Multidimensional frailty connection in older patients with diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) experience accelerated aging and, thus, a high prevalence of frailty. Our aim is to outline the type of frailty and prefrailty from a multidimensional perspective and the interaction of these dimensions in this scenery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational study of patients with DM over 60 years-old. Variables related to nutrition, cognitive and emotional status, physical and instrumental functional capacity and social resources were collected. They were divided into three groups (robust, prefrail and frail) according to the Fried scale. Each of the variables in the groups were compared and a correspondence analysis was carried out to see the influence of some dimensions with others in each stage of frailty. RESULTS: 188 patients (mean age 72.6 + 7.5) were analysed. Of them, 105 patients had prefrailty and 66 were frail. With the exception of social resources, the rest of the variables had an increasing prevalence depending on the stage of frailty. However, in the correspondence analysis (with 22.9% of variation explained by two dimensions) it was only patients with frailty who were associated with worse functional capacity, cognitive and emotional situation and mild to moderate social incapacity. CONCLUSIONS: In our sample there was a high prevalence of prefrailty, and frailty associated with an increase in the prevalence of other different dimensions except social resources. However, the interaction between these dimensions was only evident in the case of patients with frailty.

Strength of association of classical vascular risk factors in young patients with ischaemic stroke: a case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have reported an increasing incidence of ischaemic stroke among young adults. However, the strength of the association between traditional vascular risk factors has not been fully established. METHODS: We compared 120 patients with a first ischaemic stroke before the age of 55 years admitted to the stroke unit of our centre with 600 healthy non-stroke controls from a population-based cohort study (HERMEX), matched for sex. Risk factors assessed included: hypertension, obesity, auricular fibrillation, current smoking, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and diabetes mellitus. We used logistic regression analysis and calculated population attributable risk. We performed an overall analysis, by sex and aetiological subgroup. RESULTS: Using logistic regression analysis, we found that overall, the significant risk factors were: hypertension (OR: 1.58; 95%CI: 1.01-2.50), atrial fibrillation (OR: 4.77; 95%CI: 1.20-19.00), low eGFR (OR: 4.74; 95%CI: 1.3-21.94) and low HDL-C (OR: 5.20; 95%CI: 3.29-8.21), as well as smoking for males (OR: 1.86; 95%CI: 1.14-3.03). LDL-C showed an inverse association with stroke. The population attributable risk for HDL-C was 37.8% and for hypertension 21.1%. In terms of aetiological subgroups, only low HDL-C was associated with stroke of undetermined aetiology. CONCLUSIONS: Hypertension, auricular fibrillation, low eGFR, and low HDL-C, plus tobacco use in men, are the main risk factors among patients under 55 years of age with a first ischaemic stroke. We believe that it would be of particular interest to further explore the management of low HDL-C levels as part of preventive strategies in young stroke patients.

Incidencia de cardiopatía isquémica en el estudio HERMEX y su asociación con los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos / Incidence of ischemic heart disease in the HERMEX study and its association with classical cardiovascular risk factors

Objetivos: El conocimiento sobre la incidencia de enfermedad coronaria en nuestro país es escaso y sus fuentes poco comparables. Fue nuestro objetivo determinar la incidencia de cardiopatía isquémica en una cohorte poblacional con un seguimiento de 7 años y el riesgo asociado a los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos. Métodos: Estudio de cohortes prospectivo en una muestra poblacional de 2833 sujetos, seleccionada por método aleatorio simple entre ciudadanos de 25 a 79 años del Área de Salud Don Benito – Villanueva de la Serena (Badajoz), tasa de respuesta 80,5%. Se recogieron todos los episodios de angina de pecho, infarto de miocardio letal y no letal en individuos sin antecedentes previos de enfermedad cardiovascular. Se calcularon las incidencias acumuladas y las tasas de incidencia ajustadas por 100.000 personas-año por sexo y global. Resultados: De los 2833 participantes iniciales, se excluyeron 103 por antecedentes de enfermedad cardiovascular y 61 por pérdidas, completando el seguimiento 2669 (94,2%). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 6,9 años (RI 6,5 - 7,5), 56,4% mujeres; se registraron 59 eventos. La tasa de incidencia global de cardiopatía isquémica fue 327 casos/100.000 personas-año correspondiendo 470 casos/100.000 al sexo masculino y 211 casos/100.000 personas-año al femenino. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos que se asociaron con mayor riesgo de presentar eventos en el seguimiento fueron la dislipemia y la HTA, además del sexo masculino y la edad. Conclusiones: La incidencia de cardiopatía isquémica en la población urbano-rural de Extremadura, es elevada. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos más fuertemente asociados a su aparición fueron la dislipemia, y la hipertensión arterial (AU)

Objectives: Knowledge about the incidence of coronary heart disease in our country is scarce and its sources are not comparable. Our aim was to determine the incidence of ischemic heart disease in a population cohort in a 7 years of follow-up, as well as the risk associated with the different classical cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: Cohort study with a population sample of 2833 subjects, selected by the simple random method in a population between 25 and 79, from the Don Benito – Villanueva de la Serena (Badajoz) health area, response rate was 80.5%. All episodes of angina pectoris, lethal and non-lethal myocardial infarction were collected in individuals with no previous history of cardiovascular disease. Cumulative incidences and incidence rates adjusted per 100,000 person-years by sex and overall were calculated. Results: From 2833 initial cohort participants, 103 were excluded due to a history of cardiovascular disease and 61 for losses, 2669 completed the follow-up (94.2%). The median follow-up was 6.9 years (IR 6.5–7.5), 56.4% women; 59 events were recorded. The overall incidence rate of ischemic heart disease was 327 cases/100,000 person-years, corresponding to 470 cases/100,000 for men and 211 cases/100,000 people-years for women. The classical cardiovascular risk factors that were associated with a higher risk of presenting events in the follow-up were dyslipidemia and arterial hypertension, in addition to male sex and age. Conclusions: The incidence of ischemic heart disease in the urban–rural population of Extremadura is high. The classical cardiovascular risk factors most strongly associated with events were dyslipidemia, and arterial hypertension (AU)

[Incidence of ischemic heart disease in the HERMEX study and its association with classical cardiovascular risk factors]. / Incidencia de cardiopatía isquémica en el estudio HERMEX y su asociación con los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos.

