Unused potential of lipid-lowering therapy in very high-risk patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. A retrospective data analysis.

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the most common cause of death in Europe. Although the 2019 European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias claim a target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) value of <55 mg/dL for very high-risk patients by use of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) and lifestyle adaptations, the target level achievement is not satisfactory. We examined LLT use in ASCVD patients exceeding LDL-C target levels at admission and its adaptations at discharge. METHODS AND RESULTS: Between January 2017 and February 2020, 1091 patients with LDL-C >100 mg/dL and ASCVD defined as diagnosis of angina pectoris (AP, n = 179), acute myocardial infarction (AMI, n = 317), chronic ischemic heart disease (CHD, n = 195), or peripheral artery disease (PAD, n = 400) were extracted from hospital records. LLT use on admission and discharge as well as recommendations on lifestyle and nutrition were analysed. On admission, 51% of the patients were not taking LLT. At discharge, 91% were prescribed statins and 87% were advised on lifestyle adaptation and/or pharmacological treatment. High-intensity statin use at discharge was present in 63% of the AP-group, 92% of the AMI-group, 62% of the CHD-group and 71% of the PAD-group. Ezetimibe was present in 16% and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) in 1%. However, of those on high-intensity statin, 25% remained on insufficient statin dosage. CONCLUSION: Switch to high-intensity statins and use of ezetimibe and PCSK9i was low in chronic ASCVD patients. Even though statin intake was high in high-risk patients, target levels were still not reached.

Sex Differences in Outcomes of Patients with an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator for the Secondary Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death.

Background: In patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) for secondary prevention, sex differences may exist in clinical outcomes. We sought to investigate sex differences in appropriate ICD therapy, appropriate and inappropriate shock, and all-cause mortality in this patient population. Methods: A total of 257 patients who received an ICD for a secondary prevention indication in the University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG) between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2018 were retrospectively included in a consecutive manner. Appropriate ICD therapy, comprising shock and antitachycardia pacing (ATP) for ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), was the primary outcome. Results: The patient population included 257 patients, of whom 45 (18%) were women and 212 (82%) were men. The median of the age was 64 (interquartile range (IQR) 53-72) years. During follow-up (median duration 6.2 (IQR 4.8-7.8) years), first appropriate device therapy took place in 10 (22%) patients for women and 85 (40%) patients for men. Female sex was negatively associated with the rate of appropriate ICD therapy, univariably (hazard ratio (HR) 0.48 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25-0.93]; p = 0.030) and multivariably (HR 0.44 [95% CI 0.20-0.95]; p = 0.036). Conclusions: Women with secondary prevention ICDs were less likely than men to receive appropriate ICD therapy.

Secondary Prevention in Patients With Stroke Versus Myocardial Infarction: Analysis of 2 National Cohorts.

BACKGROUND: The implementation of preventive therapies among patients with stroke remains inadequately explored, especially when compared with patients with myocardial infarction (MI), despite sharing similar vascular risk profiles. We tested the hypothesis that participants with a history of stroke have a worse cardiovascular prevention profile in comparison to participants with MI. METHODS AND RESULTS: In cross-sectional analyses within the UK Biobank and All of Us Research Program, involving 14 760 (9193 strokes, 5567 MIs) and 7315 (2948 strokes, 4367 MIs) participants, respectively, we evaluated cardiovascular prevention profiles assessing low-density lipoprotein (<100 mg/dL), blood pressure (systolic, <140 mm Hg; and diastolic, <90 mm Hg), statin and antiplatelet use, and a cardiovascular prevention score that required meeting at least 3 of these criteria. The results revealed that, within the UK Biobank, patients with stroke had significantly lower odds of meeting all the preventive criteria compared with patients with MI: low-density lipoprotein control (odds ratio [OR], 0.73 [95% CI, 0.68-0.78]; P<0.001), blood pressure control (OR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.59-0.68]; P<0.001), statin use (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.42-0.48]; P<0.001), antiplatelet therapy use (OR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.27-0.32]; P<0.001), and cardiovascular prevention score (OR, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.39-0.45]; P<0.001). Similar patterns were observed in the All of Us Research Program, with significant differences across all comparisons (P<0.05), and further analysis suggested that the odds of having a good cardiovascular prevention score were influenced by race and ethnicity as well as neighborhood deprivation levels (interaction P<0.05 in both cases). CONCLUSIONS: In 2 independent national cohorts, patients with stroke showed poorer cardiovascular prevention profiles and lower adherence to guideline-directed therapies compared with patients with MI. These findings underscore the need to explore the reasons behind the underuse of secondary prevention in vulnerable stroke survivors.

