Sex-Related Disparities in Cardiovascular Outcomes Among Older Adults With Late-Onset Hypertension.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether sex-based differences in cardiovascular outcomes exist in late-onset hypertension. METHODS: This is a population-based cohort study in Ontario, Canada of 266 273 adults, aged ≥66 years with newly diagnosed hypertension. We determined the incidence of the primary composite cardiovascular outcome (myocardial infarction, stroke, and congestive heart failure), all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular death by sex using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for demographic factors and comorbidities. RESULTS: The mean age of the total cohort was 74 years, and 135 531 (51%) were female. Over a median follow-up of 6.6 (4.7-9.0) years, females experienced a lower crude incidence rate (per 1000 person-years) than males for the primary composite cardiovascular outcome (287.3 versus 311.7), death (238.4 versus 251.4), and cardiovascular death (395.7 versus 439.6), P<0.001. The risk of primary composite cardiovascular outcome was lower among females (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.73-0.76]; P<0.001) than in males. This was consistent after adjusting for the competing risk of all-cause death with a subdistributional hazard ratio, 0.88 ([95% CI, 0.86-0.91]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Females had a lower risk of cardiovascular outcomes compared with males within a population characterized by advanced age and new hypertension. Our results highlight that the severity of outcomes is influenced by sex in relation to the age at which hypertension is diagnosed. Further studies are required to identify sex-specific variations in the diagnosis and management of late-onset hypertension due to its high incidence in this group.

[Gender-specific differences in cardiology]. / Geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede in der Kardiologie.

BACKGROUND: Evidence in cardiovascular patient care is currently skewed to the disadvantage of women. This article provides a summary of the current state of knowledge on gender differences with a special focus on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors and treatment of the most frequent cardiovascular diseases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Evaluation and discussion of background research and expert recommendations. RESULTS: The necessity for a gender-specific analysis of results is a relatively recent development in clinical trials. There is increasing evidence for pathogenic mechanisms specific for women as well as pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic differences between women and men. Women are currently less likely to receive treatment for cardiac diseases according to medical guidelines than men. CONCLUSION: For improvement of the treatment options and effective disease prevention, it is pivotal to investigate pathogenetic mechanisms specific to women.

Mortality attributable to cardiovascular diseases in young adults residents in Brazil / Mortalidade atribuível às doenças cardiovasculares em adultos jovens residentes no Brasil

Introdução: doenças Cardiovasculares são as principais causas de morte no mundo. Apesar da redução da incidência e mortalidade por DCV no século XX, os valores permanecem elevados no século XXI. No Brasil, há lacuna de estudos populacionais que estimaram as taxas padronizadas de mortalidade por doenças cardiovasculares em adultos jovens.Objetivo: avaliar a tendência da mortalidade por doenças cardiovasculares em adultos jovens, segundo sexo, faixa etária e regiões do Brasil.Método: estudo de séries temporais com uso de dados secundários oficiais dos Sistemas de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM). Foram consideradas todas as mortes por doenças cardiovasculares (I00-I-99) em adultos jovens faixa etária 20-49 anos, residentes no Brasil, no período de 01 de janeiro de 2008 a 31 de dezembro de 2017. Os dados foram extraídos do Departamento de Informática do SUS (DATASUS). Foi utilizado o modelo de regressão Prais-Winsten e calculada a Variação Percentual Anual (VPA). Todas as análises foram realizadas no software STATA 14.0.Resultados: durante período 2008-2017, foram identificadas 294.232 mortes (8,7%) por doença cardiovascular em adultos jovens com idade entre 20-49 anos. Identificou-se a redução da mortalidade por DCV em todas as regiões do Brasil, exceto nos indivíduos de 20-24 anos, residentes na região Nordeste, a qual apresentou aumento (VPA: 2,45%) (p<0,05) 2013-2017. A maior variação da tendência de mortalidade ocorreu na região Sul (VPA: -25,2%). Enquanto a menor variação de tendência da mortalidade ocorreu na região Nordeste (VPA: -8,8%). O declínio anual foi menor no segundo quinquênio (2013-2017) em comparação ao primeiro (2008-2012). Além disso, o declínio foi mais acentuado entre as mulheres (VPA: -2,51%) (p<0,05) 2008-2012 e em adultos jovens com idade entre 40-44 anos (VPA: -2,91%) (p<0,05) 2008-2012. Ademais, a tendência de mortalidade por DCV se estabilizou a partir de 2013 no sexo masculino (p>0,05).Conclusão: os resultados demonstram tendência decrescente da mortalidade por Doença Cardiovascular em adultos jovens no Brasil, entre 2008-2017. Conclui-se que existe desigualdade na tendência de mortalidade por DCV segundo sexo, faixa etária e regiões do Brasil.