OBJECTIVES: Knowledge about the incidence of coronary heart disease in our country is scarce and its sources are not comparable. Our aim was to determine the incidence of ischemic heart disease in a population cohort in a 7 years of follow-up, as well as the risk associated with the different classical cardiovascular risk factors. METHODS: Cohort study with a population sample of 2833 subjects, selected by the simple random method in a population between 25 and 79, from the Don Benito - Villanueva de la Serena (Badajoz) health area, response rate was 80.5%. All episodes of angina pectoris, lethal and non-lethal myocardial infarction were collected in individuals with no previous history of cardiovascular disease. Cumulative incidences and incidence rates adjusted per 100,000 person-years by sex and overall were calculated. RESULTS: From 2833 initial cohort participants, 103 were excluded due to a history of cardiovascular disease and 61 for losses, 2669 completed the follow-up (94.2%). The median follow-up was 6.9 years (IR 6.5-7.5), 56.4% women; 59 events were recorded. The overall incidence rate of ischemic heart disease was 327 cases/100,000 person-years, corresponding to 470 cases/100,000 for men and 211 cases/100,000 people-years for women. The classical cardiovascular risk factors that were associated with a higher risk of presenting events in the follow-up were dyslipidemia and arterial hypertension, in addition to male sex and age. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of ischemic heart disease in the urban-rural population of Extremadura is high. The classical cardiovascular risk factors most strongly associated with events were dyslipidemia, and arterial hypertension.

Tendencias en las tasas de hospitalización por ictus en Extremadura en el periodo 2002-2014. Cambiando la idea del ictus como una enfermedad propia de la senectud / Trends in stroke hospitalisation rates in Extremadura between 2002 and 2014: Changing the notion of stroke as a disease of the elderly

INTRODUCCIÓN: La incidencia del ictus en nuestro medio ha sido evaluada en diferentes estudios con amplia variabilidad y no comparables. Tampoco hay estudios que analicen los cambios epidemiológicos en pacientes más jóvenes. MÉTODO: Estudio retrospectivo observacional. Conjunto Mínimo Básico de Datos. Se seleccionó a todos los pacientes mayores de 19 años hospitalizados por ictus (códigos ICD-9-CM 434.01, 434.11, 434.91, 430, 431, 432.9, 436 y 435) en el periodo 2002-2013. Análisis mediante el método de regresión lineal segmentada. RESULTADOS: Un total de 39.321 casos fueron identificados. El 47,25% mujeres. Un 3,73% tenía entre 20-44 años, el 6,29% entre 45-54, el 11,49% entre 55-64, el 23,89% entre 65-74 y un 54,60% más de 74 años. Se demuestra un incremento significativo en la tasa de hospitalización por ictus isquémico en varones de 45-54 años, +6,7% (IC del 95%: 3,3-10,2) y en mujeres de 20-44 y 45-54 años, +6,1% (IC del 95%: 0,8-11,7) y +5.7% (IC del 95%: 3,0-8,4), respectivamente. También se observa un incremento significativo de la tasa de hospitalización de ictus isquémico en varones mayores de 74 años, +4,2% (IC del 95%: 1,3-7,2). El análisis para los ataques isquémicos transitorios reproduce lo que ocurre en el ictus isquémico. El mismo análisis para el caso de la hemorragia confirma una estabilización en las tasas de hospitalización en el tiempo. CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio demuestra de una forma indirecta los cambios epidemiológicos que se están produciendo en el ictus. Existe suficiente evidencia que indica un cambio epidemiológico al aumentar la tasa de hospitalizaciones en adultos jóvenes

BACKGROUND: The incidence of stroke in Spain has been evaluated in several studies, whose results are highly variable and not comparable. No studies of stroke have analysed epidemiological changes in younger patients. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective observational study using the Spanish health system's Minimum Data Set and included all patients older than 19 hospitalised due to stroke (ICD-9-CM codes 434.01, 434.11, 434.91, 430, 431, 432.9, 436, and 435) between 2002 and 2013. The analysis was performed using joinpoint regression. RESULTS: A total of 39,321 patients were identified (47.25% were women); 3.73% were aged 20-44, 6.29% were 45-54, 11.49% were 55-64, 23.89% were 65-74, and 54.60% were > 74 years. The hospitalisation rate due to ischaemic stroke has increased significantly in men aged 45-54 (+6.7%; 95% CI, 3.3-10.2) and in women aged 20-44 and 45-54 (+6.1%; 95% CI, 0.8-11.7 and +5.7%; 95% CI, 3.0-8.4, respectively). We also observed a significant increase in the rate of hospitalisation due to ischaemic stroke in men aged over 74 (+4.2%; 95% CI, 1.3-7.2). The rate of hospitalisations due to transient ischaemic attack has also increased significantly whereas the rate of hospitalisations due to brain haemorrhage has stabilised over time. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide indirect evidence that the epidemiological profile of stroke is changing based on the increase in hospitalisation rates in young adults

