Latin-American guidelines of recommendations at discharge from an acute coronary syndrome.

The diagnostic criteria, treatments at the time of admission, and drugs used in patients with acute coronary syndrome are well defined in countless guidelines. However, there is uncertainty about the measures to recommend during patient discharge planning. This document brings together the most recent evidence and the standardized and optimal treatment for patients at the time of discharge from hospitalization for an acute coronary syndrome, for comprehensive and safe care in the patient's transition between care from the acute event to the outpatient care, with the aim of optimizing the recovery of viable myocardium, guaranteeing the most appropriate secondary prevention, reducing the risk of a new coronary event and mortality, as well as the adequate reintegration of patients into daily life.

Los criterios diagnósticos, los tratamientos en el momento de la admisión y los fármacos utilizados en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo están bien definidos en innumerables guías. Sin embargo, existe incertidumbre acerca de las medidas para recomendar durante la planificación del egreso de los pacientes. Este documento reúne las evidencias más recientes y el tratamiento estandarizado y óptimo para los pacientes al momento del egreso de una hospitalización por un síndrome coronario agudo, para un cuidado integral y seguro en la transición del paciente entre la atención del evento agudo y el cuidado ambulatorio, con el objetivo de optimizar la recuperación de miocardio viable, garantizar la prevención secundaria más adecuada, reducir el riesgo de un nuevo evento coronario y la mortalidad, así como la adecuada reinserción de los pacientes en la vida cotidiana.

Mobile-phone text messaging to promote ideal cardiovascular health in women.

OBJECTIVE: Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) was developed to promote CVH as a key component of primordial prevention. Mobile short message service (SMS) is useful for improving health behaviours. We aim to test the effectiveness of SMS intervention in women to improve CVH. METHODS: In a single-blinded, randomised, controlled study, 620 women, aged 35-70 years, without cardiovascular disease, were enrolled in SMS intervention versus no SMS. CVH metrics by self-report, and biochemical laboratory, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements were collected during home visits at baseline and 9 months. Women were categorised as having poor (0-2), intermediate (3-4) or ideal (5-7) CVH according to the number of ideal CVH metrics. Participants were randomised 1:1 to SMS intervention versus control. SMS was sent every 5-6 days for 9 months. The primary outcome was the difference in the proportion of women with ideal CVH between SMS and control groups at 9 months. Rates of intermediate CVH, poor CVH and each of the seven ideal CV health metrics at 9 months were key secondary endpoints. RESULTS: At 9 months, there was no significant difference between groups for the primary outcome (16.3% at baseline and 13.3% at 9 months, and 10.1% and 11.1%, in SMS and control groups, respectively, adjusted RR 1.0; 95% CI 0.6 to 1.6). Similarly, there were no significant differences between groups for the key secondary endpoints. SMS had an acceptance rate of 94.9%. CONCLUSIONS: Behavioural SMS intervention did not improve rates of ideal CVH in women, despite being feasible and well received. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: 6377.

Interventricular Septal Hematoma Complicating Left Branch Bundle Lead Implantation: Treatment by Covered Stent.

We present a female patient with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction who underwent left bundle branch cardiac resynchronization therapy. Left bundle branch lead implantation was complicated with septal branch perforation causing an iatrogenic coronary fistula complicated by septal hematoma formation and development of shock. Occlusion by covered stents was successfully achieved.