Introduction: cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in the world. Despite the reduction in CVD incidence and mortality in the 20th century, the values remain high in the 21st century. In Brazil, there is a gap in population studies that estimated standardized mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases in young adults.Objective: to assess the trend in mortality from cardiovascular diseases in young adults, according to sex, age group and regions of Brazil.Methods: ecological time series study using official secondary data from Mortality Information Systems (SIM). All deaths from cardiovascular diseases (I00-I-99) in young adults aged 20-49 years, residing in Brazil, in the period from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2017, were considered. Data were extracted from the Department of Informatics of the SUS (DATASUS). The Prais-Winsten regression model was used and the Annual Percentage Variation (APV) was calculated. All analyzes were performed in STATA 14.0 software.Results: during the period 2008-2017, 294,232 deaths (8.7%) from cardiovascular disease were identified in young adults aged 20-49 years. A reduction in CVD mortality was identified in all regions of Brazil, except for individuals aged 20-24 years, residing in the Northeast region, which showed an increase (APC: 2.45%) (p<0.05) 2013 -2017. The greatest variation in the mortality trend occurred in the South region (APC: -25.2%). While the smallest change in mortality trend occurred in the Northeast region (APC: -8.8%). The annual decline was smaller in the second quinquennium (2013-2017) compared to the first (2008-2012). Furthermore, the decline was more pronounced among women (APC: -2.51%) (p<0.05) 2008-2012 and in young adults aged 40-44 years (APC: -2.91%) (p<0.05) 2008-2012. Furthermore, the trend in CVD mortality stabilized from 2013 onwards in males (p>0.05).Conclusion: the results demonstrate a decreasing trend in mortality from Cardiovascular Disease in young adults in Brazil, between 2008-2017. It is concluded that there is inequality in the trend of mortality from CVD according to sex, age group and regions of Brazil.

Cardiovascular health control in the family health strategy.

Introduction: In Brazil, the Unified Health System (SUS) controls and oversees public health care, and the Family Health Strategy (FHS) is its primary access, with 60% of the population registered in it. The surveillance of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is the responsibility of the FHS. In 2010, the American Heart Association (AHA) proposed the evaluation of seven metrics (smoking, Body Mass Index (BMI), physical activity, diet, total cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose) with an aim to monitoring cardiovascular health (CVH). However, the results of the FHS regarding the CVH of the Brazilian population are unascertained. Objective: Evaluate the control of CVH among adult patients treated by the FHS in the city of Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the seven metrics recommended by the AHA to evaluate CVH among patients treated by the FHS. The city of Aracaju has a population of 571,149 inhabitants, with 394,267 > 20 years of age; therefore, it was admitted that in a simple random sample, sampling error of 5% with 95% CI, 329 individuals would be needed. Results: Among 400 patients, only 32.5% had controlled CVH. In a univariate analysis, the adjusted multivariate analysis found that being female (aOR: 2.07 IC: 1.20 to 3.60 p: 0.006) under 45 years old (aOR: 1.61 IC: 1.15 to 2.28 p: 0.006) and with the habit of following health advice from family members and neighbors (aOR: 1.28 IC: 1.15 to 2.28 p: 0.040) were associated with control of CVH. On the other hand, those ones who had a greater number of children (aOR: 0.91 IC: 0.84 to 0.95 p: 0.020) were associated with less control of CVH. Conclusions: The study showed that only 32.5% of patients have controlled CVH. Being a woman, young and following health advice from family members and neighbors have a positive influence in controlling CVH. More children reduced controlling these metrics.

