Lung function as independent predictor of cardiovascular disease risk: implications for practice and policy

The intimately connected physiology of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems gives rise to numerous shared risk factors and disease pathways, contributing significantly to the high incidence of co-occurring heart and lung diseases.1 For example, individuals diagnosed with asthma are at 15%–53% higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD),2 while those diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have 2–5 times higher CVD risk.3 The association between respiratory impairment and CVD is not restricted to individuals with diagnosed respiratory conditions. Indeed, several studies have shown that impaired lung function, regardless of diagnosis, is associated with heightened CVD risk.4 5 However, the implications of such associations for clinical practice and policymaking have remained underexplored. Multivariable risk prediction is the cornerstone of primary prevention of CVD.6 For instance, statin therapy and lifestyle modifications are recommended for individuals without history of CVD...
Source: Thorax - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Thorax Editorial Source Type: research