Factors associated with disease progression in patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure anticoagulated with rivaroxaban.

BACKGROUND: Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) have a high risk of thromboembolism and other outcomes and anticoagulation is recommended. HYPOTHESIS: This study was aimed to explore the risk factors associated with HF worsening in patients with AF and HF taking rivaroxaban in Spain. METHODS: Multicenter, prospective, observational study that included adults with AF and chronic HF, receiving rivaroxaban ≥4 months before entering. HF worsening was defined as first hospitalization or emergency visit because of HF exacerbation. RESULTS: A total of 672 patients from 71 Spanish centers were recruited, of whom 658 (97.9%) were included in the safety analysis and 552 (82.1%) in the per protocol analysis. At baseline, mean age was 73.7 ± 10.9 years, 64.9% were male, CHA2 DS2 -VASc was 4.1 ± 1.5, HAS-BLED was 1.6 ± 0.9% and 51.3% had HF with preserved ejection fraction. After 24 months of follow-up, 24.9% of patients developed HF worsening, 11.6% died, 2.9% had a thromboembolic event, 3.1% a major bleeding, 0.5% an intracranial bleeding and no patient had a fatal hemorrhage. Older age, the history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the previous use of vitamin K antagonists, and restrictive or infiltrative cardiomyopathies, were independently associated with HF worsening. Only 6.9% of patients permanently discontinued rivaroxaban treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately one out of four patients with HF and AF treated with rivaroxaban developed a HF worsening episode after 2 years of follow-up. The identification of those factors that increase the risk of HF worsening could be helpful in the comprehensive management of this population.

Mid-regional proatrial natriuretic peptide for predicting prognosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

OBJECTIVES: N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) predicts mortality and the development of heart failure in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Mid-regional proatrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) is a stable by-product of production of atrial natriuretic peptide. We sought to compare the prognostic value of MR-proANP and NT-proBNP in HCM. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled a cohort of patients with HCM from different European centres and followed them. All patients had clinical, ECG and echocardiographic evaluation and measurement of MR-proANP and NT-proBNP at inclusion. RESULTS: Of 357 patients enrolled, the median age was 52 (IQR: 36-65) years. MR-proANP and NT-proBNP were both independently associated with age, weight, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), wall thickness and left atrial dimension. During a median follow-up of 23 months, 32 patients had a primary end point defined as death (n=6), heart transplantation (n=8), left ventricular assist device implantation (n=1) or heart failure hospitalisation (n=17). Both NT-proBNP and MR-proANP (p<10-4) were strongly associated with the primary endpoint, and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for both peptides were not significantly different. However, in a multiple stepwise regression analysis, the best model for predicting outcome was NYHA 1-2 vs 3-4 (HR=0.35, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.77, p<0.01), LVEF (HR=0.96, 95% CI 0.94 to 0.98, p=0.0005) and MR-proANP (HR=3.77, 95% CI 2.01 to 7.08, p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: MR-proANP emerges as a valuable biomarker for the prediction of death and heart failure related events in patients with HCM.

Estimación del porcentaje de pacientes con enfermedad coronaria estable candidatos a recibir inhibidores de la PCSK9 / Estimated percentage of patients with stable coronary heart disease candidates for PCSK9 inhibitors

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Cardiac resynchronization therapy is associated with a reduction in ICD therapies as it improves ventricular function.

