this condition.

RESULTS

A total of 102 Iraqi patients with first myocardial infarction aged 50 years, and 77 matched controls were enrolled. The DNAs of participants were screened for nine polymorphisms, namely: β-Fibrinogen (- 455G > A), Factor XIII (V34L), Plasminogen Activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1, 4G/5G), Human Platelet Antigen-1 (HPA1a/b), 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase MTHFR (C677T) and MTHFR (A1298C), Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) 287 bp insertion/deletion (I/D), Apolipoprotein-B (ApoB: R3500Q), and Apolipoprotein-E (Apo E: E2/E3/E4), using PCR and reverse hybridization technique. Among traditional risk factors, univariate analysis revealed that smoking (OR 2.86 [95%CI 1.53-5.34]), hyperlipidemia (OR 5.23 [95%CI 2.66-10.29]), and diabetes mellitus (OR 4.05 [95% CI 1.57-10.41]) were significantly higher among patients compared to controls (P<0.001, <0.001 and 0.002 respectively), while none of the nine genetic polymorphisms reached significance. Multivariate Logistic regression, however, revealed that only smoking and hyperlipidemia retained significance (P of < 0.001 each). The need to initiate further studies on larger cohorts is paramount to understand the higher than expected frequency of early-onset myocardial infarction in our population.

Prevalence of poor lipid control in patients with premature coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lipid goals have become more stringent in high risk patients. However, no studies have analyzed lipid control defined as the composite achievement of goals in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Non-HDL-C) and apolipoproteinB-100 (ApoB-100), in patients with premature coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to analyze lipid control rates, and the associated factors with its poor achievement in patients with premature CAD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study included 1196 patients with CAD diagnosed before 55 and 65 years old in men and women, respectively. The American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology (non-strict) and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (strict) criteria were used to analyze lipid control rates. Sociodemographic, dietary-healthy and clinical characteristics of the patients were collected. Participants were 54 ± 8 years old, 19.7% were women, and median CAD evolution was 2.4 years. Non-strict and strict lipid control was achieved in 23.0% and 8.9% of the patients, respectively. Moreover, 46.5% and 62.8% of the patients did not achieve any lipid goal using both criteria. Sociodemographic data were not different among patients who achieved or not lipid control. Treatment adherence<85%, prescription of low- and moderate-intensity statins, and obesity were consistently associated with poor lipid control.

CONCLUSIONS

Lipid control is suboptimal in patients with premature CAD. Low lipid-lowering treatment adherence, low prescription of high-intensity statins, and obesity were independently associated with poor lipid control. Novel preventive programs and more aggressive pharmacological intervention should be implemented in order to reduce the burden of premature CAD.

Control of blood pressure levels in patients with premature coronary artery disease: Results from the Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study

High blood pressure (BP) is the major cardiovascular-risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), principally in young patients who have an important and increasing socioeconomic burden. Despite the Seventh Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC-7), recommended BP target <140/90 mm Hg for patients with stable CAD, in 2017 the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) updated BP target to <130/80 mm Hg. We aimed to analyze the prevalence of BP control in patients with premature CAD using both criteria. In addition, antihypertensive therapy, lifestyle, clinical, and sociodemographic characteristics of the patients were evaluated in order to identify factors associated with the achievement of BP targets. The present study included 1206 patients with CAD diagnosed before 55 and 65 years old in men and women, respectively. Sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected. The results indicate that 85.6% and 77.5% of subjects with premature CAD achieved JNC-7 non-strict and ACC/AHA strict BP target, respectively. Consistently, number of antihypertensive drugs and hypertension duration >10 years were inversely associated with BP targets, whereas total physical activity and smoking were directly associated with BP targets, regardless of BP criteria. Considering that age, gender, and hypertension duration are non-modifiable cardiovascular-risk factors, our results highlight the need for more effective strategies focused on increase physical activity and smoking cessation in young patients with CAD. These healthier lifestyles changes should favor the BP target achievement and reduce the socioeconomic and clinical burden of premature CAD.