Conciencia de enfermedad cardiovascular y conocimiento sobre factores de riesgo y prevención cardiovascular: resultados chilenos de encuesta SIAC cono sur / Awareness of risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular disease in chile: SIAC cono sur survey

Resumen La conciencia de la enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV) en mujeres es crucial para prevenir futuros eventos cardiovasculares. En Chile, la percepción sobre ECV es baja. Objetivo: Actualizar el grado de conocimiento de las chilenas sobre ECV. Método: Estudio de corte transversal realizado a través de encuesta online a mujeres entre 20 y 70 años de edad, residentes en Chile durante marzo 2020. La invitación se efectuó a través de redes sociales. La muestra fue no probabilística, ponderándose por edad, nivel socioeconómico y región de residencia (Región Metropolitana, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Bío-Bío). Resultados: Se obtuvieron 1227 cuestionarios validados. La muestra ponderada correspondió a 900 mujeres. La percepción de ECV como principal causa de muerte fue de 8%, menor que las correspondientes a cáncer de mama (44%) y muerte violenta / homicidio (20%). Como principal problema de salud, la opción más percibida fue cáncer general (39%), seguido de diabetes (18%). Sólo 6 % refirió la ECV como el principal problema. Los principales accesos a la información sobre ECV fueron la internet y las redes sociales (64%, mayor en <30 años), y en el consultorio (32%). La opresión o dolor en el pecho fueron los síntomas más reconocidos asociados al infarto, siendo más seleccionado por mujeres con nivel educacional alto (p< 0.05). Conclusión: Persiste una baja percepción del riesgo de la ECV como principal causa de muerte y problema de salud en mujeres chilenas, aunque tienen acceso a la información y reconocen síntomas de infarto. Es necesario adaptar las estrategias comunicacionales para incrementar la percepción de riesgo CV.

Abstract Awareness of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women is crucial to prevent cardiovascular events. According to prior information the perception and knowledge about CVD in Chile is extremely low. The aim of this study was to update the information about awareness of CVD in Chilean women. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out through an online survey. Data was obtained from women between 20 and 70 years old during March 2020. Social networks were used to recruit participants. The sample was non-probabilistic, weighted by age, socio-economic level and region of residence (Metropolitan Region, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Bío-Bío). Results: 1227 validated surveys were obtained. The weighted sample corresponded to 900 women. CVD was perceived as the main cause of death in 8% of women, compared to higher degrees of perception for breast cancer (44%) and violent death/homicide (20%). CVD was perceived as the main health problem by only 6% of women, compared to cancer (39%) and diabetes (18%). The primary source of information about CVD were the internet and social networks (64%,higher in women <30 years old), and the doctor's office (32%). Chest tightness or pain as symptoms associated with a heart attack were significantly more recognized by respondents with a high educational level (p<0.05). Conclusion: An extremely low awareness about CVD as the main cause of death and health problem is persistent in Chilean women, notwithstanding that they have access to information and recognize symptoms of a heart attack. It is necessary to modify our communication strategies to increase the perception of CV risk in Chilean women.

Gender-related Differences in the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic in Cardiometabolic Patients in Latin America: The CorCOVID LATAM Gender Sub-study.

COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures have disrupted lifestyle habits and self-care. Gender differences in health behavior during the pandemic have not yet been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate gender related differences in the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on patients with cardiometabolic diseases. A cross-sectional survey was administered to cardiometabolic patients in 13 Latin American countries between June 15th and July 15th, 2020. The study included 4216 participants, of which 2147 (50.9%) were women. Women reported healthier eating habits as well as lower tobacco and alcohol consumption than men but exercised less and reported increased symptoms of depression. Low income and symptoms of depression were associated with sedentarism in women. The interplay between psychological factors and sedentarism could increase the risk of cardiovascular events in this population.

Evaluación y utilidad del cuestionario DASI (duke activity score index) para la estimación de capacidad funcional en población chilena / A spanish version of the DASI questionnaire for estimation of functional capacity and cardiovascular risk applied to a chilean population