Overview of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Adults in São Paulo, Brazil: Prevalence and Associated Factors in 2008 and 2015

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in Brazil. Objective To provide population-based data on prevalence and factors associated with CVD risk factors. Methods Individuals aged ≥20 years from two editions of the cross-sectional Health Survey of São Paulo focusing on Nutrition (ISA-Nutrition), performed in Sao Paulo city in 2008 (n=590) and 2015 (n=610), were evaluated for: obesity, central obesity, waist/height ratio, high blood pressure (HBP), dyslipidemia, diabetes, and number of CVD risk factors ≥3. Prevalence was estimated according to complex survey procedures. Factors associated with cardiovascular risk factors were assessed using logistic regression, with statistical significance of p<0.05. Results Obesity and older age were associated with higher odds of all cardiovascular risk factors investigated, except for dyslipidemia. HBP was positively associated with being Black/Brown and negatively associated with being physicaly active in leisure time. Women were more likely to have increased adiposity indicators and three or more cardiovascular risk factors than men. Those with higher education had lower chances of having diabetes, HBP and dyslipidemia, and those with higher income had higher chances of having three or more risk factors. Former smokers had higher odds of diabetes, obesity, and high waist/height ratio, and smokers had higher odds of high non-HDL cholesterol levels. From 2008 to 2015, there was an increase (p<0.001) in the prevalence of diabetes (6.9% to 17.3%), HBP (31.9% to 41.8%), dyslipidemia (51.3% to 67.6%), and number of CVD risk factors ≥3 (18.9% to 34.1%). Conclusion This study shows increasing prevalence of CVD risk factors in adult population in Sao Paulo and may support the definition of target groups and priority actions on CVD prevention and treatment.

Influence of Factors Affecting Quality of Life on in-Hospital Cardiovascular Events of Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction with and without ST-segment Elevation

Abstract Background Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), with and without ST-segment elevation (STEMI and NSTEMI, respectively), is the principal cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in Brazil and around the world. Modifiable risk factors (RF) and quality of life (QOL) may correlate with the type of AMI. Objective To evaluate the influence of QOL and RF on the type of AMI and in-hospital cardiovascular events in STEMI and NSTEMI patients. Methods This was an observational, cross-sectional study. Patients with AMI attending four referral hospitals (three private and one public) for cardiovascular disease treatment were assessed for QOL using the Brazilian version of the 36-item short form survey. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results We evaluated 480 volunteers; 51% were treated in one of the private hospitals. In total, 55.6% presented with STEMI, and 44.4% with NSTEMI. Patients from the public hospital were 8.56 times more likely to have STEMI compared to those from the private hospitals. There was a higher prevalence of smokers in STEMI (p < 0.028) patients. QOL was not associated with the type of AMI. A negative patient perception of the physical health and pain domains was observed. Although a significant difference between the physical and the mental health domains was not observed, individual domains were correlated with some in-hospital outcomes. Conclusion There was a higher prevalence of smokers among individuals with STEMI. Domains of QOL showed a statistically significant relationship with the occurrence of in-hospital cardiovascular events, with no difference between the types of AMI.

A Review of the Cardiac and Cardiovascular Effects of COVID-19 in Adults and Children.

Symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) typically affects the respiratory system but can involve the cardiovascular system. Cardiac complications of COVID-19 can result directly from myocarditis or indirectly from numerous other mechanisms. Differentiating between primary and secondary cardiovascular involvement-our focus in this review-may help to identify the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the heart in adults and children.

Associação entre Ácido Úrico Sérico e Pré-Hipertensão e Hipertensão entre Adultos Chineses / Association between Serum Uric Acid and Pre-hypertension and Hypertension among Chinese Adults