Effect of bempedoic acid on mortality and cardiovascular events in primary and secondary prevention: A post-hoc analysis of the CLEAR-outcomes trial.

BACKGROUND: The effects of bempedoic acid in the secondary prevention setting have not been examined. METHODS: We used data from the overall and primary prevention reports of CLEAR - Outcomes to reconstruct data for the secondary prevention population. A Bayesian analyses was employed to calculate the posterior probability of benefit or harm for the outcomes of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Relative effect sizes are presented as risk ratios (RR) with 95% credible intervals (CrI), which represent the intervals that true effect sizes are expected to fall in with 95% probability, given the priors and model. RESULTS: In primary prevention, the posterior probability of bempedoic acid decreasing all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was 99.4% (RR: 0.70; 95% CrI: 0.51 to 0.92) and 99.7% (RR: 0.58; 95% CrI: 0.38 to 0.86) respectively. In secondary prevention, the posterior probability of bempedoic acid increasing all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was 96.6% (RR: 1.15; 95% CrI: 0.99 to 1.33) and 97.2% (RR: 1.21; 95% CrI: 1.00 to 1.45) respectively. The probability of bemepdoic acid reducing MACE in the primary and secondary prevention settings was 99.9% (RR: 0.70; 95% CrI: 0.54 to 0.88) and 95.8% (RR: 0.92; 95% CrI: 0.84 to 1.01) respectively. CONCLUSION: In contrast to its effect in the primary prevention subgroup of CLEAR - Outcomes, bempedoic acid resulted in a more modest MACE reduction and a potential increase in mortality in the secondary prevention subgroup. Whether these findings represent true treatment effect heterogeneity or the play of chance requires further evidence.

Uncommon Causes of Nontraumatic Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage is an important health issue. Although common causes such as hypertension and cerebral amyloid angiopathy predominantly affect the elderly, there exists a spectrum of uncommon etiologies that contribute to the overall incidence of intracerebral hemorrhage. The identification of these rare causes is essential for targeted clinical management, informed prognostication, and strategic secondary prevention where relevant. This topical review explores the uncommon intracerebral hemorrhage causes and provides practical clues for their clinical and imaging identification. By expanding the clinician's differential diagnosis, this review aims to bridge the gap between standard intracerebral hemorrhage classification systems and the nuanced reality of clinical practice.