Trends in stroke hospitalisation rates in Extremadura between 2002 and 2014: Changing the notion of stroke as a disease of the elderly. / Tendencias en las tasas de hospitalización por ictus en Extremadura en el periodo 2002-2014. Cambiando la idea del ictus como una enfermedad propia de la senectud.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of stroke in Spain has been evaluated in several studies, whose results are highly variable and not comparable. No studies of stroke have analysed epidemiological changes in younger patients. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective observational study using the Spanish health system's Minimum Data Set and included all patients older than 19 hospitalised due to stroke (ICD-9-CM codes 434.01, 434.11, 434.91, 430, 431, 432.9, 436, and 435) between 2002 and 2013. The analysis was performed using joinpoint regression. RESULTS: A total of 39,321 patients were identified (47.25% were women); 3.73% were aged 20-44, 6.29% were 45-54, 11.49% were 55-64, 23.89% were 65-74, and 54.60% were > 74 years. The hospitalisation rate due to ischaemic stroke has increased significantly in men aged 45-54 (+6.7%; 95% CI, 3.3-10.2) and in women aged 20-44 and 45-54 (+6.1%; 95% CI, 0.8-11.7 and +5.7%; 95% CI, 3.0-8.4, respectively). We also observed a significant increase in the rate of hospitalisation due to ischaemic stroke in men aged over 74 (+4.2%; 95% CI, 1.3-7.2). The rate of hospitalisations due to transient ischaemic attack has also increased significantly whereas the rate of hospitalisations due to brain haemorrhage has stabilised over time. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide indirect evidence that the epidemiological profile of stroke is changing based on the increase in hospitalisation rates in young adults.

Non-proteinuric diabetic nephropathy is the main cause of chronic kidney disease: Results of a general population survey in Spain.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic nephropathy traditionally produces significant proteinuria prior to the development of renal impairment. However, this clinical paradigm has recently been questioned. The current study evaluated the impact of diabetes mellitus on the prevalence of renal disease in general population. METHODOLOGY: Data from of the HERMEX survey, an observational, cross sectional, population based study were used. The final sample included 2813 subjects (mean age 51.2 years, 53.5% female). Four hundred patients have diabetes. Urinary albumin excretion (UAE) rate was analyzed and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using the CKD-EPI formula. RESULTS: Among participants without diabetes, 2.9%(2.2-3.6) had a GFR < 60 ml/min. Prevalence of abnormal UAE in population without diabetes was 3.3% (2.6-4.0). The global prevalence of renal disease was 5.6%(4.8-6.6). Prevalence of GFR <60 ml/min in subjects with diabetes was 8.8%(6.4-11.9)(p<0.001,Chi-square test). Prevalence of abnormal UAE in population with diabetes was 14.1%(7.7-19.8)(p< 0.001,Chi-square test). CKD prevalence was 20.3%(16.6-24.6)(p<0.001,Chi-square test). The logistic regression analysis showed a positive independent association of CKD with age, high blood pressure and albuminuria. No significant relationship was found with diabetes mellitus CONCLUSIONS: CKD is more prevalent in population with diabetes. Nevertheless, most of patients with diabetes and CKD have no albuminuria. An increased cardiovascular burden seems to produce this clinical presentation.

The H.U.G.E. Formula (Hematocrit, Urea, Sex) for Screening Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in an Age-Stratified General Population.

AIM: To evaluate the screening power of the HUGE formula for the detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a Spanish population sample obtained from the HERMEX study, a survey of cardiovascular risk factors carried out in the region of Extremadura, stratified by age. DESIGN AND METHODS: This was an observational, cross-sectional, population-based study. The final sample included 2,813 subjects selected from Health Care System records. Anthropometric data and cardiovascular risk factors were recorded. Hematocrit, urea, creatinine and microalbuminuria were analyzed, after which the HUGE formula was applied. Renal function, assessed as eGFR based on serum creatinine, was estimated following the MDRD-4 formula. RESULTS: Using the HUGE formula, the estimated prevalence of CKD was 2.2% (men 2.2%, women 2.1%). The prevalence of CKD increased with age (5.0% in persons aged 60- 70 years and 9.6% in individuals over 70 years of age, p < 0.001) whereas with the MDRD formula the prevalence values were 9.8% and 15.5% respectively. The HUGE formula was seen to be highly specific (0.99). CKD was more common in persons >70 years, obese subjects, hypertensive patients, dyslipidemic subjects and those with microalbuminuria. Multivariate analysis revealed an independent negative association of CKD as the dependent variable with SBP, serum triglyceride levels and microalbuminuria. CONCLUSIONS: The HUGE formula allows the prediction of CKD in the general population to be honed without relying on serum creatinine levels. This method was found to have a higher specificity than the MDRD-4 formula. Moreover, it could reduce the excessively extensive diagnostic suspicion of CKD in women.