Resumo Fundamento O ácido úrico , produto final do metabolismo dos nucleotídeos das purinas, participa dos processos de doenças metabólicas e cardiovasculares. Evidências experimentais sugerem que o ácido úrico é um mediador importante na resposta fisiológica ao aumento da pressão arterial. Objetivo Avaliar a associação entre os níveis séricos de AU e pré-hipertensão e hipertensão em uma população chinesa. Métodos Conduziu-se um estudo transversal entre março e setembro de 2017, e 1.138 participantes com idades entre 35 e 75 anos foram incluídos neste estudo, onde 223 normotensos, 316 pré-hipertensos e 599 hipertensos foram selecionados para avaliar a associação entre níveis séricos de AU e hipertensão. Considerou-se um valor de p<0,05 estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Os níveis séricos de AU foram significativamente maiores no grupo pré-hipertensão e hipertensão em comparação com o grupo controle em toda a população (p<0,05 para todos). A análise quantitativa das características indicou níveis séricos de AU (2,92±0,81, 3,06±0,85, 3,22±0,98 mg/d) linearmente aumentados em mulheres normotensas, pré-hipertensas e hipertensas, com um valor de p de 0,008. Os níveis séricos de AU nos quartis correlacionaram-se positivamente com a PAD (p<0,05), principalmente em mulheres. Após o ajuste para idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal (IMC), glicose (GLI), colesterol total (CT), triglicerídeos (TG), colesterol HDL (lipoproteína de alta densidade), as razões de chances ( odds ratios — ORs) e intervalos de confiança (IC) de 95% da pré-hipertensão, dos níveis séricos de AU mais baixos (referentes) aos mais altos foram 1,718 (1,028-2,872), 1,018 (0,627-1,654) e 1,738 (1,003-3,010). Além disso, o segundo quartil dos níveis séricos de AU esteve significativamente associado à hipertensão, com uma OR (IC 95%) de 2,036 (1,256-3,298). Conclusões O presente estudo sugere que níveis séricos mais elevados de AU estão positivamente associados à pré-hipertensão e hipertensão entre adultos chineses.

Abstract Background Uric acid (UA), the end product of purine nucleotide metabolism, participates in the processes of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Experimental evidence suggests it is an important mediator in the physiological response to blood pressure increase. Objective To evaluate the association between serum UA levels and pre-hypertension and hypertension in a Chinese population. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to September 2017, and 1,138 participants aged 35 to 75 were enrolled in this study, where 223 normotensive, 316 pre-hypertensive, and 599 hypertensive subjects were selected to evaluate the association between serum UA levels and hypertension. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Serum UA levels were significantly higher in the pre-hypertension and hypertension group compared to the control group in the entire population (p<0.05 for all). Quantitative trait analysis indicated that serum UA levels were (2.92±0.81, 3.06±0.85, 3.22±0.98 mg/d) linearly increased in normotensive, pre-hypertensive and hypertensive females, with a p value of 0.008. Serum UA levels in the quartiles were positively correlated with DBP (p<0.05), particularly in females. After adjusting for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of pre-hypertension from the lowest (referent) to the highest levels of serum UA were 1.718 (1.028-2.872), 1.018 (0.627-1.654) and 1.738 (1.003-3.010). Additionally, the second quartile of serum UA levels were significantly associated with hypertension, with an OR (95% CI) of 2.036 (1.256-3.298). Conclusions This study suggests that higher serum UA levels are positively associated with pre-hypertension and hypertension among Chinese adults.

Clinical risk scores for the prediction of incident atrial fibrillation: a modernized review.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is considered the most common sustained arrhythmia. Major cardiovascular risk factors that have been identified to initiate and perpetuate AF include age, sex, arterial hypertension, heart failure, valvular heart disease and diabetes mellitus. In the literature, several studies aimed to formulate easily - applied and accurate risk stratification scores, based on antecedent cardiovascular events, comorbidities and biomarkers for the prediction of new-onset AF. The present narrative review addresses the most universally accepted and efficient clinical scores, with an extended applicability in different populations and ages, particularly scores derived from the Framingham Heart Study, the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities, the Malmo Diet and Cancer Study, as well as the CHARGE-AF, the CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, HATCH and CH2EST scores. Identification of incident AF can be challenging, thus dictating for utilization of validated clinical instruments in everyday clinical practice.

Caracterización de la mortalidad por enfermedades cardiovasculares: Cuba, 2009-2018 / Characterization of mortality from cardiovascular diseases: Cuba, 2009-2018

