Family sitosterolemia: report of two cases in Colombia. / Sitosterolemia familiar: reporte de dos casos en Colombia.

Sitosterolemia is an autosomal recessive and very rare disease. Its main characteristic is that there is a greater absorption and a decrease in the excretion of sterols, which leads to them being deposited in tissues. It is given by mutations in the ABCG5 or ABCG8 genes found on chromosome 2p21. In this clinical note, we describe the first two patients with familial sitosterolemia described in Colombia, brothers, one of them with xanthomas in extremities as the only symptom, and the other, completely asymptomatic. Genetic studies were performed as a diagnostic test in both patients, where a pathogenic homozygous variant could be identified in the ABCG8 gene in the first case (symptomatic), and a heterozygous variant in the ABCG8 gene in the second case (asymptomatic); the first patient has responded to treatment with ezetimibe. In conclusion, xanthomas should be studied in depth in pediatric age as they may be the only visible sign of such complex and hereditary diseases as familial sitosterolemia, which can be controlled and prevent cardiovascular complications of the disease.

Perfil clínico de la hipercolesterolemia severa en 156.000 adultos en atención primaria / Clinical profile of severe hypercholesterolemia in 156.000 adults in primary care

Objetivo Estimar la frecuencia y el perfil clínico de la hipercolesterolemia severa (HS) y del fenotipo de hipercolesterolemia familiar (HF) en el ámbito de atención primaria, en un área sanitaria de la comunidad de Madrid (CAM). Material y métodos Estudio transversal, multicéntrico de sujetos con tarjeta sanitaria adscritos a 69 centros de salud (área NorOeste/CAM). Se definió HS como colesterol ≥300mg/dl o colesterol-LDL ≥220mg/dl en alguna analítica realizada (1-1-2018 a 30-12-2021), y fenotipo de HF como cLDL ≥240mg/dl (≥160mg/dl si tratamiento hipolipemiante), con triglicéridos <200mg/dl y TSH <5μIU/ml. Resultados Se analizaron 156.082 adultos ≥18años con perfil lipídico disponible. 6.187 sujetos tenían HS (3,96% de las analíticas estudiadas; IC95%: 3,87-4,06%). El tiempo medio de evolución del diagnóstico de hiperlipemia en la historia clínica informatizada fue 10,8años; el 36,5% tenían hipertensión, el 9,5%, diabetes, y el 62,9%, sobrepeso/obesidad. El 83,7% tomaban hipolipemiantes (65,7% de baja/moderada y 28,6% de alta/muy-alta intensidad). El 6,1% tenían enfermedad cardiovascular (94,2% tratados con hipolipemiantes), con colesterol LDL <55, <70 y <100mg/dl de 1,8%, 5,8% y 20,2%, respectivamente (vs 1%, 2,3% y 11,2% si no había enfermedad cardiovascular). Mil seiscientos sujetos tenían fenotipo de HF (IC95%: 1,03%, 0,98-1,08%). Conclusiones Cuatro de cada 100 pacientes analizados en atención primaria tienen HS. Hay un elevado nivel de tratamiento farmacológico, pero de insuficiente intensidad, y escaso logro de objetivos terapéuticos. Uno de cada 100 tiene fenotipo de HF. La identificación de ambas situaciones por registros informatizados permitiría su detección más precisa y precoz y establecer estrategias preventivas cardiovasculares. (AU)

Objective To examine the frequency of severe hypercholesterolemia (HS) and its clinical profile, and the phenotype of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), in the primary-care setting in a large health area of the Community of Madrid (CAM). Material and methods Multicenter study of subjects with a health card assigned to 69 health centers (Northwest/CAM area). HS was defined as cholesterol ≥300mg/dL or LDL-cholesterol ≥220mg/dL in any analysis performed (1-1-2018 to 12-30-2021); and FH phenotype as c-LDL ≥240mg/dL (≥160mg/dL if lipid-lowering treatment) with triglycerides <200mg/dL and TSH <5μIU/mL. Results 156,082 adults ≥18years with an available lipid profile were analyzed. 6187 subjects had HS (3.96% of the laboratory tests studied, 95%CI: 3.87-4.06%). The mean evolution time of the diagnosis of hyperlipidemia in the computerized clinical record was 10.8years, 36.5% had hypertension, 9.5% diabetes and 62.9% overweight/obesity. 83.7% were taking lipid-lowering drugs (65.7% low/moderate and 28.6% high/very high intensity). 6.1% had cardiovascular disease (94.2% treated with lipid-lowering agents), with LDL-cholesterol <55, <70 and <100mg/dL of 1.8%, 5.8% and 20.2%, respectively (vs. 1%, 2.3% and 11.2% if no cardiovascular disease). 1600 subjects had FH phenotype (95%CI: 1.03%, 0.98-1.08%). Conclusions Four out of 100 patients analyzed in primary care have HS, with high treatment level, but insufficient intensity, and poor achievement of treatment goals. One in 100 have the FH phenotype. The identification of both dyslipidemias by computerized records would allow their more precise and early detection and establish cardiovascular preventive strategies. (AU)

Widespread xanthomas regression by personalized lipid lowering therapy in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia / Regresión generalizada de xantomas mediante terapia hipolipemiante personalizada en hipercolesterolemia familiar heterocigótica