RESUMEN: El Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) es un cuestionario inglés utilizado para la estimación de capacidad funcional, que se ha correlacionado con equivalentes metabólicos (METs) y con consumo de oxígeno (VO2max). No existe información de su aplicación en población chilena. El objetivo fue evaluar la utilidad de una versión de DASI traducida al español y adaptada a población local, para predecir capacidad funcional determinada en prueba de esfuerzo máxima. Método: Se tradujo al español el DASI junto con adaptación de preguntas para población local. El cuestionario fue auto administrado previo a la realización de una prueba de esfuerzo máximo, sólo detenida por síntomas y percepción de esfuerzo de ≥17 /20 en escala de Borg. Se correlacionó METs con VO2max logrados en esfuerzo versus los estimados por DASI. Resultados: Se incorporaron 480 sujetos (edad x:50.9 ±15.3 años). La mediana (IQ) de METS estimados por DASI fue 9,2 (8,2-9,8). El valor α de Cronbach y Formula 20 de Kuder Richardson fue 0,72. El cuestionario fue de rápida aplicación. Se observó correlación significativa entre METs (r: 0.44; p< 0.001) y VO2max (r: 0,37; p< 0.001) determinados por cuestionario DASI y prueba de esfuerzo máxima. Conclusión: El DASI traducido y adaptado a población chilena es un instrumento sencillo de completar, que se correlaciona positivamente con capacidad funcional de forma similar a lo descrito en otros países, entregando una herramienta útil para la evaluación y predicción de riesgo cardiovascular.

ABSTRACT: The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is an English questionnaire used to estimate functional capacity and physical fitness that correlates with peak oxygen uptake (VO2max) and metabolic equivalents (METs). There is no available information of its application in Chilean population. Aim: to assess the efficacy of a Spanish version of the DASI questionnaire in predicting functional capacity in a Chilean population. Methods: DASI was translated into a Spanish version and adapted to local population and culture. The questionnaire was self-administered prior to carrying out a treadmill exercise stress testing, stopped only by symptoms or a perception of stress ≥17 / 20 on the Borg scale. Internal consistency was estimated with two tests. A correlation was performed between the METs and VO2max achieved in treadmill stress testing versus those estimated by DASI. Results: 480 subjects were enrolled (age x: 50.9 ±15.3 years old). The median (IQ) DASI score was 9,2 (8,2-9,8). Both Cronbach´s α and Kuder Richardson Formula 20 were 0,72. DASI was easy and quick to apply. A significant correlation was observed between METS by DASI and those estimated by stress testing (r: 0.44: p<0.001); the same was true for the estimation of VO2max (r:0.37: p<0.001). Conclusion: The Spanish DASI translation adapted to Chilean population is an easy instrument to apply. Results are similar those obtained in other countries in the estimation of functional capacity.

Prevalence and determinants of ideal cardiovascular health in a latin women cohort: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) sought to reduce cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. In Chile, CV mortality in women is high. The study's main aim was to determine the prevalence of ideal CVH, and the factors and behaviors associated with ideal CVH in women from Santiago de Chile. Methods: Cross-sectional study in women between 35 - 70 years old who were selected through a probabilistic, multistage, and geographically stratified sampling. The study included a survey on demographic and CV risk factors and anthropometric, blood pressure, and biochemical measurements. Three categories were used to characterize low (0-2), intermediate (3-4), and high (5-7) levels of AHA's Ideal CVH index. We assessed the prevalence of ideal CVH by age, education level, and socioeconomic status and determined the independent associations of different variables with ideal CVH. Findings: 620 women, mean age 51± 4 years old, were recruited. Ideal CVH prevalence was 14.3%; none of the women presented an ideal healthy diet, and only 22.6% reached an ideal BMI. The best predictors of ideal CVH were a high education level (OR= 2.85; 1.43 to 5.92; p < 0.01), having less than two alcoholic drinks per day (OR= 4.09; 1.60 to 13.77; p< 0.01), and having a pregnancy history without preeclampsia and/or gestational diabetes (OR=1.94; 1.07 to 3.71; p=0.04). Interpretation: This study demonstrates a low ideal CVH prevalence in Chilean women. Education level was a significant factor associated with ideal CVH. But also, women-specific risk factors, such as a history of preeclampsia/gestational diabetes, and alcohol consumption, were important factors related to CVH. Funding: This study was supported by grants from Fundación SOCHICAR de la Sociedad Chilena de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular, the American Heart Association and an unrestricted grant by TEVA Pharmaceuticals.