BACKGROUND: Repeated implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapies cause myocardial damage and, thus, an increased risk of arrhythmias and mortality. HYPOTHESIS: Cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) reduces the number of appropriate therapies in patients with left ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] <50%). METHODS: The retrospective study involved 175 consecutive patients (mean age, 64.6 ±10.4 years; 86.9% males) with reduced LVEF of 27.9% ±7.6% treated with an ICD (56.6%) or CRT-D (43.4%), according to standard indications, between January 2009 and July 2014. Devices were placed for either primary (54.3%) or secondary prevention (45.7%). Mean follow-up was 2.5 ±1.5 years. Predictors of first appropriate therapy were assessed using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: Forty-four (25.1%) patients received ≥1 appropriate therapy. Although patients treated with CRT-D had lower LVEF and poorer New York Heart Association class, CRT-D patients with LVEF improvement >35% at the end of follow-up had a significantly lower risk of receiving a first appropriate therapy relative to those with an ICD (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.24, 95% confidence interval: 0.07-0.83, P = 0.025), independently of ischemic cardiomyopathy, baseline LVEF, and secondary prevention. There were no differences in mortality between the ICD and the CRT-D groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although patients receiving CRT-D had a worse clinical profile, they received fewer device therapies in comparison with those receiving an ICD. This reduction is associated with a significant improvement in LVEF.

E/e' ratio and left atrial area are predictors of atrial fibrillation in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

INTRODUCTION: Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs in about 20%-25% of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and is associated with increased risk of cardioembolism and heart failure impacting on patients' morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to identify echocardiographic predictors of AF in a cohort of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). METHODS: Patients were recruited from 2 centers: Buenos Aires Cardiovascular Institute and the Hospital Vall d'Hebron of Barcelona which were analyzed together. Retrospective study using electronic charts. RESULTS: A total of 321 patients with HCM and no documented history of AF were included. Median follow-up was 3 years. Mean age was 54 ± 16 years. Obstructive HCM was present in 41% of the patients, and 94.2% had preserved systolic function. Thirty-eight patients developed AF during the follow-up period (11.8%). Univariate analysis showed that age, maximum myocardial thickness, atrial area, an E/e' ratio ≥ 17, and systolic pulmonary pressure estimated by echocardiography were associated with new-onset AF. Multivariate analysis showed that E/e' ≥ 17 ratio {HR 3.27 ([1.10-9.27] P = .033)} and atrial area {HR 1.06 ([1.01-1.13] P = .037)} remained predictors of AF. CONCLUSIONS: An E/e' ratio ≥ 17, as an expression of left ventricular filling pressures with impact on the left atrium, and left atrial area ≥28 cm2 are strong predictors of AF in patients with HCM.

A risk score to predict the absence of left ventricular reverse remodeling: Implications for the timing of ICD implantation in primary prevention.

BACKGROUND: A prophylactic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) in patients with heart failure and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) is only indicated when left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reassessment remains ≤35% after 3-6 months on optimal pharmacological therapy. However, LVEF may not improve during this period and the patient may be exposed to an unnecessary risk of sudden cardiac death. This study aimed to determine the incidence and predictors of the absence of left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) after pharmacological treatment optimization in patients with HFrEF to design a risk score of absence of LVRR. METHODS: Consecutive outpatients with LVEF ≤35% were included in this observational prospective study. Up-titration of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and ivabradine was performed in our Heart Failure (HF) Unit. The absence of LVRR was defined as the persistence of an LVEF ≤35% at the 6-month follow-up. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty patients were included. At the 6-month follow-up, 64%, 76%, 72%, and 7% of patients were at 100% of the target dose of ACE inhibitors/ARBs, beta-blockers, MRAs, and ivabradine, respectively. LVRR was observed in 48% of the patients. Ischemic cardiomyopathy, prolonged HF duration, and larger left ventricular end-diastolic diameter index (LVEDDI) were independent predictors of the absence of LVRR. The risk score based on these predictors showed a c-statistic value of 0.81. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacological treatment optimization is associated with LVRR in approximately half of cases, reducing potential ICD indications in parallel. However, ischemic cardiomyopathy, prolonged HF duration, and larger LVEDDI predict the absence of LVRR and favor ICD implantation without delay. The risk score based on the former predictors may help the clinician with the timing of ICD implantation.

