Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Transcatheter Microwave and Radiofrequency Denervation in a Chronic Ovine Model.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter renal denervation (RDN) has had inconsistent efficacy and concerns for durability of denervation. We aimed to investigate long-term safety and efficacy of transcatheter microwave RDN in vivo in normotensive sheep in comparison to conventional radiofrequency ablation. METHODS AND RESULTS: Sheep underwent bilateral RDN, receiving 1 to 2 microwave ablations (maximum power of 80-120 W for 240 s-480 s) and 12 to 16 radiofrequency ablations (180 s-240 s) in the main renal artery in a paired fashion, alternating the side of treatment, euthanized at 2 weeks (acute N=15) or 5.5 months (chronic N=15), and compared with undenervated controls (N=4). Microwave RDN produced substantial circumferential perivascular injury compared with radiofrequency at both 2 weeks [area 239.8 (interquartile range [IQR] 152.0-343.4) mm2 versus 50.1 (IQR, 32.0-74.6) mm2, P <0.001; depth 16.4 (IQR, 13.9-18.9) mm versus 7.5 (IQR, 6.0-8.9) mm P <0.001] and 5.5 months [area 20.0 (IQR, 3.4-31.8) mm2 versus 5.0 (IQR, 1.4-7.3) mm2, P=0.025; depth 5.9 (IQR, 1.9-8.8) mm versus 3.1 (IQR, 1.2-4.1) mm, P=0.005] using mixed models. Renal denervation resulted in significant long-term reductions in viability of renal sympathetic nerves [58.9% reduction with microwave (P=0.01) and 45% reduction with radiofrequency (P=0.017)] and median cortical norepinephrine levels [71% reduction with microwave (P <0.001) and 72.9% reduction with radiofrequency (P <0.001)] at 5.5 months compared with undenervated controls. CONCLUSIONS: Transcatheter microwave RDN produces deep circumferential perivascular ablations without significant arterial injury to provide effective and durable RDN at 5.5 months compared with radiofrequency RDN.

Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation differences by sex - The role of arrest recognition.

PURPOSE: To assess whether bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) differed by patient sex among bystander-witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). METHODS: This study is a retrospective analysis of paramedic-attended OHCA in New South Wales (NSW) between January 2017 to December 2019 (restricted to bystander-witnessed cases). Exclusions included OHCA in aged care, medical facilities, with advance care directives, from non-medical causes. Multivariate logistic regression examined the association of patient sex with bystander CPR. Secondary outcomes were OHCA recognition, bystander AED application, initial shockable rhythm, and survival outcomes. RESULTS: Of 4,491cases, females were less likely to receive bystander CPR in private residential (Adjusted Odds ratio [AOR]: 0.82, 95%CI: 0.70-0.95) and public locations (AOR: 0.58, 95%CI:0.39-0.88). OHCA recognition during the emergency call was lower for females arresting in public locations (84.6% vs 91.6%, p = 0.002) and this partially explained the association of sex with bystander CPR (∼44%). This difference in recognition was not observed in private residential locations (p = 0.2). Bystander AED use was lower for females (4.8% vs 9.6%, p < 0.001); however, after adjustment for location and other covariates, this relationship was no longer significant (AOR: 0.83, 95%CI: 0.60-1.12). Females were less likely to be in an initial shockable rhythm (AOR: 0.52, 95%CI: 0.44-0.61), but more likely to survive the event (AOR: 1.34, 95%CI: 1.15-1.56). There was no sex difference in survival to hospital discharge (AOR: 0.96, 95%CI: 0.77-1.19). CONCLUSION: OHCA recognition and bystander CPR differ by patient sex in NSW. Research is needed to understand why this difference occurs and to raise public awareness of this issue.

Randomised Controlled Trial of a Customised Text Messaging and Activity Monitor Program for Lifestyle Improvement after Gestational Diabetes.