“The lower, the better” is the recommended approach in the management of high LDL cholesterol. Unfortunately, this does not always achieve as in the case of a 69-year-old woman referred to our Institute for her lipid profile (LDL cholesterol 412mg/dl), bilateral xanthelasma and cutaneous xanthomas. With a maximized and personalized lipid-lowering therapies (rosuvastatin, ezetimibe, PCSK9i and lipoprotein apheresis), after only six months, the patient showed an impressive regression in her cutaneous xanthomas. (AU)

«Cuanto más bajo, mejor» es el enfoque recomendado en el tratamiento del colesterol LDL alto. Lamentablemente esto no siempre se logra como en el caso de una mujer de 69 años remitida a nuestro Instituto por su perfil lipídico (colesterol LDL 412 mg/dL), xantelasma bilateral y xantomas cutáneos. Con terapias hipolipemiantes maximizadas y personalizadas (rosuvastatina, ezetimiba, iPCSK9 y aféresis de lipoproteínas), después de solo seis meses, la paciente mostró una regresión impresionante en sus xantomas cutáneos. (AU)

Monacolin K supplementation in patients with hypercholesterolemia: A systematic review of clinical trials.

Monacolin K is the major active component in red yeast rice (RYR) which is structurally identical to lovastatin and has the most powerful effect, in terms of reducing blood cholesterol levels. This review aimed to examine the effect and safety of different doses of monacolin K on blood cholesterol levels. PubMed and Cochrane were searched for articles published between 2012 and 2023 for clinical-trials and randomized-controlled-trials. Eligible studies included participants>18-years-old, of any gender and ethnicity. The intervention/exposure of interest was monacolin K. Hypercholesterolemia was considered the outcome of interest defined as the elevated total or low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. 12 randomized-controlled-trials were eligible for inclusion in the analysis including 769 participants>18-years-old. 11 out of 12 studies were assessed with high methodological quality and one study with low methodological quality. Monacolin K supplementation varied between 2mg and 10mg per day and the maximum period of supplementation was 12 weeks. All studies indicated a beneficial effect of monacolin supplementation on LDL and total cholesterol levels (p<0.05) regardless the dose and period of supplementation. Also, 3 of the included studies reported adverse side effects after treatment with monacolin K. Low doses of monacolin K equal to 3mg/day exert potential cholesterol-lowering effects although the number of relative studies is limited. Regarding the safety of monacolin K supplementation, findings seem to be more controversial and therefore, it is suggested for all patients treated with monacolin K to be routinely monitored regardless the dose of supplementation.

Factors associated with the presence of tendon xanthomas in familial hypercholesterolemia.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Tendon xanthomas (TX) are lipid deposits highly specific to familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). However, there is significant variability in their presentation among FH patients, primarily due to largely unknown causes. Lipoprotein(a) is a well-established independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in the general population as well as in FH. Given the wide variability of lipoprotein(a) among FH individuals and the likelihood that TX may result from a proatherogenic and proinflammatory condition, the objective of this study was to analyze the size of TX in the Achilles tendons of FH participants and the variables associated with their presence, including lipoprotein(a) concentration. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 377 participants with a molecular diagnosis of heterozygous FH. Achilles tendon maximum thickness (ATMT) was measured using ultrasonography with standardized equipment and procedures. Demographic variables and lipid profiles were collected. A multivariate linear regression model using a log-Gaussian approach was used to predict TX size. Classical cardiovascular risk factors and lipoprotein(a) were included as explanatory variables. RESULTS: The mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was 277mg/dL without lipid-lowering treatment, and the median ATMT was 5.50mm. We demonstrated that age, sex, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a) were independently associated with ATMT. However, these 4 variables did not account for most the interindividual variability observed (R2=0.205). CONCLUSIONS: TX, a characteristic hallmark of FH, exhibit heterogeneity in their presentation. Interindividual variability can partially be explained by age, male sex, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a) but these factors account for only 20% of this heterogeneity.

Widespread xanthomas regression by personalized lipid lowering therapy in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

"The lower, the better" is the recommended approach in the management of high LDL cholesterol. Unfortunately, this does not always achieve as in the case of a 69-year-old woman referred to our Institute for her lipid profile (LDL cholesterol 412mg/dl), bilateral xanthelasma and cutaneous xanthomas. With a maximized and personalized lipid-lowering therapies (rosuvastatin, ezetimibe, PCSK9i and lipoprotein apheresis), after only six months, the patient showed an impressive regression in her cutaneous xanthomas.

Clinical profile of severe hypercholesterolemia in 156,000 adults in primary care. / Perfil clínico de la hipercolesterolemia severa en 156.000 adultos en atención primaria.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the frequency of severe hypercholesterolemia (HS) and its clinical profile, and the phenotype of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), in the primary-care setting in a large health area of the Community of Madrid (CAM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Multicenter study of subjects with a health card assigned to 69 health centers (Northwest/CAM area). HS was defined as cholesterol ≥300mg/dL or LDL-cholesterol ≥220mg/dL in any analysis performed (1-1-2018 to 12-30-2021); and FH phenotype as c-LDL ≥240mg/dL (≥160mg/dL if lipid-lowering treatment) with triglycerides <200mg/dL and TSH <5µIU/mL. RESULTS: 156,082 adults ≥18years with an available lipid profile were analyzed. 6187 subjects had HS (3.96% of the laboratory tests studied, 95%CI: 3.87-4.06%). The mean evolution time of the diagnosis of hyperlipidemia in the computerized clinical record was 10.8years, 36.5% had hypertension, 9.5% diabetes and 62.9% overweight/obesity. 83.7% were taking lipid-lowering drugs (65.7% low/moderate and 28.6% high/very high intensity). 6.1% had cardiovascular disease (94.2% treated with lipid-lowering agents), with LDL-cholesterol <55, <70 and <100mg/dL of 1.8%, 5.8% and 20.2%, respectively (vs. 1%, 2.3% and 11.2% if no cardiovascular disease). 1600 subjects had FH phenotype (95%CI: 1.03%, 0.98-1.08%). CONCLUSIONS: Four out of 100 patients analyzed in primary care have HS, with high treatment level, but insufficient intensity, and poor achievement of treatment goals. One in 100 have the FH phenotype. The identification of both dyslipidemias by computerized records would allow their more precise and early detection and establish cardiovascular preventive strategies.