Effectiveness of behavior change and self-management theoretically-informed telehealth interventions for stroke secondary prevention: An overview of systematic reviews.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the increased use of telehealth interventions, low-level evidence supports their use for behavior change and self-management in stroke secondary prevention. Therefore, this overview of systematic reviews (SRs) critically appraises and consolidates the evidence about theoretically-informed telehealth interventions in stroke secondary prevention. METHODS: Two phases were conducted independently by two reviewers. Phase-1 included SRs contemplating randomized controlled trials (RCTs) implementing telehealth interventions with individuals post-stroke, targeting cardiovascular events, risk-reducing health behaviors or physiological risk factors. Phase-2 interrogated RCTs from these SRs that implemented theoretically-informed interventions. Best-evidence synthesis of published meta-analyses and new meta-analyses of theoretically-informed interventions were conducted. GRADE evidence was applied. RESULTS: In Phase-1 (15 SRs), best-evidence synthesis identified telehealth interventions as effective in reducing recurrent angina and recurrent stroke rates (both with very low GRADE), improving medication adherence (low GRADE), physical activity participation (very low GRADE), and blood pressure targets (very low GRADE), reducing systolic blood pressure (SBP) (moderate GRADE) and low-density lipoprotein levels (very low GRADE). In Phase-2 (14 RCTs), new meta-analyses identified theoretically-informed telehealth interventions as effective in improving medication adherence (SMD: 0.38; 95%CI: 0.13-0.64; I²: 72%, low GRADE) and healthy eating (SMD: 0.38; 95%CI: 0.15-0.60; I²: 38%, low GRADE), and decreasing SBP (MD: -9.19; 95%CI: -5.49 to -12.89; I²: 0%, moderate GRADE). DISCUSSION: Telehealth demonstrates utility in stroke secondary prevention, notably in SBP reduction. High-quality RCTs are required given the lack of current evidence supporting theoretically-informed telehealth interventions addressing primary outcomes of secondary prevention, and the low certainty evidence identified for health behavior change.

Patients' experiences and perspectives regarding the use of digital technology to support exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation: a qualitative interview study.

Introduction: Despite the well-known benefits of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, participation in cardiac rehabilitation programmes and adherence to secondary prevention recommendations remain limited. Digital technologies have the potential to address low participation and adherence but attempts at implementing digital health interventions in real-life clinical practice frequently encounter various barriers. Studies about patients' experiences and perspectives regarding the use of digital technology can assist developers, researchers and clinicians in addressing or pre-empting patient-related barriers. This study was therefore conducted to investigate the experiences and perspectives of cardiac rehabilitation patients in Austria with regard to using digital technology for physical activity and exercise. Methods: Twenty-five current and former cardiac rehabilitation patients (18 men and 7 women, age range 39 to 83) with various cardiac conditions were recruited from a clinical site in Salzburg, Austria. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The analysis followed a descriptive phenomenological approach, applying the framework analysis method. Results: The sample was diverse, including interviewees who readily used digital devices to support their physical activity, exercise and health monitoring, and interviewees who did not. Simplicity, convenience and accessibility were highlighted as important facilitators for the use of digital technology, while annoyance with digital devices, concerns about becoming dependent on them, or simply a preference to not use digital technology were commonly stated reasons for non-use. Interviewees' views on data protection, data sharing and artificial intelligence revealed wide variations in individuals' prior knowledge and experience about these topics, and a need for greater accessibility and transparency of data protection regulation and data sharing arrangements. Discussion: These findings support the importance that is attributed to user-centred design methodologies in the conceptualisation and design of digital health interventions, and the imperative to develop solutions that are simple, accessible and that can be personalised according to the preferences and capabilities of the individual patient. Regarding data protection, data sharing and artificial intelligence, the findings indicate opportunity for information and education, as well as the need to offer patients transparency and accountability in order to build trust in digital technology and digital health interventions.

The secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in US adults 75 Years and older in daily practice: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2018 survey.

Background: Pharmacologic therapies, risk factor control, and lifestyle alterations were independently proven to reduce long-term cardiovascular events. However, comprehensive research examining the extent to which individuals aged 75 and above in the United States adhere to national guidelines for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease is limited. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to examine the current state of secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in persons 75 years of age and older in the United States and to examine the factors that contribute to inadequate drug utilization and poor control of numerous risk factors. Methods: We identified patients over 75 years of age with coronary heart disease based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999 to 2018 and analyzed the adequacy of risk factor control and adherence to lifestyle and medication recommendations to assess the effectiveness of coronary heart disease management. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with uncontrolled risk factors or noncompliance with recommended medications. Results: We collected information from 1566 known coronary heart disease patients aged ≥75 years of age. The majority were at target goals for blood pressure (58.88%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (66.85%), and glycated hemoglobin (76.12%). Only 27.8% and 36.06% were at targets for body mass index and waist circumference, respectively. 91.95% reported smoking cessation, 85.98% followed recommended alcohol consumption, whereas only 10.34% reported sufficient physical activity. For ß blockers, angiotensin -converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, statins, and antiplatelet drugs, the utilization of indicated therapy was 54.41%, 49.36%, 54.79%, and 19.03%, respectively (6.26% for all 4 medications). The results of the logistic regression analysis demonstrated that diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome were critical markers of numerous uncontrolled risk variables as well as noncompliance with medication regimens. Conclusions: A vast majority of coronary heart disease patients ≥75 years in the USA exhibited suboptimal overall control of critical coronary heart disease risk factors. For this patient population, more knowledge is necessary to enable patients to receive continuous support, guidance, and counseling.