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is associated with a long-term risk of diabetes. We aimed to determine whether a text-messaging-based lifestyle support program would improve diabetes risk factors following GDM. Women with GDM were randomised following delivery to receive four text messages per week supporting a healthy lifestyle and parenting for 6 months, with feedback from an activity monitor (intervention), or to receive the activity monitor only (control). The primary outcome was a composite of weight, physical activity and dietary goals. There were 177 women randomised, with 88 intervention and 89 control participants. All the participants experienced COVID-19 lockdowns during the study. Six-month primary outcome data were obtained for 57 intervention participants and 56 controls. There were 7/57 (12%) intervention and 6/56 (11%) control participants who met the primary outcome (relative risk, 1.08; 95%CI, 0.63-1.85; p = 0.79). Two intervention participants met the dietary goals compared to none of the control participants (p = NS). The intervention participants were more likely to record >1000 steps/day (on 102 ± 59 vs. 81 ± 59 days, p = 0.03). When analysed monthly, this was not initially different but became significant 3-6 months post-partum. Interviews and surveys indicated that with the Intervention, healthier choices were made, but these were negatively impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. Participants found the messages motivational (74%) and the activity monitor useful (71%). In conclusion, no improvement in the diabetes risk factors occurred among the women receiving the text messaging intervention when affected by COVID-19 restrictions.

Therapeutic Inertia With Initial Low-Dose Quadruple Combination Therapy for Hypertension: Results From the QUARTET Trial.

BACKGROUND: Low-dose combinations are a promising intervention for improving blood pressure (BP) control but their effects on therapeutic inertia are uncertain. METHODS: Analysis of 591 patients randomized to an ultra-low-dose quadruple pill or initial monotherapy. The episode of therapeutic inertia was defined as a patient visit with a BP of >140/90 mm Hg without intensification of antihypertensive treatment. We compared the frequency of therapeutic inertia episodes between Quadpill and initial monotherapy as a proportion of the total population (intention-to-treat analysis with the denominator being all participants randomized) and as a proportion of people with uncontrolled BP (with the denominator being participants with uncontrolled BP). RESULTS: Therapeutic inertia occurred in fewer participants randomized to Quadpill compared with monotherapy. For example, among the 390 participants with a 6-month follow-up, therapeutic inertia according to unattended BP was 21/192 (11%) versus 45/192 (23%), P=0.002. There were similar rates of therapeutic inertia among those with uncontrolled unattended BP in each group (all P>0.4). Consistent observations were seen with the use of attended office BP measures. The major determinants of not intensifying treatment during follow-up were BP readings that were close to target and large improvements in BP compared with the previous visit. CONCLUSIONS: Among all treated individuals, low-dose Quadpill reduced the number of therapeutic inertia episodes compared with initial monotherapy. After the first follow-up visit, most high BP values did not lead to treatment intensification in both groups. Education is needed about the importance of treatment intensification despite a significant improvement in BP or BP being close to target. REGISTRATION: URL: https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=ACTRN12616001144404; Unique identifier: ACTRN12616001144404.

Ambulatory blood pressure after 12 weeks of quadruple combination of quarter doses of blood pressure medication vs. standard medication.

BACKGROUND: A combination of four ultra-low-dose blood pressure (BP) medications lowered office BP more effectively than initial monotherapy in the QUARTET trial. The effects on average ambulatory BP changes at 12 weeks have not yet been reported in detail. METHODS: Adults with hypertension who were untreated or on monotherapy were eligible for participation. Overall, 591 participants were randomized to either the quadpill (irbesartan 37.5 mg, amlodipine 1.25 mg, indapamide 0.625 mg, and bisoprolol 2.5 mg) or monotherapy control (irbesartan 150 mg). The difference in 24-h, daytime, and night-time systolic and diastolic ambulatory BP at 12 weeks along further metrics were predefined secondary outcomes. RESULTS: Of 576 participants, 289 were randomized to the quadpill group and 287 to the monotherapy group. At 12 weeks, mean 24-h ambulatory SBP and DBP were 7.7 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 9.6-5.8] and 5.3 (95% CI: 6.5-4.1) mmHg lower in the quadpill vs. monotherapy group ( P  < 0.001 for both). Similar reductions in the quadpill group were observed for daytime (8.1/5.7 mmHg lower) and night-time (6.3/4.0 mmHg lower) BP at 12 weeks (all P  < 0.001) compared to monotherapy. The rate of BP control (24-h average BP < 130/80 mmHg) at 12 weeks was higher in the quadpill group (77 vs. 50%; P  < 0.001). The reduction in BP load was also more pronounced with the quadpill. CONCLUSION: A quadruple quarter-dose combination compared with monotherapy resulted in greater ambulatory BP lowering across the entire 24-h period with higher ambulatory BP control rates and reduced BP variability at 12 weeks. These findings further substantiate the efficacy of an ultra-low-dose quadpill-based BP lowering strategy.