Infarto de miocardio en mayores de 75 años: una población en aumento. Estudio CASTUO / Myocardial infarction in older than 75 years: An increasing population. CASTUO Study

Objetivos: Los ancianos con infarto agudo de miocardio constituyen una población que no está adecuadamente representada en ensayos clínicos ni en registros médicos. Nuestro objetivo fue comparar, entre pacientes menores y mayores de 75 años, las características clínicas, los tratamientos administrados y la mortalidad. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional y retrospectivo de pacientes ingresados por infarto agudo de miocardio en la década 2000-09. Se construyeron modelos multivariados para estimar mortalidad hospitalaria y tardía (mediana 4,6 años; RI 25-75: 2,1-7,3). Resultados: Se incluyeron 2.177 pacientes (hombres 995 [79%]) con una edad media de 70,8 años (DE: 12,6). Un total de 917 (42,0%) tenían 75 años o más. Estos enfermos comparados con los menores de 75 años presentaron mayor prevalencia de diabetes (38,3 vs. 32,5%; p<0,002), enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (15,6 vs. 11,2%; p<0,002), ictus (14,3 vs. 7,3%; p<0,001), insuficiencia renal crónica (11 vs. 3,9%; p<0,001), fibrilación auricular (15,9 vs. 6,9%; p<0,001), insuficiencia cardiaca (28 vs. 23,4%; p<0,008). Recibieron menos betabloqueantes (55,9 vs.71,2%; p<0,001) y estatinas (44,3 vs. 62,3%; p<0,001), se les realizaron menos coronariografías (17,9 vs. 48,5%; p<0,001) y angioplastias (10,8 vs. 29,1; p<0,001). Los mayores de 75 años mostraron una menor supervivencia (mortalidad 44,5 vs. 18,9%), HR 1,89 (IC 95%: 1,57-2,29), asociándose inversamente con la mortalidad tardía: betabloqueantes (HR=0,74; IC 95%: 0,62-0,89), estatinas (HR: 0,73; IC 95%: 0,58-0,91) y angioplastias (HR=0,42; IC 95%: 0,30-0,57). Conclusiones: Los pacientes mayores de 75 años con infarto agudo de miocardio tuvieron menor supervivencia y recibieron menos betabloqueantes, estatinas y angioplastias, indicaciones que se asocian a una menor mortalidad (AU)

Objectives: Elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction constitute a population that is not adequately represented in clinical trials or medical registries. Our objective was to compare the clinical characteristics, treatments administered and mortality among patients younger and older than 75 years. Material and methods: Observational retrospective study of patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction in the decade 2000-2009. Multivariate models were constructed to determine hospital and late mortality (median, 4.6 years; IQR 25-75: 2.1-7.3). Results: We included 2,177 patients (995 men [79%]), with a mean age of 70.8 years (SD, 12.6). A total of 917 (42.0%) of the patients were 75 years of age or older. When compared with the patients younger than 75 years, the older patients had a greater prevalence of diabetes (38.3% vs. 32.5%; P<.002), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (15.6% vs. 11.2%; P<.002), stroke (14.3% vs. 7.3%; P<.001), chronic renal failure (11.0% vs. 3.9%; P<.001), atrial fibrillation (15.9% vs. 6.9%; P<.001), heart failure (28.0% vs. 23.4%; P<.008). The older patients were treated with fewer beta-blockers (55.9% vs. 71.2%; P<.001), statins (44.3% vs. 62.3%; P<.001), coronary angiographies (17.9% vs. 48.5%; P<.001) and angioplasties (10.8% vs. 29.1%; P<.001). The patients older than 75 years had lower survival (mortality, 44.5% vs. 18.9%; HR 1.89; 95% CI 1.57-2.29). The use of beta-blockers (HR, 0.74; 95% CI 0.62-0.89), statins (HR 0.73; 95% CI 0.58-0.91) and angioplasty (HR, 0.42; 95% CI 0.30-0.57) was inversely correlated with mortality. Conclusions: Patients older than 75 years with acute myocardial infarction had lower survival and were treated with fewer beta-blockers, statins and angioplasty, indications that are associated with lower mortality (AU)

Myocardial infarction in older than 75 years: An increasing population. CASTUO Study. / Infarto de miocardio en mayores de 75 años: una población en aumento. Estudio CASTUO.

OBJECTIVES: Elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction constitute a population that is not adequately represented in clinical trials or medical registries. Our objective was to compare the clinical characteristics, treatments administered and mortality among patients younger and older than 75 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational retrospective study of patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction in the decade 2000-2009. Multivariate models were constructed to determine hospital and late mortality (median, 4.6 years; IQR 25-75: 2.1-7.3). RESULTS: We included 2,177 patients (995 men [79%]), with a mean age of 70.8 years (SD, 12.6). A total of 917 (42.0%) of the patients were 75 years of age or older. When compared with the patients younger than 75 years, the older patients had a greater prevalence of diabetes (38.3% vs. 32.5%; P<.002), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (15.6% vs. 11.2%; P<.002), stroke (14.3% vs. 7.3%; P<.001), chronic renal failure (11.0% vs. 3.9%; P<.001), atrial fibrillation (15.9% vs. 6.9%; P<.001), heart failure (28.0% vs. 23.4%; P<.008). The older patients were treated with fewer beta-blockers (55.9% vs. 71.2%; P<.001), statins (44.3% vs. 62.3%; P<.001), coronary angiographies (17.9% vs. 48.5%; P<.001) and angioplasties (10.8% vs. 29.1%; P<.001). The patients older than 75 years had lower survival (mortality, 44.5% vs. 18.9%; HR 1.89; 95% CI 1.57-2.29). The use of beta-blockers (HR, 0.74; 95% CI 0.62-0.89), statins (HR 0.73; 95% CI 0.58-0.91) and angioplasty (HR, 0.42; 95% CI 0.30-0.57) was inversely correlated with mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Patients older than 75 years with acute myocardial infarction had lower survival and were treated with fewer beta-blockers, statins and angioplasty, indications that are associated with lower mortality.