The importance of LDL-C lowering in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention: Lower for longer is better.

Cumulative exposure to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a key driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk. An armamentarium of therapies to achieve robust and sustained reduction in LDL-C can reduce ASCVD risk. The gold standard for LDL-C assessment is ultracentrifugation but in routine clinical practice LDL-C is usually calculated and the most accurate calculation is the Martin/Hopkins equation. For primary prevention, consideration of estimated ASCVD risk frames decision making regarding use of statins and other therapies, and tools such as risk enhancing factors and coronary artery calcium enable tailoring of risk assessment and decision making. In patients with diabetes, lipid lowering therapy is recommended in most patients to reduce ASCVD risk with an opportunity to tailor therapy based on other risk factors. Patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) with baseline LDL-C greater than or equal to 190 mg/dL are at elevated risk, and LDL-C lowering with high-intensity statin therapy is often combined with non-statin therapies to prevent ASCVD. Secondary prevention of ASCVD, including in patients with prior myocardial infarction or stroke, requires intensive lipid lowering therapy and lifestyle modification approaches. There is no established LDL-C level below which benefit ceases or safety concerns arise. When further LDL-C lowering is required beyond lifestyle modifications and statin therapy, additional medications include oral ezetimibe and bempedoic acid, or injectables such as PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies or siRNA therapy. A novel agent that acts independently of hepatic LDL receptors is evinacumab, which is approved for patients with homozygous FH. Other emerging agents are targeted at Lp(a) and CETP. In light of the expanding lipid treatment landscape, this manuscript reviews the importance of early, intensive, and sustained LDL-C-lowering for primary and secondary prevention of ASCVD.

Adherence to penicillin treatment is essential for effective secondary prevention of rheumatic heart disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Penicillin is essential for secondary prevention of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). However, the incidences of ARF recurrence and RHD progression remain high, particularly in endemic countries. This meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of penicillin adherence in secondary prevention of ARF recurrence and RHD progression. Methods: The authors included original articles employing an observational study design in which the study population included patients with ARF or RHD and documented adherence to secondary prophylaxis with penicillin for secondary prevention. Systematic searches of the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were performed. Moreover, the authors also conducted a snowballing literature search from Europe PMC to expand the included studies. The quality of each study was assessed using the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool. The statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.4.1 software developed by Cochrane. In addition, the authors utilized pooled odds ratios (ORs) to compare the adherence techniques. Results: A total of 310 studies were identified, of which 57 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. The authors included six studies with 1364 patients for the qualitative synthesis and meta-analysis. Good adherence to penicillin for the secondary prophylaxis of ARF and RHD, significantly reduced the odds of ARF recurrence or RHD progression by up to 71% compared to that associated with poor adherence [pooled OR 0.29 (0.21-0.40); I²=0% (p=0.56); Z=7.64 (p <0.00001)]. Conclusion: Good adherence to penicillin for secondary prophylaxis in patients with ARF or RHD is essential for reducing the risk of ARF recurrence or RHD progression.