Estudio observacional de pacientes de una Unidad de Lípidos en tratamiento hipolipemiante para prevención primaria y secundaria: Estudio ULFI / Observational study of patients from a Lipid Unit on lipid-modifying therapy for primary and secondary prevention: ULFI Study

Objetivos: Evaluar la consecución de los objetivos de colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de baja densidad (cLDL) establecidos por las guías europeas de manejo de las dislipemias de 2019 y de prevención cardiovascular de 2021, describir el tratamiento hipolipemiante realizado, analizar el logro de los objetivos según el tratamiento hipolipemiante recibido y estudiar los factores asociados al éxito terapéutico. Diseño: Estudio observacional con 185 pacientes de ambos sexos de 18 años o más en tratamiento hipolipemiante para prevención primaria o secundaria, atendidos en la Unidad de Lípidos. Resultados: El 62,1% de los pacientes presentó un riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) muy alto según la guía de 2019, y el 60,5% según la de 2021. Del total de casos, el 22,7% logró un control adecuado del cLDL según la guía de 2019 y el 20% lo hizo de acuerdo con la de 2021. El 47,6% de los pacientes recibió tratamiento hipolipemiante de muy alta intensidad y el 14,1% lo recibió de extremadamente alta intensidad. El 76% de los sujetos con muy alto RCV en tratamiento hipolipemiante de extremadamente alta intensidad logró los objetivos terapéuticos de ambas guías. En el análisis multivariante, los factores asociados al éxito terapéutico fueron la presencia de enfermedad cardiovascular arteriosclerótica, la intensidad del tratamiento hipolipemiante, la diabetes mellitus y el consumo bajo o moderado de alcohol. Conclusiones: El control de la dislipemia es mejorable. Los tratamientos hipolipemiantes de alta o extremadamente alta intensidad pueden contribuir a optimizar el control de los pacientes con mayor RCV. (AU)

Objectives: To evaluate the achievement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) goals established by the 2019 European Guidelines for the Management of Dyslipidemias and 2021 Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Guidelines, describe the lipid-lowering treatment received, analyze the achievement of goals according to the lipid-lowering treatment received and study the factors associated with therapeutic success. Design: Observational study that included 185 patients of both sexes aged 18 or over undergoing lipid-lowering treatment for primary or secondary prevention, attended at the Lipid Unit. Results: 62.1% of the patients had a very high cardiovascular risk (CVR) according to the 2019 guidelines, and 60.5% according to the 2021 guidelines. Of the total cases, 22.7% achieved adequate control of LDLc according to the 2019 guidelines and 20% according to the 2021 guidelines. 47.6% of the patients received very high intensity lipid-lowering treatment, and 14.1% received extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatment. 76% of subjects with very high CVR on extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatment achieved the therapeutic objectives of both guides. In the multivariate analysis, factors associated with therapeutic success were the presence of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the intensity of lipid-lowering treatment, diabetes mellitus, and low to moderate alcohol consumption. Conclusions: Dyslipidemia control is improvable. High or extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatments can contribute to optimizing control of patients with higher CVR. (AU)

Alimentos funcionales y nutracéuticos en el tratamiento de la hipercolesterolemia: posicionamiento de la Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis 2023 / Functional foods and nutraceuticals in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia: Statement of the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis 2023

Para el tratamiento de la hipercolesterolemia, además de aconsejar una alimentación saludable, puede ser conveniente recomendar alimentos funcionales o nutracéuticos con efecto hipolipemiante. Dado el progresivo incremento en el número de estos productos y su creciente utilización por la población, la Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis (SEA) ha creído conveniente revisar la información disponible, seleccionar los resultados de los estudios científicamente más sólidos y posicionarse sobre la utilidad de los mismos, para recomendar a los profesionales sanitarios y a la población general su potencial utilidad en términos de eficacia y sus posibles beneficios y limitaciones. Se han identificado los siguientes escenarios clínicos en los que se podrían utilizar estos productos y que se analizarán con más detalle en este documento: 1. Tratamiento hipolipemiante en sujetos con intolerancia a estatinas. 2. Tratamiento hipolipemiante «a la carta» en personas en prevención primaria. 3. Prevención cardiovascular a largo plazo en personas sin indicación de tratamiento hipolipemiante. 4. Pacientes con tratamiento hipolipemiante optimizado que no alcanzan objetivos terapéuticos. (AU)