Validación de la llamada telefónica como método de medida del cumplimiento terapéutico de la hipertensión arterial en Extremadura / Validation of the telephone call as a method for measuring compliance to arterial hypertension treatment in Extremadura

Introducción. El incumplimiento farmacológico supone un importante problema que afecta el éxito terapéutico de los pacientes. El objetivo principal de esta investigación consistió en validar la llamada telefónica al domicilio del paciente como método de automedición del recuento de comprimidos simple como método alternativo al patrón oro del recuento simple en consulta sanitaria. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio de investigación observacional, multicéntrico, prospectivo, longitudinal, desarrollado por 25 investigadores en diferentes centros de salud de Extremadura que incluyeron 125 pacientes diagnosticados de hipertensión arterial no controlada de los cuales finalizaron 121. La inclusión de pacientes se realizó de forma consecutiva y a medida que el investigador detectaba un hipertenso no controlado. Se efectuaron 3 visitas, que incluían visita de inclusión, visita de seguimiento a las 4 semanas y visita final a las 8 semanas. Previamente a las visitas primera y final, se realizó la llamada telefónica al paciente para recordarle la visita correspondiente y recopilar en ese mismo momento información sobre el número de comprimidos que le quedaban. Resultados. Fueron incluidos 121 pacientes. En la visita final, el test de la llamada telefónica como método de medida del cumplimiento obtuvo: sensibilidad: 100%; especificidad: 86%; exactitud global: 86,8%; VPP: 30,4%; VPN: 100%; CP+: 7,13; CP−: 0,0 e índice kappa: 0,415 (p < 0,0001). El área bajo la curva ROC fue de 0,995 (IC95%: 0,985-1). Conclusiones. Concluimos que la llamada telefónica como método de medida del cumplimiento terapéutico puede ser una buena alternativa por su casi universalidad, coste reducido y sin la necesidad de desplazamiento de los pacientes a los centros sanitarios (AU)

Introduction. Pharmacological non-compliance is a significant problem that can affect patient health. The main aim of this investigation is to validate the telephone call to the patient’ home as a self-report method of counting the amount of tablets taken by the patient, as an alternative method to a simple tablet count in the clinic (gold standard). Patients and methods. An observational, multicentre, prospective, and longitudinal study was conducted by 25 researchers in different health centres in Extremadura, and which included 125 consecutively enrolled patients with uncontrolled arterial hypertension, 121 ended the study. Three visits were made, including enrollment visit, follow-up visit at 4 weeks, and final visit at 8 weeks. A telephone call was made prior to the enrollment and final visit to remind the patients of the next visit, and to ask at the same time about the number of tablets remaining. Results. A total of 121 patients completed the study. In the final visit, the phone-call method of compliance showed: 100% sensitivity, 86% specificity, 86.8% of overall accuracy, 30.4% PPV, 100% NPV, CP+ 7.13, CP− 0.0, and a kappa index of 0.415 (P < .0001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.995 (95% CI, 0.985-1). Conclusions. It was concluded that the telephone phone call, as a therapeutic compliance method, can be a good alternative due to being almost universal, easy to use, its reduced cost, and without the need of patients to go to the medical centres (AU)

Prevalence of atrial fibrillation and its associated factors in Spain: An analysis of 6 population-based studies. DARIOS Study. / Prevalencia de fibrilación auricular y factores asociados en España, análisis de seis estudios de base poblacional. Estudio DARIOS.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of atrial fibrillation and its relationship with cardiovascular risk factors in Spain. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional study based on a grouped analysis of 17,291 randomized individuals recruited in 6 population studies. RESULTS: The prevalence of atrial fibrillation was 1.5% (95% CI:1.3-1.7%). Men had a greater prevalence of the disease than women (1.9 vs. 1.1%, respectively). The prevalence of atrial fibrillation progressively increased with age: 0.05% for patients younger than 45 years, 0.5% for those between 45-59 years of age, 2.3% for those between 60-74 years of age and 6.3% for those older than 75 years. The percentage of individuals who were underwent anticoagulant treatment was 74.3%. The risk factors significantly associated with arrhythmia were an age older than 60 years (odds ratio [OR]: 7.6; 95% CI: 5.1-11.2), the male sex (OR:1.8; 95% CI: 1.4-2.4), arterial hypertension (OR:1.6; 95% CI: 1.2-2.1), obesity (OR:1.5; 95% CI:1.2-2.1) and a history of coronary artery disease (OR:1.9; 95% CI: 1.3-3.0). CONCLUSION: Atrial fibrillation is a common disease in elderly individuals, while its prevalence is low in individuals younger than 60 years. Most individuals with atrial fibrillation were on anticoagulant treatment. The risk factors for this type of arrhythmia are age, the male sex, hypertension, obesity and a history of coronary artery disease.

[Validation of the telephone call as a method for measuring compliance to arterial hypertension treatment in Extremadura]. / Validación de la llamada telefónica como método de medida del cumplimiento terapéutico de la hipertensión arterial en Extremadura.