Applicability and impact of the COMPASS trial in a Canadian population of patients with atherosclerotic disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In the COMPASS trial, low-dose rivaroxaban with aspirin improved cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We aimed to assess the potential clinical implications of this therapy in a generalizable population. METHODS AND RESULTS: A retrospective cohort of adults with ASVCD was formed using healthcare administrative databases in Alberta, Canada (population 4.4 million). Patients with a new diagnosis between 2008 and 2019 formed the epidemiological cohort (n = 224,600) and those with long-term follow-up (>5 years) formed the outcomes cohort (n = 232,460). The primary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was assessed and categorized based on the COMPASS trial eligibility. In the outcomes cohort, 77% had only coronary artery disease, 15% had only peripheral artery disease, and 8% had both. Of those, 37% met the COMPASS trial eligibility criteria, 36% met exclusion criteria and 27% did not meet inclusion criteria. Over a median of 7.8 years, the COMPASS exclusion group demonstrated the highest rate of MACE (5.9 per 100 person-years), following by the eligible group and the group that did not meet COMPASS inclusion criteria (3.1 and 1.4 per 100 person-years respectively). The expected net clinical benefit of antithrombotic therapy in the eligible group was 5.6 fewer events per 1000 person-years. CONCLUSIONS: In a real-world population of 4.4 million adults, there are roughly 20,000 new cases of ASVCD diagnosed yearly, with ∼40% being eligible for the addition of low-dose rivaroxaban therapy to antiplatelet therapy. The theoretical implementation of dual antithrombotic treatment in this population could result in a substantial reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Polypill Strategy in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The polypill strategy, originally developed to improve medication adherence, has demonstrated efficacy in improving baseline systolic blood pressures and cholesterol levels in multiple clinical trials. However, the long-term clinical impact of improved major cardiovascular events (MACE) outcomes by the polypill remains uncertain. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent trials with long-term follow-up, which included minority groups and people with low socioeconomic status, have shown non-inferiority with no difference in adverse effects rates for the secondary prevention of MACE. Although the polypill strategy was initially introduced to improve adherence to guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for cardiovascular complications, the strategy has surpassed standard medical treatment for secondary prevention of MACE outcomes. Studies also showed improved medication compliance in underserved populations.

Effects of a Planned Web-Based Educational Intervention Based on the Health Belief Model for Patients With Ischemic Stroke in Promoting Secondary Prevention During the COVID-19 Lockdown in China: Quasi-Experimental Study.

Background: Some common modified vascular risk factors remain poorly controlled among stroke survivors, and educational programs may help improve these conditions. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a planned web-based educational intervention based on the health belief model (HBM) in promoting secondary prevention among patients with ischemic stroke. Methods: An evaluation-blinded quasi-experimental trial with a historical control group was conducted. Patients admitted from March to June 2020 were assigned to the historical control group, and patients admitted from July to October 2020 were assigned to the intervention group. The control group received routine health management. The intervention group received 6 additional sessions based on the HBM via Tencent Meeting, an audio and video conferencing application, within 3 months after discharge. Sessions were held every 2 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 40 minutes. These sessions were conducted in small groups, with about 8 to 10 people in each group. The primary outcomes were changes in blood pressure (BP), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and the proportion of patients achieving the treatment target. The secondary outcomes were medication adherence, assessed with the Morisky Medicine Adherence Scale (MMAS), and disability, assessed with the modified Rankin scale. Results: In total, 315 patients experiencing their first-ever stroke were analyzed. More patients in the intervention group had controlled BP (41.9% vs 28.4%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.93; P=.01), LDL-C (83.1% vs 67.7%; aOR 2.66; P=.001), and HbA1c (91.9% vs 83.9%; aOR: 3.37; P=.04) levels as well as a significant postintervention decrease in the systolic BP (adjusted ß -3.94; P=.02), LDL-C (adjusted ß -0.21; P=.008), and HbA1c (adjusted ß -0.27; P<.001), compared with control groups. Significant between-group differences were observed in medication adherence (79.4% vs 63.2%; aOR 2.31; P=.002) but not in favorable functional outcomes. Conclusions: A web-based education program based on the HBM may be more effective than current methods used to educate patients having strokes on optimal vascular risk factors and medication adherence.

Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity among childhood cancer survivors in the Netherlands: A DCCSS LATER study.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity in Dutch childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) compared with sibling controls and the Dutch general population. Other aims were to assess associated factors of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity and to identify subgroups of CCSs at risk for these unhealthy statuses. METHODS: The authors included 2253 CCSs and 906 siblings from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study-Late Effects After Childhood Cancer cohort, part 1, and added data from the Dutch general population. Questionnaire data were collected on overweight and obesity (body mass index >25.0 kg/m2), meeting physical activity guidelines (>150 minutes per week of moderate or vigorous exercises), excessive alcohol consumption (>14 and >21 alcoholic consumptions per week for women and men, respectively), daily smoking, and monthly drug use. Multivariable logistic regression analyses and two-step cluster analyses were performed to examine sociodemographic-related, health-related, cancer-related, and treatment-related associated factors of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and to identify subgroups of CCSs at risk for multiple unhealthy behaviors. RESULTS: CCSs more often did not meet physical activity guidelines than their siblings (30.0% vs. 19.3%; p < .001). Married as marital status, lower education level, nonstudent status, and comorbidities were common associated factors for a body mass index ≥25.0 kg/m2 and insufficient physical activity, whereas male sex and lower education were shared associated factors for excessive alcohol consumption, daily smoking, and monthly drug use. A subgroup of CCSs was identified as excessive alcohol consumers, daily smokers, and monthly drug users. CONCLUSIONS: The current results emphasize the factors associated with unhealthy behaviors and the potential identification of CCSs who exhibit multiple unhealthy lifestyle behaviors.

Effectiveness of an Interactive mHealth App (EVITE) in Improving Lifestyle After a Coronary Event: Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Coronary heart disease is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Secondary prevention is essential, as it reduces the risk of further coronary events. Mobile health (mHealth) technology could become a useful tool to improve lifestyles. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an mHealth intervention on people with coronary heart disease who received percutaneous coronary intervention. Improvements in lifestyle regarding diet, physical activity, and smoking; level of knowledge of a healthy lifestyle and the control of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs); and therapeutic adherence and quality of life were analyzed. METHODS: This was a randomized controlled trial with a parallel group design assigned 1:1 to either an intervention involving a smartphone app (mHealth group) or to standard health care (control group). The app was used for setting aims, the self-monitoring of lifestyle and CVRFs using measurements and records, educating people with access to information on their screens about healthy lifestyles and adhering to treatment, and giving motivation through feedback about achievements and aspects to improve. Both groups were assessed after 9 months. The primary outcome variables were adherence to the Mediterranean diet, frequency of food consumed, patient-reported physical activity, smoking, knowledge of healthy lifestyles and the control of CVRFs, adherence to treatment, quality of life, well-being, and satisfaction. RESULTS: The study analyzed 128 patients, 67 in the mHealth group and 61 in the control group; most were male (92/128, 71.9%), with a mean age of 59.49 (SD 8.97) years. Significant improvements were observed in the mHealth group compared with the control group regarding adherence to the Mediterranean diet (mean 11.83, SD 1.74 points vs mean 10.14, SD 2.02 points; P<.001), frequency of food consumption, patient-reported physical activity (mean 619.14, SD 318.21 min/week vs mean 471.70, SD 261.43 min/week; P=.007), giving up smoking (25/67, 75% vs 11/61, 42%; P=.01), level of knowledge of healthy lifestyles and the control of CVRFs (mean 118.70, SD 2.65 points vs mean 111.25, SD 9.05 points; P<.001), and the physical component of the quality of life 12-item Short Form survey (SF-12; mean 45.80, SD 10.79 points vs mean 41.40, SD 10.78 points; P=.02). Overall satisfaction was higher in the mHealth group (mean 48.22, SD 3.89 vs mean 46.00, SD 4.82 points; P=.002) and app satisfaction and usability were high (mean 44.38, SD 6.18 out of 50 points and mean 95.22, SD 7.37 out of 100). CONCLUSIONS: The EVITE app was effective in improving the lifestyle of patients in terms of adherence to the Mediterranean diet, frequency of healthy food consumption, physical activity, giving up smoking, knowledge of healthy lifestyles and controlling CVRFs, quality of life, and overall satisfaction. The app satisfaction and usability were excellent. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04118504; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04118504.