In the management of hypercholesterolemia, besides advising a healthy, plant-based diet, it may be useful to recommend functional foods or nutraceutical with cholesterol-lowering properties. Given the progressive increase in the number of these products and their rising use by the population, the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis (SEA) has considered it appropriate to review the available information, select the results of the scientifically more robust studies and take a position on their usefulness, to recommend to health professionals and the general population their potential utility in terms of efficacy and their possible benefits and limitations. The following clinical scenarios have been identified in which these products could be used and will be analyzed in more detail in this document: (1) Hypolipidemic treatment in subjects with statin intolerance. (2) Hypolipidemic treatment «a la carte» in individuals in primary prevention. (3) Long-term cardiovascular prevention in individuals with no indication for lipid-lowering therapy. (4) Patients with optimized lipid-lowering treatment who do not achieve therapeutic objectives. (AU)

Carga económica de la hipercolesterolemia en población con alto riesgo cardiovascular en México / Economic burden of hypercholesterolemia in high risk of cardiovascular disease population in Mexico

Resumen Objetivo: Se estimó la carga económica directa e indirecta de la hipercolesterolemia en población con alto riesgo de presentar un evento cardiovascular. Para ello se definieron específicamente cinco grupos de pacientes: 1) aquellos con hipercolesterolemia familiar; 2, 3 y 4) personas con hipercolesterolemia más el antecedente de diabetes, infarto o evento vascular cerebral; 5) pacientes con hipercolesterolemia más diabetes y antecedente de infarto agudo de miocardio (definidos como pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular). Los cálculos se hicieron desde la perspectiva de las instituciones de salud pública en México. Método: Para la estimación de los costos directos se incluyó la atención ambulatoria, el tratamiento farmacológico, la atención hospitalaria y las intervenciones quirúrgicas relacionadas con las enfermedades cardiovasculares. Para la carga económica indirecta, se consideraron las muertes reportadas específicamente por causa de hipercolesterolemia, en un momento anterior al final de la edad productiva (muerte prematura). Resultados: La carga económica directa de las cinco categorías de pacientes en riesgo consideradas es de MXN $39,601,464,154 (USD $1,987,526,432), mientras que la carga económica indirecta asciende a MXN $121,646,689 (USD $6,105,229). Conclusiones: El impacto económico de la hipercolesterolemia en población con alto riesgo cardiovascular correspondía a $39,723,110,843 en 2020 (equivalente a USD $1,993,631,661), equivalente al 0.16% del PIB nacional.

Abstract Objective: To estimate the direct and indirect economic burden of hypercholesterolemia in patients with high risk of a cardiovascular event, specifically there were defined 5 groups of patients: 1) familial hypercholesterolemia; 2, 3 and 4) patients with hypercholesterolemia and background of diabetes, myocardial infarction or stroke; 5) diabetes, myocardial infarction and hypercholesterolemia (very high-risk patients) from the Mexican public healthcare institutions. Methods: For the estimation of the direct costs the items included correspond to: outpatient care, pharmacological treatment, inpatient hospital care, and surgical procedures. For indirect economic burden, death certificates, before the end of the productive age due to hypercholesterolemia were calculated (premature mortality). Results: The direct economic burden for the 5 groups of patients at risk is MXN $39,601,464,154 (USD $1,987,526,432), while the indirect economic burden amounts to MXN $121,646,689 (USD $6,105,229). Conclusions: The economic impact of hypercholesterolemia in patients with high cardiovascular risk is $39,723,110,843 (equivalent to USD $1,993,631,661) and corresponds to the 0.16% of GDP.

Economic burden of hypercholesterolemia in high risk of cardiovascular disease population in Mexico.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the direct and indirect economic burden of hypercholesterolemia in patients with high risk of a cardiovascular event, specifically there were defined 5 groups of patients: 1) familial hypercholesterolemia; 2, 3 and 4) patients with hypercholesterolemia and background of diabetes, myocardial infarction or stroke; 5) diabetes, myocardial infarction and hypercholesterolemia (very high-risk patients) from the Mexican public healthcare institutions. METHODS: For the estimation of the direct costs the items included correspond to: outpatient care, pharmacological treatment, inpatient hospital care, and surgical procedures. For indirect economic burden, death certificates, before the end of the productive age due to hypercholesterolemia were calculated (premature mortality). RESULTS: The direct economic burden for the 5 groups of patients at risk is MXN $39,601,464,154 (USD $1,987,526,432), while the indirect economic burden amounts to MXN $121,646,689 (USD $6,105,229). CONCLUSIONS: The economic impact of hypercholesterolemia in patients with high cardiovascular risk is $39,723,110,843 (equivalent to USD $1,993,631,661) and corresponds to the 0.16% of GDP.

OBJETIVO: Se estimó la carga económica directa e indirecta de la hipercolesterolemia en población con alto riesgo de presentar un evento cardiovascular. Para ello se definieron específicamente cinco grupos de pacientes: 1) aquellos con hipercolesterolemia familiar; 2, 3 y 4) personas con hipercolesterolemia más el antecedente de diabetes, infarto o evento vascular cerebral; 5) pacientes con hipercolesterolemia más diabetes y antecedente de infarto agudo de miocardio (definidos como pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular). Los cálculos se hicieron desde la perspectiva de las instituciones de salud pública en México. MÉTODO: Para la estimación de los costos directos se incluyó la atención ambulatoria, el tratamiento farmacológico, la atención hospitalaria y las intervenciones quirúrgicas relacionadas con las enfermedades cardiovasculares. Para la carga económica indirecta, se consideraron las muertes reportadas específicamente por causa de hipercolesterolemia, en un momento anterior al final de la edad productiva (muerte prematura). RESULTADOS: La carga económica directa de las cinco categorías de pacientes en riesgo consideradas es de MXN $39,601,464,154 (USD $1,987,526,432), mientras que la carga económica indirecta asciende a MXN $121,646,689 (USD $6,105,229). CONCLUSIONES: El impacto económico de la hipercolesterolemia en población con alto riesgo cardiovascular correspondía a $39,723,110,843 en 2020 (equivalente a USD $1,993,631,661), equivalente al 0.16% del PIB nacional.