RESUMEN Fundamento: un tercio del total de muertes que ocurren en el mundo, por enfermedades no transmisibles, se deben a las enfermedades cardiovasculares que constituyen la primera causa de muerte a nivel mundial y en Cuba. Objetivo: caracterizar la mortalidad por enfermedades cardiovasculares en Cuba ocurridas en el período 2009-2018. Métodos: se realizó un estudio ecológico. Se utilizaron los anuarios estadísticos, publicados por el Ministerio de Salud Pública de Cuba y la Clasificación Internacional de Enfermedades (CIE-10). Se consideraron las tasas de mortalidad por enfermedades del corazón y su comportamiento por provincias, así como, las tasas de mortalidad por enfermedades del sistema circulatorio y su distribución por grupo de edades. Las tasas usadas fueron las brutas. Resultados: en Cuba las enfermedades del sistema circulatorio aportan una tasa de mortalidad entre 299,4 y 360,0 por 100 000 habitantes con tendencia al incremento. Las tasas de mortalidad para las enfermedades del corazón y de las arterias, arteriolas y vasos capilares, desde el año 2009 hasta el 2018, fueron superiores en los hombres. En cuanto a las enfermedades cerebrovasculares excedieron en las mujeres, excepto en los años 2014, 2016-2018. En el año 2013 y 2015 fueron muy similares para ambos sexos. Dentro de las enfermedades cardiovasculares las del corazón aportaron más años de vida perdidos, secundadas por las cerebrovasculares y en menor magnitud las de las arterias, arteriolas y vasos capilares. Conclusiones: las enfermedades cardiovasculares son un grave problema de salud por lo cual se hace necesario accionar sobre las causas que las originan, para ganar en la percepción de riesgo cardiovascular, en la responsabilidad de cada persona y en el auto cuidado de la salud.

ABSTRACT Background: a third of the total deaths that occur in the world, due to non-transmissible diseases, are due to cardiovascular diseases. They constitute the first cause of death worldwide and in Cuba. Objective: to characterize the mortality from cardiovascular diseases in Cuba that occurred in the period 2009-2018. Methods: an ecological study was carried out. Statistical yearbooks published by the Cuban Ministry of Public Health and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) were used. Mortality rates from heart diseases and their behavior by provinces were considered, as well as mortality rates from diseases of the circulatory system and their distribution by age group. The rates used were gross. Results: in Cuba, diseases of the circulatory system provide a mortality rate between 299.4 and 360.0 per 100 000 inhabitants with a tendency to increase. Mortality rates for diseases of the heart and arteries, arterioles, and capillaries, from 2009 to 2018, were higher in men. Regarding stroke diseases, they exceeded in women, except in the years 2014, 2016-2018. In 2013 and 2015 they were very similar for both sexes. Within cardiovascular diseases, heart diseases contributed more potentially lost years of life, supported by stroke diseases and to a lesser extent those of arteries, arterioles and capillaries. Conclusions: cardiovascular diseases continue to be a serious health problem, which is why it is necessary to act on the causes that cause them, gaining in the perception of cardiovascular risk and in the responsibility, of each person, in the self-care of the health.

Prevalence of NAFLD in Guatemala following exposure to a protein-energy nutrition intervention in early life.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The global prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is approximately 25%, with Hispanic populations at greatest risk. We describe the prevalence of NAFLD in a cohort of Guatemalan adults and examine whether exposure to a protein-energy supplement from conception to two years is associated with lower prevalence of NAFLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 1969 to 1977, four villages in Guatemala were cluster-randomized to receive a protein-energy supplement (Atole) or a no-protein, low-energy beverage (Fresco). We conducted a follow-up of participants from 2015 to 2017. We assessed blood samples (n=1093; 61.1% women; aged 37-53 years) for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and estimated NAFLD prevalence using the liver fat score. We used generalized linear and logistic models to estimate the difference-in-difference effect of Atole from conception to two years on NAFLD. RESULTS: Median ALT and AST were 19.7U/L (interquartile range, IQR: 14.1, 27.4) and 26.0U/L (IQR: 21.4, 32.8), respectively. The median NAFLD liver fat score was 0.2 (IQR: -1.2, 1.6) in women and -1.2 (IQR: -2.2, 0.5) in men (p<0.0001). The prevalence of NAFLD was 67.4% among women and 39.5% among men (p<0.0001). The association between Atole exposure from conception to two years and NAFLD was not significant (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.50-1.63). CONCLUSIONS: NAFLD prevalence among Guatemalan adults exceeds the global average. Protein-energy supplementation in early life was not associated with later NAFLD. There is a need for further studies on the causes and onset of NAFLD throughout the life course.

Fine particle environmental pollution and cardiovascular diseases.