Recomendaciones en la prevención secundaria de cardiopatía isquémica en la mujer / Secondary prevention of ischemic heart disease in women

Resumen: La enfermedad cardiovascular en la mujer es la principal causa de muerte en Chile. La mujer con cardiopatía isquémica coronaria representa un riesgo de mortalidad dos veces mayor que el del hombre. Desgraciadamente, las mujeres han sido subrepresentadas en la mayoría de los estudios clínicos randomizados en prevención secundaria, y más aún, son pocos los que presentan análisis específicos de género en cuanto a la terapia y los puntos finales duros. Así, la evidencia que existe ha sido dirigida especialmente a hombres. Para reducir esta brecha, presentamos una revisión de la información en las distintas terapias en prevención secundaria de cardiopatía isquémica, destacando los resultados de trabajos en que se hizo análisis género-específico.

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in Chilean women. Ischemic heart disease mortality rate in women is two times that of in men. Unfortunately, there have been less enrollment of women in clinical cardiovascular trials and a lack of gender-specific analysis of clinical trial data. Therefore, the evidence for secondary preventive recommendations have been focused on men. To bridge this gap, in this review we address the data for secondary preventive therapies for ischemic heart disease in women assessing the available gender-specific data.

Low Cardiovascular Disease Awareness in Chilean Women: Insights from the ESCI Project.

Background: Although cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in Latin American women, limited data exist on CVD perceptions in this population. This study aimed to assess CVD awareness and knowledge of women from Santiago, Chile. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in women 35 to 70 years old. A multistage probability sampling (stratified by age and socioeconomic level) was used for participant selection. Participants completed a home survey about knowledge of CVD, risk factors, and perceived risk (based on standardized questions from the American Heart Association awareness survey). Results: 723 women participated in the study (mean age: 51 ± 9 years; 17.6% with high education level). Only 9.3% of the respondents mentioned CVD as women's primary health problem, whereas 22.7% and 16.1%, respectively, listed breast cancer and other cancers. When asked to identify the leading cause of women's death, only 14.4% identified CVD compared to 69.1% who recorded cancer. Older women (≥ 55 years) more likely identified CVD as the main cause of death: (OR 2.9: 95% CI = 1.8-4.5) versus younger women (<55 years). CVD family history was also associated with higher awareness of CVD as the leading cause of death (OR 1.7: 95% IC; p = 1.1-2.6). Instead, women with middle education level were less likely to mention CVD as the main women's killer. Conclusions: Chilean women from Santiago have a low awareness of CVD as the leading cause of death and do not recognize CVD as their prominent health problem. Efforts should focus on increasing awareness and knowledge about CVD especially in young women.

Ejercicio: una herramienta clave en la prevención cardiovascular: Consenso de la Sociedad Chilena de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular y de la Sociedad Chilena de Kinesiología en Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular / Excercise, a key intervention in Cardiovascular Prevention: Consensus of the Chilean Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery and the Chilean Society of Kinesiology in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery

This is a Document from de Chilean Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, along with the Chilean Society of Physical Therapy of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery.

Guías para la monitorización ambulatoria de presión arterial de 24 horas: documento de la Sociedad Chilena de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular / 24 hour blood pressure monitoring: recommendations from the Chilean Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery

Abstracts: 24 hour blood pressure monitoring. Recommendations from the Chilean Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery. The recommendations for blood pressure monitoring from the Chilean Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery are analyzed. Emphasis is placed on indications for the procedure, according to different classes and causes of hypertension. Implications of different types of hypertension for prognosis and indications for adequate therapy are discussed.

Mobile phone text messaging improves antihypertensive drug adherence in the community.