Tendencia del programa de intervención en DemoMinga, como estrategia para mejorar las dislipidemias y glucemia en la población Norma Luisa, Minga Guazú / Trend of the DemoMinga intervention program as a strategy to improve dyslipidemia and glycemia in the Norma Luisa population, Minga Guazú

Antecedentes: Las enfermedades no transmisibles siguen siendo un problema creciente en el mundo, sobre todo en los países de mediano y bajo ingresos. Los programas de intervención comunitaria se enfocan en su disminución mediante cambios en estilos de vida más saludables. Objetivos: Analizar la tendencia del programa de intervención en actividad física y nutrición, como estrategia para mejorar las dislipidemias y glucemia en los participantes del proyecto DemoMinga. Materiales y métodos: Estudio con enfoque cuantitativo. Diseño de investigación acción participativa, de carácter longitudinal, prospectivo. La población estuvo constituida por los participantes del Proyecto DemoMinga. Se determinó en cada participante: colesterol total, triglicéridos y glucemia en ayunas. Las muestras fueron procesadas en el Centro de Investigaciones Médicas de la FACISA-UNE. Se determinaron indicadores de tendencia central (mediana) de cada una de las variables. Resultados: Hubo mayor participación del sexo femenino, con predominio de personas con menos de 45 años. Las mediciones químicas arrojaron una tendencia de disminución a partir del quinto año de intervención, con talleres de cocina saludable incluyendo uso de aceite alto oleico, y actividad física. Sin embargo, la prueba no arrojó diferencias significativas de las mediciones entre la línea de base y el corte a los 6 años. Conclusión: El estudio resalta la importancia de los programas de intervención mediante terapias integrales para la promoción y prevención de las enfermedades cardiometabólicas a largo plazo.

Background: Non-communicable diseases remain a growing problem worldwide, especially in middle and low-income countries. Community intervention programs are focused on reducing their prevalence through promoting healthier lifestyle changes. Objectives: To analyze the trend of the physical activity and nutrition intervention program as a strategy to improve dyslipidemia and glycemia among participants of the DemoMinga project. Materials and methods: This study employed a quantitative approach with a participatory action research design, characterized as longitudinal and prospective. The population consisted of participants from the DemoMinga Project. For each participant, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glycemia were measured. Samples were processed at the Medical Research Center of FACISA-UNE. Indicators of central tendency (median) were determined for each of the variables. Results: There was a higher participation of females, with a predominance of individuals under the age of 45. Chemical measurements showed a decreasing trend starting from the fifth year of intervention, involving healthy cooking workshops that included the use of high oleic oil and physical activity. However, the test did not yield significant differences in measurements between the baseline and the 6-year cutoff. Conclusion: The study highlights the significance of intervention programs using comprehensive therapies for the long-term promotion and prevention of cardiometabolic diseases.

Tendencia del programa de intervención en DemoMinga, como estrategia para mejorar las dislipidemias y glucemia en la población Norma Luisa, Minga Guazú

Antecedentes: Las enfermedades no transmisibles siguen siendo un problema creciente en el mundo, sobre todo en los países de mediano y bajo ingresos. Los programas de intervención comunitaria se enfocan en su disminución mediante cambios en estilos de vida más saludables. Objetivos: Analizar la tendencia del programa de intervención en actividad física y nutrición, como estrategia para mejorar las dislipidemias y glucemia en los participantes del proyecto DemoMinga. Materiales y métodos: Estudio con enfoque cuantitativo. Diseño de investigación acción participativa, de carácter longitudinal, prospectivo. La población estuvo constituida por los participantes del Proyecto DemoMinga. Se determinó en cada participante: colesterol total, triglicéridos y glucemia en ayunas. Las muestras fueron procesadas en el Centro de Investigaciones Médicas de la FACISA-UNE. Se determinaron indicadores de tendencia central (mediana) de cada una de las variables. Resultados: Hubo mayor participación del sexo femenino, con predominio de personas con menos de 45 años. Las mediciones químicas arrojaron una tendencia de disminución a partir del quinto año de intervención, con talleres de cocina saludable incluyendo uso de aceite alto oleico, y actividad física. Sin embargo, la prueba no arrojó diferencias significativas de las mediciones entre la línea de base y el corte a los 6 años. Conclusión: El estudio resalta la importancia de los programas de intervención mediante terapias integrales para la promoción y prevención de las enfermedades cardiometabólicas a largo plazo.