Clinical Presentation, Quality of Care, Risk Factors and Outcomes in Women with Acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI): An Observational Report from Six Middle Eastern Countries

BACKGROUND

Most of the available literature on ST-Elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) in women was conducted in the developed world and data from Middle-East countries was limited.

AIMS

To examine the clinical presentation, patient management, quality of care, risk factors and inhospital outcomes of women with acute STEMI compared with men using data from a large STEMI registry from the Middle East.

METHODS

Data were derived from the third Gulf Registry of Acute Coronary Events (Gulf RACE-3Ps), a prospective, multinational study of adults with acute STEMI from 36 hospitals in 6 Middle-Eastern countries. The study included 2928 patients; 296 women (10.1%) and 2632 men (89.9%). Clinical presentations, management and in-hospital outcomes were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Women were 10 years older and more likely to have diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia compared with men who were more likely to be smokers (all p<0.001). Women had longer median symptom-onset to emergency department (ED) arrival times (230 vs. 170 min, p<0.001) and ED to diagnostic ECG (8 vs. 6 min., p<0.001). When primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) was performed, women had longer door-to-balloon time (DBT) (86 vs. 73 min., p=0.009). When thrombolytic therapy was not administered, women were less likely to receive PPCI (69.7 vs. 76.7%, p=0.036). The mean duration of hospital stay was longer in women (6.03 ± 22.51 vs. 3.41 ± 19.45 days, p=0.032) and the crude in-hospital mortality rate was higher in women (10.4 vs. 5.2%, p<0.001). However, after adjustments, multivariate analysis revealed a statistically non-significant trend of higher inhospital mortality among women than men (6.4 vs. 4.6%), (p=0.145).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that women in our region have almost double the mortality from STEMI compared with men. Although this can partially be explained by older age and higher risk profiles in women, however, correction of identified gaps in quality of care should be attempted to reduce the high morbidity and mortality of STEMI in our women.

Identification of U-shaped curve relation between proneurotensin and risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with premature CAD

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Neurotensin (NT) is a gut hormone with broad effects on the cardiovascular system. Recent data suggested that circulating proneurotensin (pro-NT)-the stable precursor fragment of NT-could independently predict cardiovascular artery disease (CAD) development. However, serum pro-NT levels in patients with premature cardiovascular artery disease (PCAD) are still unknown. This study aims to determine serum pro-NT levels in patients with PCAD and investigate its relationship with PCAD risk.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 490 subjects, including 364 with PCAD and 126 without PCAD (NPCAD), and 182 controls were enrolled in the study. Data of baseline clinical parameters and biochemical variables were collected. Serum pro-NT levels were measured by ELISA. Serum pro-NT levels were higher in patients with PCAD than in controls (59.42 ± 66.66 vs. 38.07 ± 48.48 pg/mL, P < 0.05), especially in patients with BMI<25 kg/m². Serum pro-NT levels were independently related to PCAD (β = 0.349, P < 0.001), and the association revealed a U-shaped curve characteristic between pro-NT tertiles and CAD risk in patients with premature CAD and controls. Subjects with low and high tertiles of pro-NT levels had 1.79-fold and 2.23-fold higher risks of PCAD, respectively, than subjects with median pro-NT levels (P < 0.05). After adjusting for age, gender, and BMI in Model 1 and other confounders in Model 2 and Model 3, the U-shaped relationship remained significant.

CONCLUSION

Serum pro-NT levels were significantly increased in patients with PCAD. The association between pro-NT levels and PCAD risk presents a U-shaped curve characteristic, which demonstrated that subjects with lower and higher pro-NT levels both were more likely to have PCAD.

Prevalence and characteristics of dual left anterior descending artery in adult patients undergoing coronary angiography

Aim: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of dual left anterior descending artery (LAD) in adults undergoing catheter coronary angiography. Materials & methods: We identified cases with dual LAD by retrospectively analyzing 3233 angiograms done from January 2017 to June 2019. Results: Dual LAD was seen in 22 patients (0.68%). We identified type I dual LAD in 14 cases, type II in 7 cases and type III in 1 case. Significant stenosis was seen in proximal part of long LAD in 12 cases, in LAD proper in 7 cases and in proximal part of short LAD in 4 cases. Conclusion: Dual LAD is a rare anomaly. Its sound knowledge is essential for proper management of patients with coronary artery disease.