Documento de consenso del uso clínico de la Polypill en la prevención secundaria del riesgo cardiovascular / Consensus document for the use of the Polypill in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease

La enfermedad cardiovascular suele estar en fase avanzada cuando aparecen los primeros síntomas. El hecho de que la presentación clínica inicial pueda ser letal o altamente incapacitante enfatiza la necesidad de la prevención primaria y secundaria. Se estima que la proporción de pacientes con buena adherencia en prevención secundaria de la enfermedad cardiovascular es baja y disminuye progresivamente en el tiempo. La Polypill para la prevención cardiovascular secundaria es el primer tratamiento combinado en dosis fija de ácido acetilsalicílico, atorvastatina y ramipril aprobada en España. El propósito de este documento de consenso fue definir y recomendar, a través de la evidencia en la literatura y la opinión clínica de expertos, el impacto de la adherencia al tratamiento de prevención cardiovascular secundaria y el uso en la práctica clínica de la Polypill integrado en una estrategia global que incluye modificaciones en el estilo de vida. Para la realización de este consenso se ha utilizado la metodología RAND/UCLA que está basada en la evidencia científica y en el juicio colectivo y experiencia clínica de un panel de expertos. Como resultado se ha elaborado un informe final de recomendaciones sobre el impacto de la falta de adherencia al tratamiento de la prevención cardiovascular secundaria y el efecto del uso de una Polypill en la adherencia terapéutica de los pacientes. Las recomendaciones de este documento se orientan a todos aquellos especialistas, cardiólogos, médicos internistas y médicos de atención primaria con competencia en la prescripción y seguimiento de los pacientes de alto y muy alto riesgo cardiovascular y que requieran prevención secundaria (AU)

Cardiovascular disease is a chronic disorder which is usually already at an advanced stage when the first symptoms develop. The fact that the initial clinical presentation can be lethal or highly incapacitating emphasizes the need for primary and secondary prevention. It is estimated that the ratio of patients with good adherence to secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease is low and also decreases gradually over time. The Polypill for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease is the first fixed-dose combination therapy of salicylic acid, atorvastatin and ramipril approved in Spain. The purpose of this consensus document was to define and recommend, through the evidence available in the literature and clinical expert opinion, the impact of treatment adherence in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and the use of the Polypill in daily clinical practice as part of a global strategy including adjustments in patient lifestyle. A RAND/UCLA methodology based on scientific evidence, as well as the collective judgment and clinical expertise of an expert panel was used for this assessment. As a result, a final report of recommendations on the impact of the lack of adherence to treatment of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and the effect of using a Polypill in adherence of patients was produced. The recommendations included in this document have been addressed to all those specialists, cardiologists, internists and primary care physicians with competence in prescribing and monitoring patients with high and very high cardiovascular risks (AU)

Consensus document for the use of the Polypill in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. / Documento de consenso del uso clínico de la Polypill en la prevención secundaria del riesgo cardiovascular.

Cardiovascular disease is a chronic disorder which is usually already at an advanced stage when the first symptoms develop. The fact that the initial clinical presentation can be lethal or highly incapacitating emphasizes the need for primary and secondary prevention. It is estimated that the ratio of patients with good adherence to secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease is low and also decreases gradually over time. The Polypill for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease is the first fixed-dose combination therapy of salicylic acid, atorvastatin and ramipril approved in Spain. The purpose of this consensus document was to define and recommend, through the evidence available in the literature and clinical expert opinion, the impact of treatment adherence in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and the use of the Polypill in daily clinical practice as part of a global strategy including adjustments in patient lifestyle. A RAND/UCLA methodology based on scientific evidence, as well as the collective judgment and clinical expertise of an expert panel was used for this assessment. As a result, a final report of recommendations on the impact of the lack of adherence to treatment of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and the effect of using a Polypill in adherence of patients was produced. The recommendations included in this document have been addressed to all those specialists, cardiologists, internists and primary care physicians with competence in prescribing and monitoring patients with high and very high cardiovascular risks.