Air pollution affects 90% of the world's population and has caused 9 million deaths in 2015, becoming the most important cause of premature deaths in the world. Exposure to fine particulate matter, a major component of urban air pollution, has been associated with an increase in cardiovascular risk and associated mortality. Impact of fine particles on the cardiovascular system includes inflammation, activation of prothrombotic pathways, oxidative stress, vascular dysfunction and remodeling, and neurological dysfunction. Genetic and epigenetic factors might also increase the susceptibility to air pollution. Consequently, epidemiologic studies have identified correlations between air particulate matter concentrations and acute coronary events, ischemic cardiomyopathy, acute heart failure, and stroke. Interestingly, these effects are present even for fine particulate matter concentrations below current US and EU regulatory standards, and seems to be more harmful in the most fragile population such as low-income or elderly subjects, or patients with previous cardiovascular disease. This review aims to summarize recent data on the pathophysiology and epidemiology of cardiovascular disease after particulate matter exposure. It will also discuss potential strategies to reduce the impact of air pollution on current and future populations' health.

Factores de riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular en estudiantes universitarios / Cardiovascular Risk Factors in University Students

RESUMEN Introducción: El comienzo de los estudios universitarios está asociado a cambios en el estilo de vida que pueden predisponer a la aparición de factores de riesgo cardiovascular (FRCV). Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de FRCV en los estudiantes que en 2017 cursaron el primer año de la carrera de Medicina en la Universidad Nacional del Litoral. Materiales y métodos: Estudio analítico, de corte transversal. Se realizó el muestreo consecutivo de 463 estudiantes de primer año de Medicina. Los FRCV considerados fueron los siguientes: IMC (sobrepeso/obesidad), circunferencia de cintura (criterios IDF), tensión arterial (presión arterial limítrofe y HTA), actividad física (nivel bajo), consumo de tabaco (exfumador y fumador actual), consumo de alcohol (consumo excesivo ocasional) y calidad de la dieta (poco saludable y mejorable). Los resultados se expresaron en porcentajes. Se realizó una prueba de hipótesis para la diferencia de proporciones, para determinar diferencias según sexo (α = 0,05 e IC del 95%). Resultados: Se evaluaron 457 estudiantes (18-21 años), 68% eran de sexo femenino. La prevalencia de presión arterial limítrofe fue significativamente mayor en varones (28,9%). La misma tendencia se observó para HTA. El 23% presentó exceso de peso y 18% circunferencia de cintura elevada, sin diferencias entre sexos. El 17% fumaban o fumaron en el pasado. El consumo de alcohol excesivo ocasional fue mayor en los varones, mientras que un bajo nivel de actividad física fue superior en las mujeres. Conclusión: La mayoría de los estudiantes presentaba al menos un FRCV. Se destaca la elevada prevalencia de varones con tensión arterial limítrofe y con HTA, y el exceso de peso en ambos sexos. La calidad de la dieta necesita cambios en la mayoría de los estudiantes.

ABSTRACT Background: The beginning of university studies is usually associated with lifestyle changes, which can predispose to the development of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CVRF in first-year medical students attending Universidad Nacional del Litoral during 2017. Methods: We conducted an analytical, cross-sectional study with consecutive sampling of 463 first-year students of the School of Medicine. The following CVRF were considered: body mass index (overweight/obesity), waist circumference (International Diabetes Federation criteria), blood pressure (bordeline blood pressure and hypertension), physical activity (low level), tobacco use (current smoker or history of former smoking), alcohol intake (binge drinking) and diet quality (unhealthy and unhealthy but manageable). The results were expressed as percentages. A hypothesis test was performed to determine a difference in proportions according to sex (α=0.05 and 95% CI. Results: A total of 457 students (18-21 years) were evaluated; 68% were women. The prevalence of borderline blood pressure and hypertension was significantly greater in men (28.9%). Overweight was present in 23% of the students and 18% had high waist circumference, without differences between sexes. The prevalence of current smoking or former smoking was present in 17% of the students. Binge drinking was more common in men, while the prevalence of physical inactivity was more frequent in women. Conclusion: Most students had at least one CVRF. The high prevalence of men with borderline blood pressure and hypertension and overweight in both sexes is emphasized. Most students have to change the diet quality.