Antihypertensive drug adherence (ADA) is a mainstay in blood pressure control. Education through mobile phone short message system (SMS) text messaging could improve ADA. The authors conducted a randomized study involving 314 patients with hypertension with <6 months of antihypertensive treatment from the Preventive Health Program of 12 different primary care centers in Santiago, Chile. Patients were randomly assigned to receive or not receive SMS related to ADA and healthy lifestyle. Adherence was assessed by the self-reported four-item scale Morisky-Green-Levine questionnaire at baseline and after 6 months of follow-up, with four of four positive questions classified as good adherence. Group comparison for adherence was performed by means of a logistic regression model, adjusting by baseline adherence, age older than 60 years, and sex. A total of 163 patients were randomized to receive and 151 to not receive SMS. After 6 months of follow-up, ADA in the non-SMS group decreased from 59.3% to 51.4% (P=.1). By contrast, adherence increased from 49% to 62.3% (P=.01) in the SMS group. Text messaging intervention improved ADA (risk ratio, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-1.6 [P<.05]). At 6-month follow-up, text messaging resulted in an increase in reporting ADA in this hypertensive Latino population. This approach could become an effective tool to overcome poor medication adherence in the community.

Dislipidemia aterogénica en Latino América: prevalencia, causas y tratamiento / Atherogenic dislipidemia in Latin America: prevalence, causes and treatment

En las guías clínicas actuales, la dislipidemia aterogénica (DA) es una entidad escasamente atendida. Debido a las frecuentes alteraciones en los lípidos asociados a la DA en Latino América (LA), se organizó un grupo de expertos que se ha denominado Academia Latino Americana para el estudio de los Lípidos (ALALIP) para generar un documento con análisis de su prevalencia y ofrecer recomendaciones prácticas. Se utilizó la metodología Delphi modificada, con revisión comprensiva de la literatura con énfasis en aquellas publicaciones con implicaciones para LA. Subsecuentemente, se desarrollaron preguntas claves para ser discutidas. En LA no existe un estudio global sobre los factores de riesgo que representan a la totalidad de la población. El análisis sistemático de las encuestas nacionales de salud y de los estudios sistemáticos de cohorte muestran consistentemente una alta prevalencia de las anormalidades lipídicas que definen la DA. La concentración baja del colesterol unido a las lipoproteínas de alta densidad (C-HDL) varía entre 34,1% a 53,3% y la de triglicéridos (TG) elevados del 25,5% al 31,2%, con mayor prevalencia entre los hombres. Múltiples causas se han reconocidos, como alta ingesta de alimentos de mayor densidad calórica, contenido de colesterol, grasas trans, sedentarismo y cambios epigenéticos. La DA bien puede ser tratada con los cambios terapéuticos del estilo de vida (CTEV) con incremento en la actividad física, ejercicio regular y dieta baja en carbohidratos y alta en ácidos grasos poliinsaturados, tales como los ácidos grasos omega-3 como intervención primaria. De ser necesario, esta estrategia sera suplementada con terapia farmacológica como la monoterapia con estatinas o la combinación de fibratos/ácidos grasos omega-3. Las anormalidades lipídicas que definen la DA tienen una elevada prevalencia en LA; su interacción con un estilo de vida no saludable, herencia y cambios epigenéticos están ligados a sus posibles causas. La DA es una causa importante de riesgo cardiovascular residual (RCVR) que debe ser diagnosticada y tratada. Es importante y necesario diseñar un estudio global de factores de riesgo en LA para conocer la real prevalencia de la DA.