[Cost-effectiveness analysis of fracture liaison services in Catalonia]. / Análisis de coste-efectividad de las Unidades de Coordinación de Fracturas en Cataluña.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the cost-effectiveness of Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) compared to the standard of care for secondary prevention of fragility fractures form the perspective of the Catalan Health Service. METHODS: Cost-utility assessment through a Markov model that simulated disease progression of a patients' cohort candidates to initiate antiosteoporotic treatment after a fragility fracture. A time horizon of 10 years and a 6-month duration per cycle was established. Clinical, economics and quality of life parameters were obtained from the literature and derived from four Catalan FLS. The Catalan Health Service perspective was adopted, considering direct health costs expressed in 2022 euros. A 3% discount rate was applied on costs and outcomes. Uncertainty was assessed through multiple sensitivity analyses. RESULTS: Compared to the standard of care, FLS would promote antiosteoporotic initiation and persistence, reducing the incidence and mortality associated with subsequent fragility fractures. This incremental clinical benefit was estimated at 0.055 years and 0.112 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) per patient. A higher cost (€1,073.79 per patient) was estimated, resulting into an incremental cost-utility ratio of €9,602.72 per QALYs gained. The sensitivity analyses performed were consistent, corroborating the robustness and conservative approach of the base-case. CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of FLS for the secondary prevention of FF would represent a cost-effective strategy from the Catalan Health Service perspective.

Co-Designed Cardiac Rehabilitation for the Secondary Prevention of Stroke (CARESS): A Pilot Program Evaluation.

Structured health system-based programs, such as cardiac rehabilitation, may reduce the risk of recurrent stroke. This study aimed to co-design and evaluate a structured program of rehabilitation, developed based on insights from focus groups involving stroke survivors and health professionals. Conducted in Tasmania, Australia in 2019, the 7-week program comprised one hour of group exercise and one hour of education each week. Functional capacity (6 min walk test), fatigue, symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire), and lifestyle were assessed pre- and post-program, with a historical control group for comparison. Propensity score matching determined the average treatment effect (ATE) of the program. Key themes from the co-design focus groups included the need for coordinated care, improved psychosocial management, and including carers and peers in programs. Of the 23 people approached, 10 participants (70% men, mean age 67.4 ± 8.6 years) completed the program without adverse events. ATE analysis revealed improvements in functional capacity (139 m, 95% CI 44, 234) and fatigue (-5 units, 95% CI -9, -1), with a small improvement in symptoms of depression (-0.8 units, 95% CI -1.8, 0.2) compared to controls. The co-designed program demonstrated feasibility, acceptability, and positive outcomes, suggesting its potential to support stroke survivors.