Primary care management post gestational diabetes in Australia.

BACKGROUND: Women with a history of gestational diabetes (GD) have a high risk of developing diabetes and subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD). AIM: To assess whether diabetes screening and CVD risk screening occurred in general practice (GP) among postpartum women with GD. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of clinical record data of women with GD, under active GP management, from the MedicineInsight programme, run by Australia's National Prescribing Service MedicineWise, with GP sites located in Australia from January 2015 to March 2021. Documentation of screening for diabetes, assessment of lipids and measurement of blood pressure (BP) was assessed using proportions and mixed-effects logistic regression with a log follow-up time offset. RESULTS: There were 10 413 women, with a mean age of 37.9 years (standard deviation, 7.6), from 406 clinics with a mean follow-up of 4.6 years (interquartile range, 1.8-6.2 years) A total of 29.41% (3062/10 413; 95% confidence interval [CI], 28.53-30.28) had not been assessed for diabetes, 37.40% (3894/10 413; 95% CI, 36.47-38.32) were not assessed for lipids and 2.19% (228/10 413; 95% CI, 1.91-2.47) had no BP documented. In total, 51.82% (5396/10 413; 95% CI, 50.86-52.78) were screened for all three (diabetes + lipids + BP) at least once. Obesity, comorbidities and dyslipidaemia were associated with increased likelihood of screening. New diabetes diagnosis was documented in 5.73% (597/10 413; 95% CI, 5.29-6.18) of the cohort. CONCLUSION: Screening for diabetes and hyperlipidaemia was suboptimal in this high-risk cohort of women with prior GD. Improved messaging that women with a GD diagnosis are at high cardiovascular risk may improve subsequent screening.

Left atrial mechanics evaluated by two-dimensional strain analysis: alterations in essential hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a cardiovascular risk factor that predisposes to cardiac structural alterations namely increased left ventricular (LV) wall thickness, reduced LV compliance and diastolic dysfunction, with consequent left atrial (LA) dilation and functional impairment. In this article, we evaluated differences in left atrial structure and function using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with hypertension compared with controls. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 208 hypertensive patients and 157 controls who underwent a comprehensive transthoracic echocardiogram. Patients with hypertension were stratified by the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). RESULTS: Non-LVH hypertension patients had lower left atrial reservoir strain (LAS RES ) (34.78 ±â€Š29.78 vs. 29.78 ±â€Š6.08; P  = 0.022) and conduit strain (LAS CD ) (19.66 ±â€Š7.29 vs. 14.23 ±â€Š4.59; P  = 0.014) vs. controls despite similar left atrial volumes (LAV) . Left atrial contractile strain (LAS CT ) was not significantly different between non-LVH hypertension patients and controls (15.12 ±â€Š3.77 vs. 15.56 ±â€Š3.79; P  = 0.601). Left atrial mechanical dispersion was significantly higher in the LVH group compared with the non-LVH hypertension group (42.26 ±â€Š13.01 vs. 50.06 ±â€Š14.95; P  = 0.009). In multivariate regression analysis, LVH correlated with left atrial mechanical dispersion ( P  = 0.016). An age-hypertension interaction independently correlated with LAS CT ( P  < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Hypertension results in functional left atrial changes even before development of LV hypertrophy and structural left atrial changes with increased left atrial volume. We demonstrate both a likely hypertension-associated left atrial myopathy that prevents age-related compensatory increase in left atrial contractile function, and impact of LVH in hypertension on left atrial dyssynchrony.