In the current clinical guidelines, atherogenic dyslipidemia (AD) is a poorly recognized entity. Due to the frequent lipid alterations associated with AD in Latin America (LA), we organized a group of experts named Latin American Academy for the study of Lipids (ALALIP), to generate a document for analyzing its prevalence and to offer practical recommendations. Using the Delphi methodology, we conducted a comprehensive literature review, with emphasis on those publications with implications for LA. Subsequently we developed key questions to be discussed. In LA there is no a global study on risk factors that represent the entire population. The systematic analysis of national health surveys and regional cohort studies showed a consistent high prevalence of the lipid abnormalities that define AD. Low high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ranges from 34.1% to 53.3% and elevated triglycerides (TG) from 25.5% to 31.2%, more prevalent in men. There are multiple causes: high consumption of foods with a high caloric density, cholesterol and trans fats, sedentary lifestyle and epigenetic changes. AD must be well treated with therapeutic changes in lifestyle with increased in physical activities, regular exercise and a diet with a low proportion of carbohydrates y rich in poliunsatured fatty acid, such as omega-3 fatty acid as primary intervention. If needed, this strategie must be supplemented with pharmacological therapies such as monotherapy with statins or a combination of fibrates plus omega-3.fatty acid. Lipid abnormalities that define AD have a high prevalence in LA; the interaction between non-healthy lifestyle, inheritance and epigenetic changes, possibly are its cause. AD is an important cause of cardiovascular residual risk (CVRR), that must be diagnosed and treated. It is important and neccesary to design a global study of risk factors in LA to know the true prevalence of AD.

Atherogenic Dyslipidemia in Latin America: Prevalence, causes and treatment: Expert's position paper made by The Latin American Academy for the Study of Lipids (ALALIP) Endorsed by the Inter-American Society of Cardiology (IASC), the South American Society of Cardiology (SSC), the Pan-American College of Endothelium (PACE), and the International Atherosclerosis Society (IAS).

This is an executive summary made by a group of experts named Latin American Academy for the study of Lipids (ALALIP). In the current clinical guidelines, atherogenic dyslipidemia (AD) is a poorly recognized entity. Due to the frequent lipid alterations associated with AD in Latin America (LA), we organized a group of experts named (ALALIP) to generate a document in order to analyze their prevalence and to offer practical recommendations. METHODOLOGY: using the Delphi methodology, we conducted a comprehensive literature review with emphasis on those publications related to LA. Subsequently, we developed key questions for discussion. As a convention, those recommendations that had a 100% of acceptance were considered unanimous, those with >80% were consensual, and those with <80% were in disagreement. RESULTS: a systematic analysis of national health surveys and regional cohort studies showed a consistently high prevalence of the lipid abnormalities that define AD: low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) range from 34.1% to 53.3% and elevated triglycerides (TG) range from 25.5% to 31.2%. These abnormalities could be related to high consumption of food with a high caloric density, cholesterol and trans fats, a sedentary lifestyle and perhaps epigenetic changes CONCLUSIONS: lipid abnormalities that define AD have a high prevalence in LA. The interaction between an unfavorable lifestyle, inheritance and epigenetic changes is probably their cause. It is important to design a global study of risk factors in LA to know its true prevalence in the region, its consequences and to derive from its treatment strategies.

[Subclinical atherosclerosis among Chilean subjects classified as having a low cardiovascular Framingham risk]. / Ateroesclerosis subclínica en población de riesgo cardiovascular bajo y moderado por Framingham chileno.

BACKGROUND: Framingham risk score (FRS) has limitations and can underestimate risk. Carotid ultrasound to measure intima media thickness or plaques is recommended for cardiovascular risk assessment. AIM: To determine the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects classified as low and intermediate risk. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study performed in subjects without cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular risk was estimated using the Chilean FRS and the General Cardiovascular Disease FRS. Carotid ultrasound was performed in all subjects. We defined subclinical atherosclerosis as the presence of carotid plaque or intima media thickness greater than 75th percentile by gender and age. RESULTS: We studied 203 subjects aged 47.2 ± 9.6 years (54% males). Mean intima media thickness was 0.62 ± 0.1 mm. An abnormal value was detected in 68 subjects (33%) and carotid plaques in 32 subjects (15.7%). Based on Chilean FRS, 96% were considered at low risk, 4% at intermediate, and none at high risk. In the low risk group the prevalence of abnormal intima media thickness and plaques was 40 and 14% respectively. Presence of plaques was more common in women than men (23 and 7% respectively, p < 0.01). According to the General Cardiovascular Disease FRS, 23% were at low, 39% at low intermediate and 28% at high intermediate risk. In the low risk group the prevalence of an abnormal intima media thickness was 34% and no subject had plaques. CONCLUSIONS: Carotid plaques were detected in Chilean subjects classified as having a low FRS risk. The underestimation of risk was higher in Chilean women.