Grado de control lipídico en pacientes coronarios y medidas adoptadas por los médicos. Estudio REPAR / Degree of lipid control in patients with coronary heart disease and measures adopted by physicians. REPAR Study

Introducción y objetivos: El control lipídico es insuficiente en los pacientes coronarios, aunque las últimas guías de práctica clínica podrían haberlo modificado. El objetivo del estudio es analizar la consecución de los valores objetivo de colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de baja densidad, los factores asociados y las actitudes de los médicos ante un control deficiente. Métodos: Estudio observacional, prospectivo, multicéntrico y nacional de 1.103 pacientes con enfermedad coronaria estable, incluyendo determinaciones lipídicas y un amplio conjunto de variables clínicas. Estudio estadístico: modelo de regresión logística binaria con el procedimiento de eliminación secuencial progresiva paso a paso. Resultados: Solo el 26% de los pacientes tenían cifras de colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de baja densidad < 70 mg/dl pese a que el 95,3% recibía hipolipemiantes, el 45% de ellos de alta intensidad. Los factores independientes asociados a cifras < 70 mg/dl fueron la diabetes mellitus, el consumo de pan integral, las dislipemias de menor duración y, especialmente, el tratamiento de alta potencia. De los pacientes mal controlados, el médico solo aumentó el tratamiento al 26%. El principal factor asociado a escalada de tratamiento fue un tratamiento basal de baja potencia (odds ratio = 5,05; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 3,3-9,2). Tuvieron actitud más proactiva los médicos de más edad (p = 0,019) y más largo ejercicio (p = 0,02). Conclusiones: Pese a los cambios en las guías, solo un 26% de los pacientes coronarios presentan un adecuado control lipídico, y aun así en un 70% de los casos el médico mantiene el tratamiento pese a que, precisamente, es el tratamiento de alta intensidad el factor fundamental de un buen control (AU)

Introduction and objectives: Lipid control is insufficient in patients with coronary heart disease but this situation may be improving with the implementation of the latest clinical practice guidelines. The aim of this study was to analyze whether target values of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol are achieved and to identify associated factors and physicians’ attitudes to deficient control. Methods: We conducted a national, multicenter, prospective, observational study of 1103 patients with stable coronary heart disease, analyzing lipid values and a broad set of clinical variables. The statistical analysis involved a binary logistic regression model using backward stepwise elimination. Results: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was < 70 mg/dL in only 26% of patients, even though 95.3% were receiving cholesterol-lowering agents, 45% of which were high-intensity therapies. Independent predictors of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 70 mg/dL were diabetes mellitus, wholegrain bread, shorter history of dyslipidemia, and, especially, high-intensity cholesterol-lowering therapies. Physicians increased therapy in only 26% of poorly controlled patients. The main predictor of increased therapy was low-intensity baseline therapy (odds ratio = 5.05; 95% confidence interval, 3.3-9.2). A more proactive approach was observed in older physicians (P = .019) and longer physician practice (P = .02). Conclusions: Despite the new guidelines, only 26% of patients with coronary heart disease have adequate lipid control. In 70% of patients, physicians continue the same therapy, even though high-intensity cholesterol-lowering therapies are a key factor in good control (AU)

Insuficiente control de parámetros lipídicos en pacientes con enfermedad coronaria: un problema por resolver. Respuesta / Insufficient lipid control in patients with coronary artery disease: An unresolved problem. Response

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Degree of Lipid Control in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease and Measures Adopted by Physicians. REPAR Study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Lipid control is insufficient in patients with coronary heart disease but this situation may be improving with the implementation of the latest clinical practice guidelines. The aim of this study was to analyze whether target values of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol are achieved and to identify associated factors and physicians' attitudes to deficient control. METHODS: We conducted a national, multicenter, prospective, observational study of 1103 patients with stable coronary heart disease, analyzing lipid values and a broad set of clinical variables. The statistical analysis involved a binary logistic regression model using backward stepwise elimination. RESULTS: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was < 70 mg/dL in only 26% of patients, even though 95.3% were receiving cholesterol-lowering agents, 45% of which were high-intensity therapies. Independent predictors of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 70 mg/dL were diabetes mellitus, wholegrain bread, shorter history of dyslipidemia, and, especially, high-intensity cholesterol-lowering therapies. Physicians increased therapy in only 26% of poorly controlled patients. The main predictor of increased therapy was low-intensity baseline therapy (odds ratio=5.05; 95% confidence interval, 3.3-9.2). A more proactive approach was observed in older physicians (P=.019) and longer physician practice (P=.02). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the new guidelines, only 26% of patients with coronary heart disease have adequate lipid control. In 70% of patients, physicians continue the same therapy, even though high-intensity cholesterol-lowering therapies are a key factor in good control.