Comparison of coronary risk factors and angiographic findings in younger and older patients with significant coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is uncommon among young adults and may have certain characteristics that are different from those in older patients. The aim of the current study was to determine the risk factors of CAD, important laboratory data and angiographic findings in young patients with CAD and to compare them with the old patients.

METHODS

Patients with typical chest pain whose CAD was confirmed by coronary angiography were included in the study. These patients were divided into 2 groups: ≥ 45 and < 45 years old; the risk factors of CAD and angiographic findings were determined in each group and further compared.

RESULTS

Finally, 231 patients with CAD were included in the study. Thirty-five (30.4%) of patients younger than 45 years and 58 (50.0%) aged ≥ 45 had diabetes mellitus (P = 0.002). Statistically remarkable differences were observed between the two groups regarding hypertension (P < 0.001), myocardial infarction (P < 0.001), Gensini score Median (P < 0.001), ejection fraction in echocardiography (P < 0.001) and fasting blood sugar in laboratory data (P = 0.006). The older group, compared with the younger one, had higher left anterior descending (LAD) artery (P < 0.001), right coronary artery (RCA) (P < 0.001), 3 vessel disease (P < 0.001) and 2-vessel disease (P = 0.044); on the other hand, 1-vessel disease was higher in patients aged < 45(P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The risk profile and angiographic findings are different in young patients with CAD compared to older patients. Young patients with CAD tend to be male with a positive familial history, but with less diabetes or hypertension. The older patients had higher 3 vessel disease, 2-vessel disease and left anterior descending (LAD) artery and right coronary artery (RCA) involvements. In contrast, 1-vessel disease was higher in young patients aged <45.

Risk factors of premature coronary artery disease in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the mean age at which coronary artery disease (CAD) hase decreased in recent years in Iran. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the prevalence of different risk factors of premature CAD (PCAD) in patients vs healthy individuals.

METHODS

Medline, Web of Science, Embase and Scientific Information Database were searched for studies about PCAD risk factors in Iran until 28 October 2017. Observational studies of Iranians, comparing risk factors between patients with PCAD and age- and sex-matched healthy subjects, were included. Fixed-effects and random-effects model were used for pooling data. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI and mean difference were used for effect size estimation among studies.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were eligible for meta-analysis. Diabetes mellitus (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.9-3.03; P = 0.0001, I²  = 25.5%; P = 0.2), family history of CAD (OR: 2.09, 95% CI: 1.22-3.6; P = 0.007, I²  = 86%; P = 0.0001), dyslipidaemia (OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.15-3.64; P = 0.01, I²  = 54%; P = 0.08), smoking (OR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.11-2.46; P = 0.01, I²  = 77.2%; P = 0.000) and hypertension (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.21 to-1.50; P < 0.001, I²  = 31%, P = 0.1) associated with PCAD. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that patients with PCAD had significantly lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and significantly higher levels of triglycerides compared to healthy subjects (MD: -2.56, 95% CI: -3.54 to -1.58, P < 0.001, I²  = 42%, P = 0.01 and MD: 21.17, 95% CI: 14.73-27.62, P < 0.001, I²  = 80.12%, P < 0.001, respectively). It should be noted that although high levels of heterogeneity in LDL and HDL values among the studies were observed, when dyslipidaemia was studied as a binary variable, no significant heterogeneity among studies was observed.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes mellitus, family history of CAD, dyslipidaemia, smoking, and hypertension were significantly and positively associated with CAD in young adults compared to healthy age- and sex-matched population in Iran.