Ateroesclerosis subclínica en población de riesgo cardiovascular bajo y moderado por Framingham chileno / Subclinical atherosclerosis among Chilean subjects classified as having a low cardiovascular Framingham risk

Background: Framingham risk score (FRS) has limitations and can underestimate risk. Carotid ultrasound to measure intima media thickness or plaques is recommended for cardiovascular risk assessment. Aim: To determine the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects classified as low and intermediate risk. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional study performed in subjects without cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular risk was estimated using the Chilean FRS and the General Cardiovascular Disease FRS. Carotid ultrasound was performed in all subjects. We defined subclinical atherosclerosis as the presence of carotid plaque or intima media thickness greater than 75th percentile by gender and age. Results: We studied 203 subjects aged 47.2 ± 9.6 years (54% males). Mean intima media thickness was 0.62 ± 0.1 mm. An abnormal value was detected in 68 subjects (33%) and carotid plaques in 32 subjects (15.7%). Based on Chilean FRS, 96% were considered at low risk, 4% at intermediate, and none at high risk. In the low risk group the prevalence of abnormal intima media thickness and plaques was 40 and 14% respectively. Presence of plaques was more common in women than men (23 and 7% respectively, p < 0.01). According to the General Cardiovascular Disease FRS, 23% were at low, 39% at low intermediate and 28% at high intermediate risk. In the low risk group the prevalence of an abnormal intima media thickness was 34% and no subject had plaques. Conclusions: Carotid plaques were detected in Chilean subjects classified as having a low FRS risk. The underestimation of risk was higher in Chilean women.

Adherencia farmacológica y prevención secundaria cardiovascular: una de las principales barreras en el tratamiento de la enfermedad ateroesclerótica: posición del Departamento de Prevención Cardiovascular de SOCHICAR en el uso de la polipíldora en prevención secundaria / Adherence to pharmacologic treatment in secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease

This paper outlines the position of the Department of Cardiovascular Prevention from the Chilean Society of Cardiology regarding the use of the "polypill". The international and local evidence regarding the benefits of the polypill compared to conventional therapy is reviewed. The benefits and some limitations of the polypill are outlined, along with cost-effective considerations. The increased adherence to treatment and the better clinical results of this strategy are put forward. The used of the polypill in different groups of subjects, especially those recovered from a recent myocardial in-farction, is recommended for individual patients and in Chilean cardiovascular prevention programs from the Ministry of Health.

[Assessment of adherence to antihypertensive therapy]. / Prevalencia y determinantes de adherencia a terapia antihipertensiva en pacientes de la Región Metropolitana.

BACKGROUND: Lack of adherence with medications is the main cause of antihypertensive treatment failure. AIM: To assess adherence to antihypertensive drugs and its determinants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Morinsky-Green questionnaire to determine treatment adherence was applied to 310 hypertensive patients from primary care centers, aged 60 ± 10 years (65% females) in treatment for 4 ± 1 months. Socio-demographic features, use of medications and quality of life using EQ5D questionnaire were also assessed. RESULTS: Twenty percent of patients were diabetic and 19% were smokers. Fifty four percent were adherent to therapy. A higher age and being unemployed were associated with a higher compliance. The main reasons to justify the lack of adherence were forgetting to take the pills in 67% and adverse effects in 10%. Only diastolic pressure was lower in adherent patients, compared with their non-adherent counterparts (78 ± 12 and 81 ± 17 mmHg, respectively p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Only half of hypertensive patients comply with their antihypertensive therapy.