Ultra-processed foods and incident cardiovascular disease and hypertension in middle-aged women.

PURPOSE: Ultra-processed food (UPF) intake has increased in recent decades, yet limited knowledge of long-term effects on cardiovascular health persists and sex-specific data is scant. We determined the association of UPF intake with incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) and/or hypertension in a population-based cohort of women. METHODS: In the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, women aged 50-55 years were prospectively followed (2001-2016). UPFs were identified using NOVA classification and contribution of these foods to total dietary intake by weight was estimated. Primary endpoint was incident CVD (self-reported heart disease/stroke). Secondary endpoints were self-reported hypertension, all-cause mortality, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and/or obesity. Logistic regression models assessed associations between UPF intake and incident CVD, adjusting for socio-demographic, medical comorbidities, and dietary variables. RESULTS: We included 10,006 women (mean age 52.5 ± 1.5; mean UPF intake 26.6 ± 10.2% of total dietary intake), with 1038 (10.8%) incident CVD, 471 (4.7%) deaths, and 4204 (43.8%) hypertension cases over 15 years of follow-up. In multivariable-adjusted models, the highest [mean 42.0% total dietary intake] versus the lowest [mean 14.2% total dietary intake] quintile of UPF intake was associated with higher incident hypertension [odds ratio (OR) 1.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-1.74; p = 0.005] with a linear trend (ptrend = 0.02), but not incident CVD [OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.92-1.61; p = 0.16] or all-cause mortality (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.54-1.20; p = 0.28). Similar results were found after multiple imputations for missing values. CONCLUSION: In women, higher UPF intake was associated with increased hypertension, but not incident CVD. These findings may support minimising UPFs within a healthy diet for women.

Clinician-Created Video Education for Patients With AF: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Patient education is a critical aspect of atrial fibrillation (AF) management. However, there is limited time to provide effective patient education during routine care, and resources available online are of variable quality. Objective: To determine whether clinician-led creation of video-based AF education is feasible and improves knowledge of AF. Design, Setting, and Participants: This single-center randomized clinical trial was conducted between 2020 and 2022. Outcomes were assessed prior to their clinic visit and 2 and 90 days after the visit by blinded assessors. Participants included adults with AF and congestive heart failure, hypertension, age at least 75 years (doubled), diabetes, prior stroke or transient ischemic attack or thromboembolism (doubled), vascular disease, age 65 to 74 years, and sex category scores of 1 or greater presenting for routine care at publicly funded outpatient cardiology clinics within a tertiary teaching hospital. Individuals too unwell to participate or with limited English were excluded. Data were assessed as intention to treat and analyzed from December 2022 to October 2023. Intervention: Intervention participants viewed a series of 4 videos designed and narrated by clinicians that aimed to improve understanding of AF pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management. After viewing the videos, participants received weekly email links to review the videos. The control group received usual care. Main Outcomes and Measures: The prospectively selected primary outcome was AF knowledge at 90 days, measured by the validated Jessa Atrial Fibrillation Knowledge Questionnaire (JAFKQ). Results: Among 657 individuals screened, 208 adults with AF were randomized (mean [SD] age, 65.0 [12.2] years; 133 [65.2%] male) and included in analysis. Participants were randomized 1-to-1, with 104 participants in the control group and 104 participants in the video intervention group. At 90 days after the baseline clinic visit, intervention participants were more likely to correctly answer JAFKQ questions than control participants (odds ratio [OR], 1.23 [95% CI, 1.01-1.49]). The difference was greater in participants who remotely accessed videos on 3 or more occasions during the study (OR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.14-1.88]). Conclusions and Relevance: In this randomized clinical trial of patients with AF, remotely delivered, clinician-created video education improved medium-term AF knowledge beyond usual care of standard in-clinic education. The improvement demonstrated in this study provides support for the implementation of clinician-created educational resources across the care continuum. Further work is needed to assess for impact on clinical outcomes. Trial Registration: anzctr.org.au Identifier: ANZCTRN12620000729921.