Serum Zinc-α2-Glycoprotein Levels Were Decreased in Patients With Premature Coronary Artery Disease

Objectives: To explore serum zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) changes in patients with or without premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) and its association with several cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: A total of 3,364 patients who were undergone coronary angiography in Peking Union Medical College Hospital were screened. According to the degree of coronary artery stenosis, the number of 364 patients with PCAD (age <55 years in males and <65 years in females) and 126 age and gender matched patients without premature coronary artery disease (NPCAD) were recruited in our present study. In addition, 182 age and gender matched healthy controls were also enrolled. Serum ZAG levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results: Serum ZAG were significantly lower in the PCAD (8.03 ± 1.01 vs. 8.78 ± 1.89 μg/mL, p < 0.05) and NPCAD groups (8.28 ± 1.61 vs. 8.78 ± 1.89 μg/mL, p < 0.05), respectively, when compared with the controls. Multiple regression analysis showed that PCAD was independently associated with serum ZAG levels (B = -0.289, p = 0.002). The probability of PCAD in subjects with low tertile ZAG levels was 2.48-fold higher than those with high tertile levels after adjusting for other confounders [OR = 3.476, 95% CI 1.387-8.711, p = 0.008]. This phenomenon was more likely to be observed in male subjects with BMI <24 kg/m². The receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis showed a weak diagnostic performance of serum ZAG for PCAD (AUC = 0.659, 95% CI 0.612-0.705, p < 0.05). At the cutoff value of 7.955 μg/mL serum ZAG, the sensitivity and specificity for differentiating patients with PCAD from controls were 50.5 and 78.0%, respectively. The combination of ZAG with other clinical variables including age, gender, BMI, SBP, FBG, TC, HDL-C, Cr, and Urea had significantly improved the diagnosis accuracy with a sensitivity of 82.6%, a specificity of 95.0%, and AUC of 0.957 (95% CI, 0.940-0.975, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Serum ZAG levels were firstly found to be decreased in Chinese PCAD patients. Subjects with lower ZAG levels were more likely to have PCAD, especially for male subjects with BMI <24 kg/m². ZAG might be the potential diagnostic biomarkers for PCAD patients, and the combination of ZAG and clinical variables had higher discriminative performance.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha Gene Expression in PBMCs of Iranian Azeri Turkish Patients with Premature Coronary Artery Disease (Age .50 Years)

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of disability and mortality in Iran and worldwide. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a key role in inflammatory cascades and atherosclerosis. It regulates cytokine networks and adhesion molecule expression, and activates several signal transduction pathways, being also known as transducer of cardiovascular diseases, especially premature coronary artery disease.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate tumor necrosis factor-alpha gene expression in Iranian Azeri Turkish patients with premature coronary artery disease (age ≤50 years).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eighty four individuals (42 cases and 42 controls) were enrolled in the study. Total RNA was extracted from patients with premature coronary artery disease using RNX-Plus Solution (Cat. No.: RN7713C) and reverse transcribed into cDNA. The tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA expression level was evaluated using Real-Time PCR.

RESULTS

The mean ± SE of fold in cases and controls were 1.1±1.08 and 1.6±3.4, respectively. The mean expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA (fold) was not statistically different between the tested groups (P value 0.4).

OUTCOMES

Our outcome failed to find evidence for any association between tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA expression and premature coronary artery disease. Large scale, more detailed studies are further needed to prove our results and to propose other mechanisms in the pathophysiology of premature coronary artery disease.

Atherosclerotic disease is the predominant aetiology of acute coronary syndrome in young adults

Objectives

Few studies have evaluated young adults in their third and fourth decades with coronary artery disease (CAD). This study evaluated the clinical and angiographic profile of young adults (< 35 years) with CAD.

Methods

A 10-year (2003–2012) retrospective chart reviewwas performed on patients less than 35 years diagnosed withCAD at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban.

Results

Of the 100 patients who met the study criteria, the majority were male (90%), of Indian ethnicity (79%), and presented with acute coronary syndrome (93%). Smoking (82%), dyslipidaemia (79%) and dysglycaemia (75%) were the most prevalent risk factors. Almost half of the subjects (48%) met criteria for the metabolic syndrome. Angiographic findings revealed multi-vessel (42%), single-vessel (36%) and non-occlusive disease (20%); only two subjects had normal epicardial vessels. Disease severity was influenced by dyslipidaemia (p = 0.002) and positive family history (p = 0.002). Non-coronary aetiologies were identified in 19% of subjects.