Ideal Cardiovascular Health and Job Strain: A Cross-Sectional Study from the Amazon Basin / Saúde Cardiovascular Ideal e Estresse no Trabalho: Um Estudo Transversal da Amazônia Brasileira

Abstract Background: Ideal Cardiovascular (CV) Health is characterized by four ideal lifestyle parameters and absence of cardiovascular risk factors. The prevalence of ideal CV health in the Amazon Basin and the influence of job strain on CV health in this setting are uncertain. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of ideal CV health and its relationship with job strain in a secluded area from a developing country. Methods: Job strain was evaluated in 478 employees from an university in the Amazon Basin by a questionnaire that classified participants as passive, active, low or high strain, according to the demand-control model. CV health was evaluated using the American Heart Association 7 health factors (diet, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), smoking, hypertension, diabetes and hypercholesterolemia). Participants were classified as having ideal, intermediate or poor CV health. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age was 44.3 ± 12 years, 65% were men, and 35% were faculty. No participant fulfilled the criteria for ideal CV health. Intermediate CV health was found in 44 (9%) and poor in 434 (91%) individuals. Considering low strain as a reference group, individuals classified as high strain, active and passive had a non-significant (p > 0.05) increase in the chances of having poor CV health. When adjusting for possible confounders, high job strain was associated with poor BMI (> 30 kg/m2), (OR 2.11, 95%CI 1.06-4.22; p = 0.034) and poor diet (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.29-4.13; p = 0.005). Conclusion: Job strain was not associated with cardiovascular health, but high job strain was related to obesity and poor diet. Given the high prevalence of poor CV health and lack of participants with ideal CV health, policies focusing on health education and lifestyle interventions are paramount to this population.

Resumo Fundamento: Saúde cardiovascular (CV) ideal é caracterizada por quatro parâmetros de estilo de vida ideal e ausência de fatores de risco CV. A prevalência da saúde CV ideal na Bacia Amazônica e sua relação com estresse no trabalho é desconhecida. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência da saúde CV ideal e sua relação com o estresse no trabalho em uma área isolada de um país em desenvolvimento. Métodos: O estresse no trabalho foi avaliado em 478 funcionários de uma universidade na Bacia Amazônica através de um questionário validado que classificou os participantes como passivos, ativos, baixa tensão ou alta tensão no trabalho, de acordo com o modelo de demanda e controle. A saúde CV foi avaliada usando os 7 parâmetros usados pela American Heart Association (dieta, atividade física, IMC, tabagismo, hipertensão, diabetes e hipercolesterolemia). Os participantes foram classificados em saúde CV ideal, intermediária ou ruim. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: A idade média foi de 44,3 ± 12 anos, 65% eram homens e 35% eram professores. Nenhum participante preencheu os critérios de saúde CV ideal. A saúde CV intermediária foi encontrada em 44 (9%) e ruim em 434 (91%) dos entrevistados. Considerando a baixa tensão como grupo de referência, indivíduos classificados como de alta tensão, ativos e passivos tiveram um aumento não significativo (p > 0,05) nas chances de ter saúde CV ruim. Ao ajustar para possíveis fatores de confusão, a alta tensão no trabalho foi associada à obesidade (IMC > 30 kg/m2): OR 2,11 (IC 95% 1,06-4,22; p = 0,034) e dieta inadequada: OR 2,31 (IC 95%: 1,29-4,13 p = 0,005). Conclusão: Não houve associação entre saúde CV e estresse no trabalho, mas a obesidade e a má alimentação foram relacionadas à alta tensão. Dada a alta prevalência de saúde CV ruim e ausência de participantes com saúde CV ideal, as políticas voltadas para a educação em saúde e as intervenções de estilo de vida são primordiais para essa população.