Regional and temporal variations of spontaneous coronary artery dissection care according to consensus recommendations: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIM: The first expert consensus documents on management of patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) were published in 2018. Worldwide quality of care, as measured by adherence to these recommendations, has not been systematically reviewed. We aim to review the proportion of patients with SCAD receiving consensus recommendations globally, regionally and, determine differences in practice before and after 2018. METHODS AND RESULTS: A systematic review was performed by searching four main databases (Medline, Embase, SCOPUS, CINAHL) from their inception to 16 June 2022. Studies were selected if they included patients with SCAD and reported at least one of the consensus document recommendations. 53 studies, n=8456 patients (mean 50.1 years, 90.6% female) were included. On random effects meta-analysis, 92.1% (95% CI 89.3 to 94.8) received at least one antiplatelet, 78.0% (CI 73.5 to 82.4) received beta-blockers, 58.7% (CI 52.3 to 65.1) received ACE inhibitors or aldosterone receptor blockers (ACEIs/ARBs), 54.4% (CI 45.4 to 63.5) were screened for fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), and 70.2% (CI 60.8 to 79.5) were referred to cardiac rehabilitation. Except for cardiac rehabilitation referral and use of ACEIs/ARBs, there was significant heterogeneity in all other quality-of-care parameters, across geographical regions. No significant difference was observed in adherence to recommendations in studies published before and after 2018, except for lower cardiac rehabilitation referrals after 2018 (test of heterogeneity, p=0.012). CONCLUSION: There are significant variations globally in the management of patients with SCAD, particularly in FMD screening. Raising awareness about consensus recommendations and further prospective evidence about their effect on outcomes may help improve the quality of care for these patients.

Lifestyle changes and quality of life a year after attending Rapid Access Cardiology Clinics: an observational study.

We examined behavioural risk factors and quality of life (QoL) in women and men, younger and older adults 12 months after a Rapid Access Cardiology Clinic (RACC) visit. Routine clinical care data were collected in person from three Sydney hospitals between 2017 and 2018 and followed up by questionnaire at 365 days. 1491 completed the baseline survey, at 1 year, 1092 provided follow-up data on lifestyle changes, and 811 completed the EQ-5D-5L (QoL) survey. 666 (44.7%) were women, and 416 (27.9%) were older than 60 years of age. Almost 50% of participants reported improving physical activity and diet a year after their RACC visit. These changes were less likely in women and older participants.

Patients' perspective of quality-of-care and its correlation to quality-of-life following spontaneous coronary artery dissection.

AIM: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an under-recognised cause of myocardial infarction. We aimed to investigate SCAD survivors' perceptions of their quality-of-care and its relationship to quality-of-life. METHODS AND RESULTS: An anonymous survey was distributed online to SCAD survivors involved in Australian SCAD support groups, with 172 (95.3% female, mean age 52.6 ± 9.2 years) participants in the study. The survey involved assessment of quality-of-life using a standardised questionnaire (EQ-5DTM-3L). Respondents rated the quality-of-care received during their hospital admission for SCAD a median 8/10 [interquartile range (IQR) 7-10]. Respondents ≤50 years versus >50 years were more likely to perceive that their symptoms were not treated seriously as a myocardial infarction (χ2 = 4.127, df = 1, p < 0.05). Participants rated clinician's knowledge of SCAD a median 4/10 (IQR 2-8) and 7/10 (IQR 3-9) for Emergency and Cardiology clinicians, respectively (p < 0.05). The internet was the most selected source (45.4%) of useful SCAD information. The mean EQ-5DTM summary index was 0.79 (population norm 0.87). 47.2% of respondents reported a mental health condition diagnosis, with 36% of these diagnosed after their admission with SCAD. Quality-of-life was significantly associated with perceived quality-of-care: EQ-5DTM index/(1-EQ-5DTM index) increased by 13% for each unit increase in quality-of-care after adjusting for age and comorbidities (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: While SCAD survivors rated their overall hospital care highly, healthcare providers' knowledge of SCAD was perceived to be poor and, the most common source of SCAD information was the internet. Mental health conditions were common, and a significant association was observed between perceived quality-of-care and SCAD survivors' quality-of-life.

Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Women With Pregnancy-Related Risk Factors: A Prospective Women's Heart Clinic Study.

Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, and having a small-for-gestational-age baby are known to substantially increase a woman's risk of cardiovascular disease. Despite this, evidence for models of care that mitigate cardiovascular disease risk in women with these pregnancy-related conditions is lacking. Methods and Results A 6-month prospective cohort study assessed the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary Women's Heart Clinic on blood pressure and lipid control in women aged 30 to 55 years with a past pregnancy diagnosis of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, or a small-for-gestational age baby in Melbourne, Australia. The co-primary end points were (1) blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg or <130/80 mm Hg if diabetes and (2) total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio <4.5. The study recruited 156 women with a mean age of 41.0±4.2 years, 3.9±2.9 years from last delivery, 68.6% White, 20.5% South/East Asian, and 80.5% university-educated. The proportion meeting blood pressure target increased (69.2% to 80.5%, P=0.004), with no significant change in lipid targets (80.6% to 83.7%, P=0.182). Systolic blood pressure (-6.9 mm Hg [95% CI, -9.1 to -4.7], P<0.001), body mass index (-0.6 kg/m2 [95% CI, -0.8 to -0.3], P<0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-4.2 mg/dL [95% CI, -8.2 to -0.2], P=0.042), and total cholesterol (-4.6 mg/dL [95% CI, -9.1 to -0.2] P=0.042) reduced. Heart-healthy lifestyle significantly improved with increased fish/olive oil (36.5% to 51.0%, P=0.012), decreased fast food consumption (33.8% to 11.0%, P<0.001), and increased physical activity (84.0% to 92.9%, P=0.025). Conclusions Women at high risk for cardiovascular disease due to past pregnancy-related conditions experienced significant improvements in multiple cardiovascular risk factors after attending a Women's Heart Clinic, potentially improving long-term cardiovascular disease outcomes. Registration URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au; Unique identifier: ACTRN12622000646741.

Cost-effectiveness of ultra-low-dose quadruple combination therapy for high blood pressure.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of a quadpill containing irbesartan 37.5 mg, amlodipine 1.25 mg, indapamide 0.625 mg and bisoprolol 2.5 mg in comparison with irbesartan 150 mg for people with hypertension who are either untreated or receiving monotherapy. METHODS: We conducted a within-trial and modelled economic evaluation of the Quadruple UltrA-low-dose tReaTment for hypErTension trial. The analysis was preplanned, and medications and health service use captured during the trial. The main outcomes were incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for cost per mm Hg systolic blood pressure (BP) reduction at 3 months, and modelled cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) over a lifetime. RESULTS: The within-trial analysis showed no clear difference in cost per mm Hg BP lowering between randomised treatments at 3 months ($A10 (95% uncertainty interval (UI) $A -18 to $A37) per mm Hg per person) for quadpill versus monotherapy. The modelled cost-utility over a lifetime projected a mean incremental cost of $A265 (95% UI $A166 to $A357) and a mean 0.02 QALYs gained (95% UI 0.01 to 0.03) per person with quadpill therapy compared with monotherapy. Quadpill therapy was cost-effective in the base case (ICER of $A14 006 per QALY), and the result was sensitive to the quadpill cost in one-way sensitivity analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Quadpill in comparison with monotherapy is comparably cost-effective for short-term BP lowering. In the long-term, quadpill therapy is likely to be cost-effective. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ANZCTRN12616001144404.

Examining training and attitudes to basic life support in multi-ethnic communities residing in New South Wales, Australia: A mixed-methods investigation.