Conclusions

Atherosclerotic disease associated with risk-factor clustering was highly prevalent in young adults with CAD.

An association between the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene G894T polymorphism and premature coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis

Previous epidemiological studies have suggested that genetic factors are more likely to influence the development of premature coronary artery disease (CAD) than disease in older patients. Several studies have evaluated the association between the G894T polymorphism located in an exon of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the risk of premature CAD. However, the findings were inconsistent. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis to clarify the association; we conducted both overall and subgroup analyses. Odds ratios and 95% confidence interval were calculated to evaluate the association between the G894T polymorphism and the risk of premature CAD. Overall analysis revealed a significant association. Subgroup analysis in terms of ethnicity revealed a significant association, in all models evaluated, between the G894T polymorphism and susceptibility to premature CAD in mixed population. In contrast, no such association was evident in Caucasians and Asians. On further subgroup analysis based on the premature CAD subtypes, we found that the G894T polymorphism was correlated with premature myocardial infarction (MI) but not with premature CAD without MI. In conclusion, we confirmed that the eNOS G894T polymorphism is a risk factor for premature CAD, particularly in those suffering premature MI.

Risk factors for coronary artery disease in patients undergoing elective coronary angiography in Jordan

Background

Unhealthy lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, inactivity and type 2 diabetes are endemic in the Middle East. The public health consequences might be detrimental; however, local studies on risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) are scarce.

Methods

Patients referred for coronary angiography at a tertiary hospital in Amman, Jordan, between January and December 2015, were included in this study. Risk factors for CAD were assessed in a multivariate logistic regression model, and presented as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Among 557 participants, 356 (63.9%) had CAD and 201 (36.1%) had a normal cardiogram. The majority (n = 395, 70.9%) were male, and median age was 55 years (interquartile range 47–64). Two-hundred-and-fifteen (38.6%) individuals reported previous diabetes, and 287 (51.5%) were current or previous smokers. In multivariate analysis, male gender (OR 3.7, 95% CI 2.3–6.0), age (45–54 years: OR 4.8, 95% CI 2.7–8.5; 55–64 years: OR 6.0, 95% CI 3.2–11.4; ≥65 years: OR 15.7, 95% CI 7.8–31.3), previous diabetes (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.7–4.1) and current/previous smoking (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3–3.4) were significant predictors of CAD.

Conclusions

Age, gender, diabetes and smoking were strong and significant risk factors for CAD in Jordan. Public health interventions to reduce the prevalence of smoking and diabetes are urgently needed.

Association between apolipoprotein E polymorphisms and premature coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although several studies have explored the genetic polymorphisms of apolipoprotein E (APOE) and their impact on premature coronary artery disease (PCAD), there is still some controversy regarding the significance of their association. Our aim is to estimate the association between APOE polymorphisms and PCAD via meta-analysis.

METHODS

All relevant case-control studies and cohort studies published in Chinese or English prior to March 2016 were searched for in electronic databases. Detailed information concerning each piece of literature was independently extracted by two researchers. We used STATA11.0 to process all data and to determine the pooled odds ratio (OR). Altogether, four genetic models were applied to calculate OR and 95% confidence interval (CI): (1) ε2 allele vs. ε3 allele; (2) ε2 carriers vs. ε3/3; (3) ε4 allele vs. ε3 allele; (4) ε4 carriers vs. ε3/3.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies concerning APOE polymorphisms and their impact on PCAD were included in the final analysis. The pooled analysis displayed that the ε2 allele and ε2 carriers increased the risk of PCAD significantly among Asians (OR 1.54; 95% CI, 1.09-2.17; OR 1.65; 1.10-2.47), while they showed protective effects on PCAD in Caucasians (OR 0.77; 95% CI, 0.62-0.95; OR 0.69; 0.54-0.89). Subjects with the ε4 allele and ε4 carriers showed significant associations with PCAD (OR 1.62; 95% CI, 1.27-2.06; OR 1.65; 1.27-2.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Our investigation supported the fact that the ε2 allele in APOE may appear as a risk factor for PCAD in Asians while a protective factor in Caucasians and that the ε4 allele acted as a genetic risk factor for PCAD.