INTRODUCTION: Pharmacological non-compliance is a significant problem that can affect patient health. The main aim of this investigation is to validate the telephone call to the patient' home as a self-report method of counting the amount of tablets taken by the patient, as an alternative method to a simple tablet count in the clinic (gold standard). PATIENTS AND METHODS: An observational, multicentre, prospective, and longitudinal study was conducted by 25 researchers in different health centres in Extremadura, and which included 125 consecutively enrolled patients with uncontrolled arterial hypertension, 121 ended the study. Three visits were made, including enrollment visit, follow-up visit at 4 weeks, and final visit at 8 weeks. A telephone call was made prior to the enrollment and final visit to remind the patients of the next visit, and to ask at the same time about the number of tablets remaining. RESULTS: A total of 121 patients completed the study. In the final visit, the phone-call method of compliance showed: 100% sensitivity, 86% specificity, 86.8% of overall accuracy, 30.4% PPV, 100% NPV, CP+ 7.13, CP- 0.0, and a kappa index of 0.415 (P<.0001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.995 (95% CI, 0.985-1). CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the telephone phone call, as a therapeutic compliance method, can be a good alternative due to being almost universal, easy to use, its reduced cost, and without the need of patients to go to the medical centres.

Proteína C reactiva en el síndrome de apneas e hipopneas durante el sueño / C-reactive protein in obstructive sleep apnea

La proteína C reactiva (PCR) se ha propuesto como un marca-dor del riesgo cardiovascular. El síndrome de apneas e hipop-neas durante el sueño (SAHS) se asocia a síndrome metabóli-co y al riesgo cardiovascular. OBJETIVOS: Estudiar los niveles de PCR en pacientes con SAHS y compararlos con los de la población general. Estudiar la relación entre la severidad del SAHS y los niveles de PCR.Pacientes y método: Estudio de casos y controles incluyen-do 100 pacientes sucesivos diagnosticados de SAHS y 113 personas de la población general. Se recogió la edad, el sexo, los factores de riesgo cardiovascular, la comorbilidad cardio-vascular y los valores de PCR. Además, en el grupo de casos, se recogieron la escala de somnolencia de Epworth y el índice de eventos respiratorios (RDI).RESULTADOS: Los pacientes con SAHS fueron más obesos (IMC 33,1±7,1 vs 28,7±5,5; p < 0,01), la diabetes fue más frecuente (22% vs 10%; p = 0,02) y eran con más frecuencia fumadores (51% vs 34,5%; p = 0,015). Los niveles de PCR fueron ligeramente superiores en el grupo de pacientes con SAHS (0,47±0,5 vs 0,44±0,75; p = 0,032). No encontramos asociación entre la severidad del SAHS y los niveles de PCR tras ajustar por el resto de las variables en un modelo de regre-sión lineal múltiple. CONCLUSIÓN: Aunque los pacientes con SAHS presentaron niveles de PCR ligeramente superiores a los de la población general, no se puede descartar la influencia de otros factores. La severidad del SAHS no influyó en los niveles de PCR

C-reactive protein (CRP) has been proposed as cardiovascular risk marker. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is associated to metabolic syndrome and major cardiovascular events.Objetives: To study CRP levels in OSA patients and compare them to healthy people, as the relationship between OSA se-verity and CRP levels in this patients.Material and method: Case-control study including 100 consecutive diagnosed OSA patients and 113 healthy people randomly selected from general population. Age, sex, hyper-tension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, body mass index (BMI), smo-king, comorbidity and CRP were recorded. In OSA patients, Epworth scale and respiratory disturbance index (RDI) were recorded too. RESULTS: OSA patients were more obese (IMC 33,1±7,1 vs 28,7±5,5; p < 0,01), had diabetes (22% vs 10%; p = 0,02) and were smokers (51% vs 34,5%; p = 0,015) more frequently. CRP levels were slightly higher in OSA patients (0,47 ± 0,5 vs 0,44 ± 0,75; p = 0,032). We don't find out a significant relations-hip between OSA severity and CRP levels in a multiple regres-sion model after adjusting by other variables. CONCLUSION: Although OSA patients shows slightly higher le-vels of CRP than healthy people in our sample, other factors rather than severity of OSA influence that issue

The HUGE formula (hematocrit, urea and gender): association with cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the relationship between chronic renal failure (CFR) defined through HUGE (hematocrit, urea and gender) formula score and the patient's cardiovascular risk measured through cardiovascular disease antecedents such as ischemic cardiopathy, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral arterial disease. DESIGN AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 2,831 subjects. Mean age was 51.2±14.7 years and 53.5% were female. Serum creatinine, urea, hematocrit and 24h proteinuria were analyzed. HUGE score was calculated from gender, urea and hematocrit. GFR was estimated from uncalibrated serum creatinine using the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation (MDRD-4). UAE was measured in first morning urine sample. RESULTS: Using HUGE formula 2.2% (n = 61) of subjects had CRF. Of them, 12 (19.7%) had cardiovascular disease history. Among patients without CRF (n = 2770), 194 subjects had history of previous cardiovascular diseases (0.07%; p < 0.001 Square Chi test). Using the MDRD-4 formula 4.0% of subjects (n = 113) had a GFR < 60 ml/min. Of them, 18 (15.9%) had cardiovascular disease history. Among patients without CRF (n = 2718), 188 subjects had history of previous cardiovascular diseases (0.07%; p < 0.001 Square Chi test). Odd's ratio for cardiovascular diseases using HUGE definition of CRF was 3.25 (p = 0.001, Mantel-Haenszel test). CFR was associated to higher pulse pressure (PP) and increased urinary albumin excretion. CONCLUSIONS: A significant cardiovascular risk was associated to the diagnosis of CRF through HUGE formula. This relation was closer than the obtained using MDRD estimated GFR in spite of a bigger sample. HUGE formula seems to be a useful tool for diagnosing CRF and evaluate the cardiovascular risk of these patients.