BACKGROUND: Bystander response, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), is critical to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival. Nearly 30% of Australian residents were born overseas, and little is known about their preparedness to perform CPR. In this mixed-methods study, we examined rates of training and willingness and barriers to performing CPR among immigrants in Australia. METHODS: First, we surveyed residents in New South Wales, Australia, using purposeful sampling to enrich immigrant populations. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between place of birth and willingness to perform CPR. Next, we conducted focus-group discussions with members of the region's largest migrant groups to explore barriers and relevant societal or cultural factors. RESULTS: Of the 1267 survey participants (average age 49.6 years, 52% female), 60% were born outside Australia, most in Asia and 73% had lived in Australia for more than 10 years. Higher rates of previous CPR training were reported among Australian-born participants compared with South Asian-born and East Asian-born (77%, 35%, 48%, respectively, p <0.001). In adjusted models, the odds of willingness to perform CPR on a stranger were significantly lower among migrants than Australian-born (adjusted OR: 0.64; 95% CI 0.49 to 0.83); however, this association was mediated by history of training. Themes emerging from the focus-group discussions included concerns about causing harm, fear of liability, and birthplace-specific social and cultural barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Targeted awareness and training interventions, which address common and culture-specific barriers to response and improved access to training, may improve confidence and willingness to respond to OHCA in multi-ethnic communities.

Factors influencing blood pressure control in patients with atrial fibrillation and hypertension in Australian primary care.

OBJECTIVE: This study explored factors that may influence blood pressure (BP) control in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) with hypertension. METHODS: Cross-sectional retrospective analysis of the MedicineInsight database which includes de-identified electronic health records from general practices (GPs) across Australia. BP control was assessed in patients with diagnosed AF and hypertension (controlled BP defined as <140/90 mm Hg). We explored BP control, factors influencing BP control and likelihood of receiving guideline-recommended treatment. RESULTS: 34 815 patients with AF and hypertension were included; mean age was 76.9 (10.2 SD) years and 46.2% were female. 38.0% had uncontrolled BP. Women (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.68, 0.76; p<0.001) and adults ≥75 years (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.70, 0.86; p<0.001) were less likely to have controlled BP. Greater continuity of care (CoC; that is, visits with the same clinician) and having frequent GP visits were associated with higher odds of controlled BP (model 1: CoC, OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.20, 1.40, p<0.001; GP visits, OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.58, 1.85, p<0.001) and a greater likelihood of being prescribed ≥2 types of BP-lowering medicines (model 2: CoC, OR 1.12; 95% CI 1.03, 1.23; p=0.011; GP visits, OR 1.80; 95% CI 1.63, 1.98; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Uncontrolled BP was more likely in women and adults ≥75 years. Patients who had frequent GP visits with the same clinician were more likely to have BP controlled and receive guideline-recommended antihypertensive treatment. This suggests that targeting these primary care factors could potentially improve BP control and subsequently reduce stroke risk in patients with AF.

Optimizing electrophysiology studies to prevent sudden cardiac death after myocardial infarction.

AIMS: This study assessed associations of minimum final extrastimulus coupling interval utilized within electrophysiology study (EPS) after myocardial infarction (MI) and possible site of origin of induced ventricular tachycardia (VT) with long-term occurrence of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia and long-term survival. METHODS AND RESULTS: This prospective study recruited consecutive patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% who underwent EPS days 3-5 after MI between 2004 and 2017. Positive EPS was defined as sustained monomorphic VT cycle length ≥200 ms for ≥10 s or shorter duration if haemodynamic compromise occurred. Each of the four extrastimuli was shortened by 10 ms at a time, until it failed to capture the ventricle (ventricular refractoriness) or induced ventricular tachyarrhythmia. Outcomes included spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia occurrence and all-cause mortality. Shorter coupling interval length of final extrastimulus that induced VT was associated with higher risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia (P < 0.001). Significantly higher rates of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia (65.2% vs. 23.2%; P < 0.001) were observed for final coupling interval at EPS <200 ms vs. >200 ms. Right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology of induced VT, with possible site of origin from the left ventricle, was associated with all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 3.2, P = 0.044] and a composite of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia recurrence or mortality (HR 1.8, P = 0.043). CONCLUSION: Ventricular tachycardia induced with shorter coupling intervals was associated with higher risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythymia on follow-up, indicating that the final extrastimulus coupling interval at EPS early after MI should be determined by ventricular refractoriness. Induced VT with possible origin from left ventricle was associated with increased risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia recurrence or death.