Cost-effectiveness and budget impact analysis of screening and preventive interventions for cardiovascular disease in Myanmar: an economic modelling study.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remains a leading cause of mortality in Myanmar. Despite the burden, CVD preventive services receive low government and donor budgets, which has led to poor CVD outcomes. Methods: We conducted a cost-effective analysis and a budget impact analysis on CVD prevention strategies recommended by the WHO. A Markov model was used to analyse the cost and quality-adjusted life year (QALY) from healthcare provider and societal perspectives. We calculated transition probabilities from WHO CVD risk data and obtained treatment effects and costs from secondary sources. Subgroup analysis was performed on different sex and age groups. We framed the budget impact analysis from a healthcare provider perspective to assess the affordability of providing CVD preventive care. Findings: The most cost-effective strategy from the healthcare provider perspective varied. The combination of screening, primary prevention, and secondary prevention (Sc-PP-SP) (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio [ICER]: US$1574/QALY) is most cost-effective at the three times gross domestic product (GDP) per capita threshold, while at one time the GDP per capita threshold, secondary prevention is the most cost-effective strategy (ICER: US$160/QALY). Sc-PP-SP is the most cost-effective strategy from the societal perspective (ICER: US$647/QALY). Among age groups, intervention at age 45 years appeared to be the most cost-effective option for both men and women. The budget impact revealed the Sc-PP-SP would avert 55,000 acute CVD events and 28,000 CVD-related deaths with a cost of US$157 million for the first year of CVD preventive care. Interpretation: A combination of screening, primary prevention, and secondary prevention is cost-effective to reduce CVD-related deaths in Myanmar. This study provides evidence for the government and development partners to increase investment in and support for CVD prevention. These findings not only provide a basis for efficient resource allocation but also underscore the importance of adopting a total cardiovascular risk approach to CVD prevention, in alignment with global health goals. Funding: Pilot grant from Duke Global Health Institute, USA.

Effectiveness and Satisfaction with Telemedicine in Geriatric Patients at High Risk of Fragility Fractures.

Background: Telemedicine has increasingly widespread to improve the monitoring of patients with chronic diseases. Secondary prevention of fragility fractures is an urgent matter to be addressed by means of available technology, although supported by little evidence so far. We investigated the feasibility, efficacy, and satisfaction of managing older adults at high risk of fragility fractures during the COVID-19 lockdown. Methods: During the period January to July 2021, a prospective observational study for safety and adherence purposes was conducted among older adults (n = 407) with ongoing treatments for secondary prevention of fragility fractures. The study procedures comply with national and regional resolutions related to telemedicine service (TS), including equipment, staff behaviors, and patient reports. Results: A majority (86.48% [n = 352]) of the eligible patients joined the remote visits, mainly women (88.2%), 81.4 ± 8.8 years of age, 49.6% independent in 5 out of 6 BADL, despite high comorbidity (4.9 ± 1.5), and polypharmacy (4.9 ± 3.1). Almost all were on second-line antifracture treatments (95.58%) due to previous major (84.03%) and minor (42.5%) fragility fractures. About 58% reported good and very good reliability of the internet network, allowing easy access to the TS platform, and 54% declared the degree of satisfaction with TS as good and very good. About 75% of clinicians acknowledged the efficacy of TS and expressed willingness to recommend the use of TS to colleagues. Ultimately, 68% of specialists defined the time allocated for patients' remote visits as acceptable. Conclusion: TS may be an opportunity to improve the availability of appropriate health care services to satisfy patients' needs and optimize health care resource allocation.

Stroke Recurrence Rate and Risk Factors Among Stroke Survivors in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review.

Purpose: Evidence supporting secondary stroke in sub-Saharan Africa is scarce. This study describes the incidence of stroke recurrence and associated risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods and Materials: Scientific databases were systematically searched from January 2000 to December 2022 for population-based observational studies, case-control or cohort studies of recurrent stroke involving adults aged 18 years and above in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We assessed the quality of the eligible studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist for observational studies. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Stroke recurrence rates in SSA ranged from 9.4% to 25%. Majority of the studies were conducted from Western Africa and showed that stroke recurrence rates are high within sub-Saharan Africa ranging from 2% to 25%. The known stroke risk factors such as hypertension, chronic alcohol consumption, etc., remained the leading causes of stroke recurrence. The studies reported a higher mortality rate ranging from 20.5 -23% among those with recurrent strokes compared to primary strokes. Conclusion: This systematic review is an update and summary of the available literature on stroke recurrence within sub-Saharan Africa. Further studies are warranted to assess the outcomes and burden of stroke recurrence in SSA.