Background: Non-communicable diseases remain a growing problem worldwide, especially in middle and low-income countries. Community intervention programs are focused on reducing their prevalence through promoting healthier lifestyle changes. Objectives: To analyze the trend of the physical activity and nutrition intervention program as a strategy to improve dyslipidemia and glycemia among participants of the DemoMinga project. Materials and methods: This study employed a quantitative approach with a participatory action research design, characterized as longitudinal and prospective. The population consisted of participants from the DemoMinga Project. For each participant, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glycemia were measured. Samples were processed at the Medical Research Center of FACISA-UNE. Indicators of central tendency (median) were determined for each of the variables. Results: There was a higher participation of females, with a predominance of individuals under the age of 45. Chemical measurements showed a decreasing trend starting from the fifth year of intervention, involving healthy cooking workshops that included the use of high oleic oil and physical activity. However, the test did not yield significant differences in measurements between the baseline and the 6-year cutoff. Conclusion: The study highlights the significance of intervention programs using comprehensive therapies for the long-term promotion and prevention of cardiometabolic diseases.

Observational study of patients from a Lipid Unit on lipid-modifying therapy for primary and secondary prevention: ULFI Study. / Estudio observacional de pacientes de una Unidad de Lípidos en tratamiento hipolipemiante para prevención primaria y secundaria: Estudio ULFI.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the achievement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) goals established by the 2019 European Guidelines for the Management of Dyslipidemias and 2021 Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Guidelines, describe the lipid-lowering treatment received, analyze the achievement of goals according to the lipid-lowering treatment received and study the factors associated with therapeutic success. DESIGN: Observational study that included 185 patients of both sexes aged 18 or over undergoing lipid-lowering treatment for primary or secondary prevention, attended at the Lipid Unit. RESULTS: 62.1% of the patients had a very high cardiovascular risk (CVR) according to the 2019 guidelines, and 60.5% according to the 2021 guidelines. Of the total cases, 22.7% achieved adequate control of LDLc according to the 2019 guidelines and 20% according to the 2021 guidelines. 47.6% of the patients received very high intensity lipid-lowering treatment, and 14.1% received extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatment. 76% of subjects with very high CVR on extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatment achieved the therapeutic objectives of both guides. In the multivariate analysis, factors associated with therapeutic success were the presence of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the intensity of lipid-lowering treatment, diabetes mellitus, and low to moderate alcohol consumption. CONCLUSIONS: Dyslipidemia control is improvable. High or extremely high intensity lipid-lowering treatments can contribute to optimizing control of patients with higher CVR.

Functional foods and nutraceuticals in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia: Statement of the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis 2023. / Alimentos funcionales y nutracéuticos en el tratamiento de la hipercolesterolemia: posicionamiento de la Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis 2023.

In the management of hypercholesterolemia, besides advising a healthy, plant-based diet, it may be useful to recommend functional foods or nutraceutical with cholesterol-lowering properties. Given the progressive increase in the number of these products and their rising use by the population, the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis (SEA) has considered it appropriate to review the available information, select the results of the scientifically more robust studies and take a position on their usefulness, to recommend to health professionals and the general population their potential utility in terms of efficacy and their possible benefits and limitations. The following clinical scenarios have been identified in which these products could be used and will be analyzed in more detail in this document: (1) Hypolipidemic treatment in subjects with statin intolerance. (2) Hypolipidemic treatment «a la carte¼ in individuals in primary prevention. (3) Long-term cardiovascular prevention in individuals with no indication for lipid-lowering therapy. (4) Patients with optimized lipid-lowering treatment who do not achieve therapeutic objectives.

Tendencias en el uso de estatinas tras un ictus isquémico. ¿Hemos cambiado nuestra práctica clínica? / Trends in the use of statins after ischaemic stroke: Have clinical practices changed?

Introducción: El papel de las estatinas tras el ictus isquémico cambió con la publicación del estudio SPARCL en 2006. Nos planteamos valorar cómo ha influido en la prescripción de estatinas en esta población.MétodoEstudio retrospectivo de las altas por ictus isquémico en los hospitales Virgen Macarena, Virgen del Rocío y Valme de Sevilla durante dos periodos: 1999-2001 y 2014-2016.ResultadoIncluimos 1.575 pacientes, 661 (42%) mujeres, edad media 69 (± 10) años. Comparando los dos períodos, los pacientes del grupo post-SPARCL tienen mayor edad (68 ± 10 vs. 71 ± 11, p = 0,0001), mayor proporción de mujeres y mayor frecuencia de dislipidemia, hipertensión y diabetes. Al alta se utilizaron estatinas en el 18,7% frente al 86,9% (p = 0,0001), y estatinas de alta intensidad en el 11,1% frente al 54,4% (p = 0,0001), respectivamente. En ambos períodos la atorvastatina fue la estatina más recetada (80 mg, 6% vs. 42,7%; 40 mg, 5,1% vs. 11,1%). En el primer grupo, el uso de estatinas y de estatinas de alta intensidad se correlacionó con la hipercolesterolemia, y de forma inversa con la edad. En el segundo grupo, el uso de estatinas se correlacionó con la hipertensión y la hipercolesterolemia, y el de estatinas de alta intensidad, con la cardiopatía isquémica y, de forma inversa, con la edad.ConclusiónExiste un cambio evidente en la prescripción de estatinas al alta en pacientes con ictus isquémico. No obstante, muchos pacientes siguen infratratados y es preciso optimizar su uso. (AU)