Public attitudes towards automated external defibrillators: results of a survey in the Australian general population.

Background: Swift defibrillation by lay responders using automated external defibrillators (AEDs) increases survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). This study evaluated newly designed yellow-red vs. commonly used green-white signage for AEDs and cabinets and assessed public attitudes to using AEDs during OHCA. Methods: New yellow-red signage was designed to enable easy identification of AEDs and cabinets. A prospective, cross-sectional study of the Australian public was conducted using an electronic, anonymised questionnaire between November 2021 and June 2022. The validated net promoter score investigated public engagement with the signage. Likert scales and binary comparisons evaluated preference, comfort and likelihood of using AEDs for OHCA. Results: The yellow-red signage for AED and cabinet was preferred by 73.0% and 88%, respectively, over the green-white counterparts. Only 32% were uncomfortable with using AEDs, and only 19% indicated a low likelihood of using AEDs in OHCA. Conclusion: The majority of the Australian public surveyed preferred yellow-red over green-white signage for AED and cabinet and indicated comfort and likelihood of using AEDs in OHCA. Steps are necessary to standardise yellow-red signage of AED and cabinet and enable widespread availability of AEDs for public access defibrillation.

Effect of Mobile Phone Text Messaging Self-Management Support for Patients With Diabetes or Coronary Heart Disease in a Chronic Disease Management Program (SupportMe) on Blood Pressure: Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Maintaining engagement and support for patients with chronic diseases is challenging. SMS text messaging programs have complemented patient care in a variety of situations. However, such programs have not been widely translated into routine care. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine the implementation and utility of a customized SMS text message-based support program for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), coronary heart disease, or both within a chronic disease integrated care program. METHODS: We conducted a 6-month pragmatic parallel-group, single-blind randomized controlled trial that recruited people with T2D or coronary heart disease. Intervention participants received 4 semipersonalized SMS text messages per week providing self-management support to supplement standard care. Preprogrammed algorithms customized content based on participant characteristics, and the messages were sent at random times of the day and in random order by a fully automated SMS text messaging engine. Control participants received standard care and only administrative SMS text messages. The primary outcome was systolic blood pressure. Evaluations were conducted face to face whenever possible by researchers blinded to randomization. Participants with T2D were evaluated for glycated hemoglobin level. Participant-reported experience measures were evaluated using questionnaires and focus groups and summarized using proportions and thematic analysis. RESULTS: A total of 902 participants were randomized (n=448, 49.7% to the intervention group and n=454, 50.3% to the control group). Primary outcome data were available for 89.5% (807/902) of the participants. At 6 months, there was no difference in systolic blood pressure between the intervention and control arms (adjusted mean difference=0.9 mm Hg, 95% CI -1.1 to 2.1; P=.38). Of 642 participants with T2D, there was no difference in glycated hemoglobin (adjusted mean difference=0.1%, 95% CI -0.1% to 0.3%; P=.35). Self-reported medication adherence was better in the intervention group (relative risk=0.82, 95% CI 0.68-1.00; P=.045). Participants reported that the SMS text messages were useful (298/344, 86.6%) and easily understood (336/344, 97.7%) and motivated change (217/344, 63.1%). The lack of bidirectional messaging was identified as a barrier. CONCLUSIONS: The intervention did not improve blood pressure in this cohort, possibly because of high clinician commitment to improved routine patient care as part of the chronic disease management program as well as favorable baseline metrics. There was high program engagement, acceptability, and perceived value. Feasibility as part of an integrated care program was demonstrated. SMS text messaging programs may supplement chronic disease management and support self-care. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616001689460; https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=371769&isReview=true. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025923.