Initiating sacubitril/valsartan (LCZ696) in heart failure: results of TITRATION, a double-blind, randomized comparison of two uptitration regimens.

AIMS: To assess the tolerability of initiating/uptitrating sacubitril/valsartan (LCZ696) from 50 to 200 mg twice daily (target dose) over 3 and 6 weeks in heart failure (HF) patients (ejection fraction ≤35%). METHODS AND RESULTS: A 5-day open-label run-in (sacubitril/valsartan 50 mg twice daily) preceded an 11-week, double-blind, randomization period [100 mg twice daily for 2 weeks followed by 200 mg twice daily ('condensed' regimen) vs. 50 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, 100 mg twice daily for 3 weeks, followed by 200 mg twice daily ('conservative' regimen)]. Patients were stratified by pre-study dose of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin-receptor blocker (ACEI/ARB; low-dose stratum included ACEI/ARB-naïve patients). Of 540 patients entering run-in, 498 (92%) were randomized and 429 (86.1% of randomized) completed the study. Pre-defined tolerability criteria were hypotension, renal dysfunction and hyperkalaemia; and adjudicated angioedema, which occurred in ('condensed' vs. 'conservative') 9.7% vs. 8.4% (P = 0.570), 7.3% vs. 7.6% (P = 0.990), 7.7% vs. 4.4% (P = 0.114), and 0.0% vs. 0.8% of patients, respectively. Corresponding proportions for pre-defined systolic blood pressure <95 mmHg, serum potassium >5.5 mmol/L, and serum creatinine >3.0 mg/dL were 8.9% vs. 5.2% (P = 0.102), 7.3% vs. 4.0% (P = 0.097), and 0.4% vs. 0%, respectively. In total, 378 (76%) patients achieved and maintained sacubitril/valsartan 200 mg twice daily without dose interruption/down-titration over 12 weeks (77.8% vs. 84.3% for 'condensed' vs. 'conservative'; P = 0.078). Rates by ACEI/ARB pre-study dose stratification were 82.6% vs. 83.8% (P = 0.783) for high-dose/'condensed' vs. high-dose/'conservative' and 84.9% vs. 73.6% (P = 0.030) for low-dose/'conservative' vs. low-dose/'condensed'. CONCLUSIONS: Initiation/uptitration of sacubitril/valsartan from 50 to 200 mg twice daily over 3 or 6 weeks had a tolerability profile in line with other HF treatments. More gradual initiation/uptitration maximized attainment of target dose in the low-dose ACEI/ARB group.

Tendencias en factores de riesgo y tratamientos de pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica estable atendidos en consultas de cardiología entre 2006 y 2014 / Trends in risk factors and treatments in patients with stable ischemic heart disease seen at cardiology clinics between 2006 and 2014