Introduction: The role of statins after ischaemic stroke changed with the publication of the SPARCL study in 2006. We analyse how this has influenced the prescription of statins in this patient population.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of patients discharged with ischaemic stroke at the Virgen Macarena, Virgen del Rocío, and Valme hospitals in Seville (Spain) over two periods: 1999-2001 and 2014-2016.ResultsThe study included 1575 patients: 661 (42%) were women and mean age (standard deviation) was 69 (10) years. Patients from the later period are older (68 [10] vs 71 [11]; P = .0001); include a higher proportion of women; and present higher rates of dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and diabetes. At discharge, statins were used in 18.7% of patients (vs 86.9% in the first period; P = .0001), with high-intensity statins prescribed in 11.1% of cases (vs 54.4%; P = .0001). In both periods, atorvastatin was the most commonly prescribed statin (80 mg: 6% vs 42.7%; 40 mg: 5.1% vs 11.1%). In the first period, the use of statins and high-intensity statins was correlated with hypercholesterolaemia, and inversely correlated with age. In the second period, statin use was correlated with hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia, and high-intensity statin use was correlated with ischaemic heart disease and inversely correlated with age.ConclusionThere has been a clear change in the prescription of statins to patients with ischaemic stroke at discharge. However, many patients remain undertreated and the use of these drugs needs to be optimised. (AU)

Trends in the use of statins after ischaemic stroke: Have clinical practices changed?

INTRODUCTION: The role of statins after ischaemic stroke changed with the publication of the SPARCL study in 2006. We analyse how this has influenced the prescription of statins in this patient population. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of patients discharged with ischaemic stroke at the Virgen Macarena, Virgen del Rocío, and Valme hospitals in Seville (Spain) over two periods: 1999-2001 and 2014-2016. RESULTS: The study included 1575 patients: 661 (42%) were women and mean age (standard deviation) was 69 (10) years. Patients from the later period are older (68 [10] vs 71 [11]; P = .0001); include a higher proportion of women; and present higher rates of dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and diabetes. At discharge, statins were used in 18.7% of patients (vs 86.9% in the first period; P = .0001), with high-intensity statins prescribed in 11.1% of cases (vs 54.4%; P = .0001). In both periods, atorvastatin was the most commonly prescribed statin (80 mg: 6% vs 42.7%; 40 mg: 5.1% vs 11.1%). In the first period, the use of statins and high-intensity statins was correlated with hypercholesterolaemia, and inversely correlated with age. In the second period, statin use was correlated with hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia, and high-intensity statin use was correlated with ischaemic heart disease and inversely correlated with age. CONCLUSION: There has been a clear change in the prescription of statins to patients with ischaemic stroke at discharge. However, many patients remain undertreated and the use of these drugs needs to be optimised.

Xantelasma palpebral: tratamento cirúrgico como primeira escolha / Eyelid Xanthelasma: surgical treatment as the first choice

Introdução: O xantelasma palpebral é a forma mais comum de xantoma cutâneo, caracterizado por placas amareladas localizadas na pele das pálpebras. Apesar de ser uma condição benigna e não cursar com limitação funcional, é uma importante queixa estética que tem impacto na vida social e emocional do portador. Existem opções terapêuticas clínicas, mas a abordagem mais difundida é a cirúrgica com excisão das lesões, procedimento simples, com poucas complicações e menores taxas de recidivas locais. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever o tratamento cirúrgico do xantelasma palpebral, avaliar a satisfação dos pacientes no pós-operatório e as taxas de recidivas pós-cirúrgicas. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo realizado com uma amostra de 25 pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico de xantelasmas palpebrais. O acompanhamento pós-operatório foi realizado em intervalos de 7 dias, 30 dias, 90 dias e 12 meses com entrevista, exame físico e aplicação de questionário que contemplaram identificação de recidivas locais, complicações pós-operatórias e satisfação com o resultado estético. Resultados: Quatro pacientes evoluíram com recidiva local e apenas dois pacientes manifestaram insatisfação com o resultado estético após o desfecho final. Em nenhum paciente submetido a ressecção cirúrgica das lesões associadas à autoenxertia foi observada recorrência ou insatisfação com o resultado estético. Conclusões: O tratamento cirúrgico como primeira opção na abordagem terapêutica dos xantelasmas palpebrais deve ser considerado, visto o impacto estético e psicológico de tal afecção. É uma técnica simples, de fácil aplicação e reprodutibilidade, eficaz, segura, com relevantes taxas de satisfação e baixa ocorrência de recidivas.

Introduction: Eyelid xanthelasma is the most common form of cutaneous xanthoma, characterized by yellowish patches on the eyelid's skin. Despite being a benign condition and not presenting with functional limitations, it is an important aesthetic complaint that impacts the patient's social and emotional life. There are clinical therapeutic options, but the most widespread approach is the surgical approach with excision of the lesions, a simple procedure with few complications and lower local recurrence rates. This study aims to describe the surgical treatment of palpebral xanthelasma, to assess postoperative patient satisfaction and post-surgical recurrence rates. Methods: This is a retrospective study with a sample of 25 patients undergoing surgical treatment of eyelid xanthelasmas. Postoperative follow-up was performed at intervals of 7 days, 30 days, 90 days and 12 months with an interview, physical examination and application of a questionnaire that included the identification of local recurrences, postoperative complications and satisfaction with the aesthetic result. Results: Four patients evolved with local recurrence, and only two expressed dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result after the outcome. No patient who underwent surgical resection of lesions associated with autograft recurrence or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result was observed. Conclusions: Surgical treatment as the first option in the therapeutic approach of eyelid xanthelasmas should be considered, given the aesthetic and psychological impact of such a condition. It is a simple technique, easy to apply and reproducible, effective, and safe, with relevant satisfaction rates and low recurrences.