Tendencia de la mortalidad por ictus isquémico (2000-2009) y factores pronósticos. Estudio ICTUS-Extremadura / Ischemic stroke mortality tendency (2000-2009) and prognostic factors. ICTUS Study-Extremadura (Spain)

Antecedentes y objetivos. La mortalidad por ictus isquémico es elevada en nuestro entorno, aunque desconocemos su magnitud y evolución en una década reciente. Por ello hemos analizado la mortalidad global hospitalaria y al cabo de un año de los enfermos con ictus isquémico atendidos en un hospital comarcal y sus factores pronósticos. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio de cohorte histórica, con seguimiento de un año, de los pacientes ingresados en el Hospital Don Benito-Villanueva de la Serena (Badajoz) con el diagnóstico de ictus isquémico (1 de enero 2000 al 31 de diciembre 2009). Se recogieron datos epidemiológicos y clínicos, y los fallecimientos por cualquier causa. Resultados. Se incluyeron 2.228 pacientes (50,8% varones), con una edad media de 71 (DE: 10) años. La mortalidad hospitalaria fue del 15,3% y al cabo de un año del 16,9%, sin cambios relevantes en los 10 años del estudio. Los factores asociados a una mayor mortalidad hospitalaria fueron: edad, insuficiencia cardiaca y renal, y la no realización de pruebas diagnósticas, y al año fueron: edad, demencia, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, infarto de miocardio, fibrilación auricular y la no realización de pruebas diagnósticas. Durante el estudio se incrementaron la realización de pruebas diagnósticas y el tratamiento al alta con estatinas, heparina y antihipertensivos. Conclusiones. Los pacientes ingresados por ictus isquémico en un hospital comarcal presentaron una mortalidad global al cabo de un año del 29,6%. No asistimos a una mejoría en esta tendencia durante 10 años. La mortalidad se asoció a la mayor edad, comorbilidades y no realización de pruebas diagnósticas(AU)

Background and objectives. Mortality due to stroke is high in our setting. However, we do not know its magnitude and course in a recent decade. Thus, we have assessed the global inhospital mortality and that at 1 year of stroke in patients seen in a regional hospital as well as its prognostic factors. Material and methods. A one-year follow-up historical cohort study was performed of patients admitted at Don Benito-Villanueva de la Serena Regional Hospital (Badajoz) with diagnosis of ischemic stroke (1 January 2000 to 31 December 2009). Epidemiological, clinical data all cause death information were collected. Results. A total of 2.228 patients (50.8% male), mean age 71 (SD 10) years were recruited. In-hospital mortality rate was 15.3% and mortality rate at 1 year was 16.9%, with no significant changes during the 10-year study period. Risk factors for greater in-hospital mortality were age, previous renal and heart failure and not performing diagnostic tests. Factors associated with 1-year all-cause mortality were age, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation and also not performing diagnostic tests. During the study, use of diagnostic tests and treatment with statin, heparin and antihypertensive medication on discharge increased. Conclusions. Patients admitted due to ischemic stroke, in a regional hospital presented a 1 year mortality rate of 29.6%. This tendency did not improve during the 10-year study period. Mortality was associated to greater age, comorbidities and not performing diagnostic tests(AU)

Ischemic stroke mortality tendency (2000-2009) and prognostic factors. ICTUS Study-Extremadura (Spain).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mortality due to stroke is high in our setting. However, we do not know its magnitude and course in a recent decade. Thus, we have assessed the global inhospital mortality and that at 1 year of stroke in patients seen in a regional hospital as well as its prognostic factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A one-year follow-up historical cohort study was performed of patients admitted at Don Benito-Villanueva de la Serena Regional Hospital (Badajoz) with diagnosis of ischemic stroke (1 January 2000 to 31 December 2009). Epidemiological, clinical data all cause death information were collected. RESULTS: A total of 2.228 patients (50.8% male), mean age 71 (SD 10) years were recruited. In-hospital mortality rate was 15.3% and mortality rate at 1 year was 16.9%, with no significant changes during the 10-year study period. Risk factors for greater in-hospital mortality were age, previous renal and heart failure and not performing diagnostic tests. Factors associated with 1-year all-cause mortality were age, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation and also not performing diagnostic tests. During the study, use of diagnostic tests and treatment with statin, heparin and antihypertensive medication on discharge increased. CONCLUSIONS: Patients admitted due to ischemic stroke, in a regional hospital presented a 1 year mortality rate of 29.6%. This tendency did not improve during the 10-year study period. Mortality was associated to greater age, comorbidities and not performing diagnostic tests.

Características clínicas y mortalidad de la insuficiencia cardiaca. Estudio INCAex / Clinical characteristics and mortality of heart failure. INCAex study