Introducción y objetivos: La cardiopatía isquémica crónica es la enfermedad cardiovascular más prevalente. Los pacientes tienen alto riesgo de presentar nuevas complicaciones y sus características clínicas, sus tratamientos y el control de factores de riesgo pueden haber cambiado en las últimas décadas. Métodos: Comparación directa de dos registros nacionales de pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica crónica realizados en 2006 (n = 1.583) y 2014 (n = 1.110). Resultados: Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre un registro y otro, como mayor porcentaje de varones y fumadores entre los pacientes del registro de 2014, pero menor prevalencia de diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial; la insuficiencia cardiaca y el accidente cerebrovascular fueron más prevalentes en el primer registro. Los pacientes del registro de 2014 tenían valores más favorables en perfil lipídico, glucemia, creatinina y filtrado glomerular. Se observó mayor utilización de los fármacos recomendados en prevención secundaria y un incremento del tratamiento médico óptimo del 32,5 al 49,5% (p < 0,01). También se observó un incremento de la utilización de dosis altas de estatinas (del 10,5 al 42,8%; p < 0,01). Respecto al control de factores de riesgo, se observó mejora en dislipemia, frecuencia cardiaca y glucemia de los pacientes diabéticos, pero un descenso en el control de la hipertensión arterial. Conclusiones: Los perfiles clínicos de los pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica crónica de un registro y otro son similares. Se ha mejorado en el tratamiento médico de estos pacientes y el control de la dislipemia, la glucemia y la frecuencia cardiaca, aunque sigue habiendo amplio margen de mejora en el control de los demás factores de riesgo cardiovascular (AU)

Introduction and objectives: Chronic ischemic heart disease is the most prevalent of all cardiovascular diseases. Patients are at high risk of complications. In recent decades, changes may have occurred in the clinical characteristics of the disease, its treatment and control of risk factors. Methods: A direct comparison of 2 national registries of patients with chronic ischemic heart disease carried out in 2006 (n = 1583) and 2014 (n = 1110). Results: We observed statistically significant differences between the 2 registries, with a higher percentage of men and smokers in the 2014 registry, but a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Heart failure and stroke were more prevalent in the 2006 registry. Patients in the 2014 registry had better results for lipid profile, blood glucose, creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate. We observed higher use of recommended drugs for secondary prevention and an increased percentage of patients receiving optimal medical therapy, from 32.5% to 49.5% (P < .01). Use of high-intensity statin doses also increased from 10.5% to 42.8% (P < .01). We found better control of some risk factors (improved dyslipidemia, heart rate, and blood glucose in patients with diabetes) but worse blood pressure control. Conclusions: The clinical profile of patients with chronic ischemic heart disease is similar in the 2 registries. There has been an improvement in patients’ medical therapy and dyslipidemia control, blood glucose, and heart rate, but there is still much room for improvement in the control of other cardiovascular risk factors (AU)

Consenso sobre los objetivos y pautas de actuación en el control del colesterol ligado a lipoproteínas de baja densidad en pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular / Consensus on objectives and action guidelines on low density lipoproteins-cholesterol control in very high risk cardiovascular patients

Introducción: La enfermedad cardiovascular es la principal causa de muerte en los países desarrollados. Entre sus factores de riesgo destaca los niveles de colesterol asociado a lipoproteínas de baja densidad (cLDL), pero existe gran controversia sobre la forma de reducirlos. Se obtuvo la opinión de un panel de expertos para clarificar los puntos más relevantes del control de la dislipidemia en pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular. Material y métodos: Encuesta realizada mediante el método Delphi en 2 rondas a 41 especialistas (cardiología/medicina interna). El cuestionario constaba de 55 ítems, estratificados en 4 bloques: cLDL como diana terapéutica, objetivos de reducción, causas del fracaso en la reducción y recomendaciones para optimizar la consecución de los objetivos terapéuticos. Resultados: Se alcanzó un alto grado de consenso en los ítems consultados en línea con las recomendaciones de las guías europeas. El panel consideró adecuado el objetivo terapéutico de 70 mg/dl de lipoproteínas de baja densidad en pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular (principalmente enfermedad vascular, diabetes mellitus e insuficiencia renal), empleando si es preciso tratamiento combinado. Sin embargo, la consecución de ese objetivo se vuelve compleja debido a distintos factores, como la falta de adherencia y la inercia. Conclusiones: Los expertos españoles tienen un alto grado de acuerdo con las recomendaciones europeas, ratificando el objetivo de control del cLDL en los pacientes de muy alto riesgo < 70 mg/dl. La simplificación de las guías y el tratamiento combinado pueden favorecer la mejora del control de los objetivos lipídicos