Inclisiran, ARN interferente pequeño: un nuevo enfoque para el tratamiento del colesterol / Inclisiran, small interfering RNA: a new approach to cholesterol treatment

Resumen: La hiperlipidemia es altamente prevalente y contribuye de forma sustancial a la enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica, que es una de las principales causas de morbilidad y mortalidad en Colombia. La reducción del colesterol LDL (c-LDL) produce una disminución del riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica y de eventos cardiovasculares adversos. La terapia dirigida a la proproteína convertasa subtilisina/kexina tipo 9 (PCSK9; su sigla en inglés) ha surgido como una herramienta novedosa para el tratamiento de la hiperlipidemia. Inclisiran es un ARN pequeño de doble hebra, que actúa inhibiendo la transcripción de PCSK-9 en los hepatocitos, lo que conduce a una reducción marcada y sostenida del c-LDL. En contraste con otras terapias hipolipemiantes, como estatinas, ezetimibe y anticuerpos monoclonales (MAbs; su sigla en inglés) e inhibidores de PCSK9, inclisiran propone un régimen de dosificación infrecuente de dos o tres veces al año. Su efecto prolongado representa una ventaja frente al incumplimiento del tratamiento, que es una de las principales causas por las que no se alcanzan los objetivos de c-LDL con la terapia estándar. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo presentar y discutir los datos científicos actuales con relación a la eficacia, tolerabilidad y seguridad del inclisiran en el tratamiento de la hipercolesterolemia.

Abstract: Hyperlipidemia is a highly prevalent condition and contributes substantially to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in Colombia. The reduction of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) decreases the risk of ASCVD and adverse cardiovascular events. Targeted therapy for the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK-9) has emerged as a novel tool for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Inclisiran is a small double-stranded small interfering RNA that acts by blocking PCSK-9 transcription in hepatocytes, leading to a marked and sustained reduction in circulating LDL-C levels. In contrast to other lipid-lowering therapies such as statins, ezetimibe and monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) PCSK-9 inhibitors, Inclisiran proposes an infrequent dosing regimen of twice or three times a year. Its prolonged effect represents an advantage over non-compliance of the treatment, which is one of the main reasons why LDL-C goals are not achieved with standard therapy. This review aims to present and discuss current scientific data regarding the efficacy, tolerability and safety of Inclisiran in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.

¿Por qué los osos pardos están protegidos contra la aterosclerosis a pesar de que sus niveles de colesterol plasmático doblan al de los humanos? / Why are brown bears protected against atherosclerosis even though their plasma cholesterol levels are twice that of humans?

Los niveles plasmáticos de colesterol y triglicéridos son 2 veces más altos en los osos pardos (Ursus arctos) durante el periodo de hibernación que en los humanos sanos. Sin embargo, los osos no muestran signos de desarrollo de aterosclerosis. Para explorar esta aparente paradoja, analizamos lipoproteínas del plasmas de 10 osos recolectados durante el invierno (hibernación: febrero) y verano (activo: junio) en el mismo año. El plasma de 14 humanos sanos se analizó como comparador. Se utilizaron métodos estándar para el aislamiento de lipoproteínas, la composición y la investigación funcional. Los resultados muestran que en los osos pardos la ausencia de aterosclerosis a pesar del colesterol elevado probablemente se asocie con 2 propiedades ateroprotectoras principales de las lipoproteínas circulantes. En primer lugar, una afinidad significativamente, 10 veces menor, de las partículas de lipoproteínas de baja densidad (LDL) por los proteoglicanos arteriales y, en segundo lugar, una capacidad elevada de eflujo de colesterol en plasma comparado con humanos. ¿Qué nos dicen los datos del oso pardo? Ese colesterol total elevado y las lipoproteínas que contienen ApoB no siempre se asocian con la enfermedad de aterosclerosis. Necesitamos observar también las características bioquímicas y la funcionalidad de las lipoproteínas, ya que son relevantes para la fisiopatología arterial. ¿Cuál es la traducibilidad al humano de estos resultados? Los humanos necesitamos controlar nuestros niveles de colesterol total y LDL. ¡No somos osos pardos!.(AU)

Plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels are twice as high in hibernating brown bears (Ursus arctos) than in healthy humans. Yet, bears display no sign of atherosclerosis development. To explore this apparent paradox, we analyzed lipoproteins from same ten individual bears plasma collected during winter (hibernation; February) and summer (active; June) in the same year. Plasma from fourteen healthy humans were analyzed as comparator. We used standard methods for lipoprotein isolation, composition and functional investigation. The results shows that in brown bears the absence of atherosclerosis despite elevated cholesterol is likely associated with two main athero-protective properties of circulating lipoproteins. First, a significant ten times lower affinity of low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) particles for arterial proteoglycans and secondly, an elevated plasma cholesterol efflux capacity. What does the brown bear data tell us? That elevated total cholesterol and ApoB-containing lipoproteins not always associates with atherosclerosis disease. We need to look also at the lipoprotein biochemical features and functionality as they are relevant for arterial pathophysiology. What is the translatability into human of these results? We humans need to control our total and LDL-cholesterol levels. We are not brown bears!.(AU)