Antecedentes y objetivos. La insuficiencia cardiaca es la causante del mayor gasto sanitario en hospitalización y la tercera causa de mortalidad cardiovascular. Fue nuestro objetivo determinar la evolución de las características clínicas, y los factores relacionados con el pronóstico en pacientes ingresados por insuficiencia cardiaca en un área de salud de Extremadura durante 10 años. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y unicéntrico en pacientes consecutivos ingresados por insuficiencia cardiaca descompensada en un Hospital General de la provincia de Badajoz en el período 2000/2009. Resultados. Se incluyeron 2.220 pacientes con una edad media de 76,3 (DE±10,1) años, 54% mujeres. Estratificados en 4 períodos de 30 meses, se observó: un significativo incremento de los pacientes mayores de 75 años (55 al 71%; p<0,001) y al alta una mayor prescripción de bloqueadores beta (12 al 34%; p<0,001), estatinas (8 al 31%; p<0,001), y anticoagulantes orales (13 al 25%; p<0,001). La mortalidad intrahospitalaria disminuyó del 13 al 8% (p<0,01) y al año del 30 al 23% (p<0,01). Fueron predictores independientes de mortalidad al año la edad (HR=1,04 [IC del 95%: 1,02-1,05]), la diabetes (HR=1,35 [IC del 95%: 1,11-1,66]) y la insuficiencia renal (HR=1,49 [IC del 95%: 1,18-1,87]). Conclusiones. La mortalidad ha disminuido significativamente en la década a pesar del incremento de la edad. La edad, la diabetes y la insuficiencia renal crónica resultaron predictores independientes de mortalidad al año. La anticoagulación resultó protectora(AU)

Background and objectives. Heart failure is responsible for a major part of hospital health expenditure and the third cause of cardiovascular death. To describe the evolution of clinical features, and factors related to prognosis of patients admitted due to decompensated heart failure in a region of Extremadura during a period 10 years. Patients and methods. Observational, retrospective and single centre study of consecutive patients admitted due to decompensated heart failure in a general hospital in the province of Badajoz, during the period 2000/2009. Results. A total of 2220 patients with mean age of 76.3 (SD±10.1), being 54% female were included in the study. Stratified into four periods (30 months each), a significant increase in patients over 75 years was observed (55 vs. 71%; P<.001), as well as an increase in the prescription of beta blockers at discharge (12 vs. 34%, P<.001), statins (8 vs. 31%; P<.001), and oral anticoagulants (13 vs. 25%; P<.001). Hospital mortality significantly decreased from 13 to 8% (P<.01), and from 30 to 23% (P<.01) at one year follow-up. Age (HR per year=1.04 [95% CI: 1.02 to 1.05]), diabetes (HR=1.35 [95% CI: 1.11 to 1.66]) and chronic renal failure (HR=1.49 [95% CI: 1.18 to 1.87]) were identified as independent predictors of all-cause mortality at one year of follow-up. Conclusions. Total mortality in patients with decompensated heart failure has declined significantly over the last decade, despite the increasing age. Age, diabetes and chronic renal failure were independent predictors of total mortality at one year. Oral anticoagulation was a protective factor(AU)

Prevalence of abnormal urinary albumin excretion in elderly people: a Spanish survey.

OBJECTIVES: HERMEX is a population-based study, which tries to evaluate the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in the population of Extremadura, Spain. This report provides the data concerning albuminuria in the elderly people recruited in the survey. DESIGN AND METHODS: 3,402 subjects were randomly selected from the database of the Health Care System of Extremadura. The final sample included 2,813 subjects (mean age 51.2 years, 53.5 % female). Urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER) in the first morning urine sample was analyzed. Albuminuria was diagnosed when UAER (albumin-to-creatinine ratio) was ≥ 22 mg/g in men or ≥ 31 mg/g in women. RESULTS: The prevalence of abnormal UAER in the elderly population was 10.9 % (microalbuminuria: 8.9 %; overt proteinuria: 1.8 %). The younger subjects showed a lower prevalence of microalbuminuria (3.4 %, p < 0.001). Elderly patients showed a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors than the younger ones. The elderly had higher systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure than the younger ones. Furthermore, the elderly subjects had lower plasma levels of HDL cholesterol, but higher triglycerides, glucose, creatinine, and glycosylated hemoglobin; no differences were found for total and LDL cholesterol. When the prevalence of causes of microalbuminuria was compared between age groups, we found a sharp increase in diabetic and, especially, hypertensive patients in the elderly group. The multivariate analysis showed an independent association of microalbuminuria with systolic blood pressure and plasma creatinine. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of abnormal UAER in elderly people was detected in a randomly selected sample of Spanish general population. In most elderly patients, microalbuminuria was associated with high blood pressure and, less frequently, with diabetes mellitus.

Clinical characteristics and mortality of heart failure. INCAex study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Heart failure is responsible for a major part of hospital health expenditure and the third cause of cardiovascular death. To describe the evolution of clinical features, and factors related to prognosis of patients admitted due to decompensated heart failure in a region of Extremadura during a period 10 years. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Observational, retrospective and single centre study of consecutive patients admitted due to decompensated heart failure in a general hospital in the province of Badajoz, during the period 2000/2009. RESULTS: A total of 2220 patients with mean age of 76.3 (SD±10.1), being 54% female were included in the study. Stratified into four periods (30 months each), a significant increase in patients over 75 years was observed (55 vs. 71%; P<.001), as well as an increase in the prescription of beta blockers at discharge (12 vs. 34%, P<.001), statins (8 vs. 31%; P<.001), and oral anticoagulants (13 vs. 25%; P<.001). Hospital mortality significantly decreased from 13 to 8% (P<.01), and from 30 to 23% (P<.01) at one year follow-up. Age (HR per year=1.04 [95% CI: 1.02 to 1.05]), diabetes (HR=1.35 [95% CI: 1.11 to 1.66]) and chronic renal failure (HR=1.49 [95% CI: 1.18 to 1.87]) were identified as independent predictors of all-cause mortality at one year of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Total mortality in patients with decompensated heart failure has declined significantly over the last decade, despite the increasing age. Age, diabetes and chronic renal failure were independent predictors of total mortality at one year. Oral anticoagulation was a protective factor.