Hospitalizations among older adults: results from ELSI-Brazil / Hospitalizações entre adultos mais velhos: resultados do ELSI-Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To examine the factors associated with hospital use and their frequency in a nationally representative sample of the Brazilian population aged 50 years or older. METHODS Data from the baseline of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), conducted in 2015-2016, were used. Predisposing, enabling and need factors for the use of health services were considered. The analyzes were based on the Hurdle regression model and on estimates of population attributable risks. RESULTS Among 9,389 participants, 10.2% had been hospitalized in the previous 12 months. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) were observed for need factors (previous medical diagnosis for chronic diseases and limitation to perform basic activities of daily living) and for enabling factors (living in a rural area and in the North and Midwest regions of the country). The analysis of population attributable risks (PAR) showed a hierarchy of the need factors for the occurrence of hospitalizations, with higher contributions by stroke (PAR = 10.7%) and cardiovascular disease (PAR = 10.0%), followed by cancer (PAR = 8.9%), difficulty to perform basic activities of daily living (PAR = 6.8%), depression (PAR = 5.5%), diabetes (PAR = 4.4% ) and hypertension (PAR = 2.2%). CONCLUSIONS Four of the major diseases associated with hospitalizations (stroke, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension) are part of the Brazilian list of primary care-sensitive hospitalizations. These results show that there is a window of opportunity to reduce unnecessary hospitalizations among older Brazilian adults through effective primary care actions.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Examinar os fatores associados à ocorrência e à frequência de hospitalizações em amostra nacional representativa da população brasileira com 50 anos ou mais. MÉTODOS Foram utilizados dados da linha de base do Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde dos Idosos Brasileiros (ELSI-Brasil), conduzido em 2015-2016. Considerou-se fatores predisponentes, facilitadores e de necessidade para o uso de serviços de saúde. As análises foram baseadas no modelo de regressão Hurdle e em estimativas de riscos atribuíveis populacionais. RESULTADOS Entre 9.389 participantes, 10,2% foram hospitalizados nos 12 meses precedentes. Após ajustes por potenciais variáveis de confusão, associações estatisticamente significantes (p < 0,05) foram observadas para fatores de necessidade (história de diagnóstico médico para doenças crônicas e limitação para realizar atividades básicas de vida diária) e para fatores facilitadores (residência em zona rural e nas regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste do país). A análise dos riscos atribuíveis populacionais (RAP) mostrou uma hierarquização dos fatores de necessidade para a ocorrência de hospitalizações, com maiores contribuições do acidente vascular cerebral (RAP = 10,7%) e da doença cardiovascular (RAP = 10,0%), seguidos do câncer (RAP = 8,9%), da limitação para realizar atividades básicas da vida diária (RAP = 6,8%), da depressão (RAP = 5,5%), do diabetes (RAP = 4,4%) e da hipertensão (RAP = 2,2%). CONCLUSÕES Quatro entre as principais doenças associadas às hospitalizações (acidente vascular cerebral, doença cardiovascular, diabetes e hipertensão) fazem parte da lista brasileira de internações sensíveis à atenção primária. Esses resultados mostram que existe uma janela de oportunidades para a redução de hospitalizações desnecessárias entre adultos brasileiros mais velhos por meio de ações efetivas da atenção primária.

Coronary artery calcium score: current status.

The coronary artery calcium score plays an Important role In cardiovascular risk stratification, showing a significant association with the medium- or long-term occurrence of major cardiovascular events. Here, we discuss the following: protocols for the acquisition and quantification of the coronary artery calcium score by multidetector computed tomography; the role of the coronary artery calcium score in coronary risk stratification and its comparison with other clinical scores; its indications, interpretation, and prognosis in asymptomatic patients; and its use in patients who are symptomatic or have diabetes.

O escore de cálcio coronariano tem papel relevante na estratificação de risco cardiovascular, apresentando significativa associação com a ocorrência de eventos cardiovasculares maiores no acompanhamento de médio e longo prazo. São discutidos: os protocolos de aquisição e quantificação por meio da tomografia computadorizada multidetectores; seu papel na estratificação de risco coronariano e relação com os demais escores clínicos; suas indicações, interpretação e prognóstico em pacientes assintomáticos; sua utilização em pacientes sintomáticos e em diabéticos.

Coronary artery calcium score: current status / Escore de cálcio coronariano: estado atual

Abstract The coronary artery calcium score plays an Important role In cardiovascular risk stratification, showing a significant association with the medium- or long-term occurrence of major cardiovascular events. Here, we discuss the following: protocols for the acquisition and quantification of the coronary artery calcium score by multidetector computed tomography; the role of the coronary artery calcium score in coronary risk stratification and its comparison with other clinical scores; its indications, interpretation, and prognosis in asymptomatic patients; and its use in patients who are symptomatic or have diabetes.

Resumo O escore de cálcio coronariano tem papel relevante na estratificação de risco cardiovascular, apresentando significativa associação com a ocorrência de eventos cardiovasculares maiores no acompanhamento de médio e longo prazo. São discutidos: os protocolos de aquisição e quantificação por meio da tomografia computadorizada multidetectores; seu papel na estratificação de risco coronariano e relação com os demais escores clínicos; suas indicações, interpretação e prognóstico em pacientes assintomáticos; sua utilização em pacientes sintomáticos e em diabéticos.