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in developed countries. Among cardiovascular disease risk factors one of the most relevant is low-density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol (LDL-c), but there is controversy about the methods used to control it. The aim was to obtain an expert opinion to clarify the most relevant issues regarding the control of dyslipidemia in very high cardiovascular risk patients. Materials and methods: A survey with 55 items, stratified into 4 blocks: LDL-c as a therapeutic target, therapeutic goals, causes of the failure to achieve LDL-c goals, and recommendations to optimize their achievement, was addressed to 41 specialists (Cardiology and Internal Medicine) using the Delphi method to achieve professional consensus criteria. Results: A high consensus was reached among all items, in line with the European recommendations. The panelists considered that the goal of 70 mg/dl for LDL-c for high cardiovascular disease risk (mainly vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and renal failure), using combined treatment when necessary. Lack of adherence and therapeutic inertia were considered the main reasons for treatment failure. Conclusion: The Spanish experts show an elevated consensus with the European recommendations, confirming the LDL-c control target of < 70 mg/dl. The simplification of the guidelines and the combined treatment may favor an improvement the achievement of lipid target goals

Trends in Risk Factors and Treatments in Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease Seen at Cardiology Clinics Between 2006 and 2014.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic ischemic heart disease is the most prevalent of all cardiovascular diseases. Patients are at high risk of complications. In recent decades, changes may have occurred in the clinical characteristics of the disease, its treatment and control of risk factors. METHODS: A direct comparison of 2 national registries of patients with chronic ischemic heart disease carried out in 2006 (n=1583) and 2014 (n=1110). RESULTS: We observed statistically significant differences between the 2 registries, with a higher percentage of men and smokers in the 2014 registry, but a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Heart failure and stroke were more prevalent in the 2006 registry. Patients in the 2014 registry had better results for lipid profile, blood glucose, creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate. We observed higher use of recommended drugs for secondary prevention and an increased percentage of patients receiving optimal medical therapy, from 32.5% to 49.5% (P<.01). Use of high-intensity statin doses also increased from 10.5% to 42.8% (P<.01). We found better control of some risk factors (improved dyslipidemia, heart rate, and blood glucose in patients with diabetes) but worse blood pressure control. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical profile of patients with chronic ischemic heart disease is similar in the 2 registries. There has been an improvement in patients' medical therapy and dyslipidemia control, blood glucose, and heart rate, but there is still much room for improvement in the control of other cardiovascular risk factors.

[Consensus on objectives and action guidelines on low density lipoproteins-cholesterol control in very high risk cardiovascular patients]. / Consenso sobre los objetivos y pautas de actuación en el control del colesterol ligado a lipoproteínas de baja densidad en pacientes de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular.

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in developed countries. Among cardiovascular disease risk factors one of the most relevant is low-density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol (LDL-c), but there is controversy about the methods used to control it. The aim was to obtain an expert opinion to clarify the most relevant issues regarding the control of dyslipidemia in very high cardiovascular risk patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey with 55 items, stratified into 4 blocks: LDL-c as a therapeutic target, therapeutic goals, causes of the failure to achieve LDL-c goals, and recommendations to optimize their achievement, was addressed to 41 specialists (Cardiology and Internal Medicine) using the Delphi method to achieve professional consensus criteria. RESULTS: A high consensus was reached among all items, in line with the European recommendations. The panelists considered that the goal of 70mg/dl for LDL-c for high cardiovascular disease risk (mainly vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and renal failure), using combined treatment when necessary. Lack of adherence and therapeutic inertia were considered the main reasons for treatment failure. CONCLUSION: The Spanish experts show an elevated consensus with the European recommendations, confirming the LDL-c control target of <70mg/dl. The simplification of the guidelines and the combined treatment may favor an improvement the achievement of lipid target goals.