The Intersection Between COVID-19, Cardiovascular Disease, and Diet: a Review
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the top comorbidities associated with COVID-19 —both pre- and post-infection. This review examines the relationships between COVID-19 infection and cardiovascular health, with a specific focus on diet as an important modifiable risk factor.Recent FindingsPandemic era studies of individuals battling and recovering from COVID-19 infection suggest a strong link between metabolic diseases, such as CVD, and SARS-CoV-2 infection susceptibility and severity. Other studies also demonstrate how COVID-19 lockdown policies and quarantine recommendations led to drastic ...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 30, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Updates in Drug Treatment of Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo provide an insight into the new pharmacological options for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG).Recent FindingssHTG is difficult to treat. The majority of the traditional pharmacological agents available have limited success in both robustly decreasing triglyceride levels and/or in reducing the incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP), the most severe complication of sHTG. Therapeutic options with novel mechanisms of action have been developed, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) targetingAPOC3 andANGPTL3. The review discusses also 2 abandoned d...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 29, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Mechanosensing and Mechanosignal Transduction in Atherosclerosis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review aims to summarize the latest findings on mechanosensing in atherosclerosis, elucidating the molecular mechanisms, cellular players, and potential therapeutic targets.Recent FindingsAtherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaque within arterial walls, is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease-related mortality and morbidity. Interestingly, atherosclerosis predominantly occurs in arterial areas with curves and branches. In these regions, endothelial cells encounter irregular blood flow with distinctive low-intensity fluctuating sh...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 24, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The Pandemic of Coronary Heart Disease in the Middle East and North Africa: What Clinicians Need to Know
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCoronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and disability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). While the prevention, diagnosis, and management of CHD have been detailed in international guidelines, we aimed in this review to quantify the pandemic of CHD in the MENA region and highlight regional patient characteristics, clinical challenges, and future directions to optimize CHD care in the region.Recent FindingsPatients with CHD in the MENA feature younger age at presentation and worse prognosis in women. Despite the high burden of CHD risk factors, many of the...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 24, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The Pandemic of Coronary Artery Disease in the Sub-Saharan Africa: What Clinicians Need to Know
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally with an accelerated increase in CVD ‑related death in Africa and other low‑middle‑income countries. This review is aimed at highlighting the burden of coronary artery disease CAD, its peculiarities as well as challenges of management in sub-Saharan Africa.Recent FindingsRecent data revealed a shift from high incidence of CVDs associated with poverty and malnutrition (such as rheumatic heart disease) initially, which are now falling, to rising incidence of other non-communicable CVDs (such as hypertension, c...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 22, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Hypertension and Dyslipidemia: the Two Partners in Endothelium-Related Crime
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe goal of this article is to characterize the endothelium ’s role in the development of hypertension and dyslipidemia and to point out promising therapeutic directions.Recent FindingsDyslipidemia may facilitate the development of hypertension, whereas the collaboration of these two silent killers potentiates the risk of atherosclerosis. The common pathophysiological denominator for hypertension and dyslipidemia is endothelial cell dysfunction, which manifests as dysregulation of homeostasis, redox balance, vascular tone, inflammation, and thrombosis. Treatment focused on mediators acting in the...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 18, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Cholesterol Screening in Children: Is a Universal Approach Working?
We present an overview of the present state of childhood cholesterol screening, summarizing historical and contemporary guidelines and collating evidence of low adherence to current guidelines. We contend that novel approaches to universal cholesterol screening in childhood are warranted, and we present potential opportunities for improvement. We call for new and universal pediatric cholesterol screening guidelines. (Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports)
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 18, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Flow-mediated Dilatation and Carotid Intima Media Thickness: A Meta-analysis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and explore the factors influencing these effects.Recent FindingsFMD was significantly higher in the omega-3 fatty acid group compared to the control group (mean difference = 0.90%;p = 0.0003). In particular, the subgroup with CHD (both EPA + DHA < 1 g/day and ≥ 1 g/day) and the subgroup without CHD but with CHD risk factors (only EPA + DHA ≥ 1 g/day) showed significantly increased FMD after supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids. CIMT...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 8, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Sport as Medicine for Dyslipidemia (and Other Risk Factors)
In conclusion, sport can be considered a form of medicine for dyslipidemia. Regular physical activity and participation in sports can improve lipid profiles, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and improve overall health. It is essential to incorporate exercise and a healthy lifestyle into one ’s daily routine to prevent and manage dyslipidemia effectively. (Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports)
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 7, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Coronary Heart Disease: the Next Surge
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this narrative review, we highlight different ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted coronary heart disease (CHD) burden and how a surge in morbidity and mortality may be expected in the near future. We also discuss potential solutions, and the direction subsequent research and corrective actions should take.Recent FindingsCOVID-19 has been implicated in the development and worsening of CHD via acute and chronic mechanisms in the form of plaque rupture, destabilization, and sustenance of a chronic inflammatory state leading to long COVID syndrome and increased rates of myocardial infar...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - August 2, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Algorithms for Treating Dyslipidemia in Youth
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe goal of this article is to review algorithms for treating dyslipidemia in youth, discuss pitfalls, propose enhanced algorithms to address pitfalls, and consider future directions.Recent FindingsThe presence of modifiable and non-modifiable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors during childhood is associated with CVD-related events in adulthood. Recent data has shown that childhood initiation of statin therapy in youth < 18 years of age with familial hypercholesterolemia reduces the risk of adult CVD. However, pediatric dyslipidemia remains undertreated in part due to a lack of pri...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - July 31, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Protective Effects of Different Classes, Intensity, Cumulative Dose-Dependent of Statins Against Primary Ischemic Stroke in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of different statin classes, intensity, and cumulative dose-dependent against primary ischemic stroke in patients with T2DM.Recent FindingsThe Cox hazards model was used to evaluate statin use on primary ischemic stroke. Case group: T2DM patients who received statins; control group: T2DM patients who received no statins during the follow-up. Adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for primary ischemic stroke was 0.45 (95% CI: 0.44 to 0.46). Cox regression analysis showed significant reductions in primary ischemic stroke incidence in users of differ...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - July 29, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric and Adolescent ASCVD Risk Factors
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this review, we provide insight into and raise awareness of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of acquired atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk factors in adolescents. We highlight data that could be used to guide the response to a future pandemic with the goal of reducing premature cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related morbidity and premature mortality.Recent FindingsDuring the global COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals, including youth, voluntarily or were mandated to alter the usual lifestyle in order to limit exposure and reduce the spread of the virus. Some ...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - July 20, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Community-Based Interventions to Address Disparities in Cardiometabolic Diseases Among Minoritized Racial and Ethnic Groups
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are leading causes of death and disproportionally impact historically marginalized racial/ethnic groups in the United States. The American Heart Association developed the Life ’s Essential 8 (LE8) to promote optimal cardiovascular health (CVH) through eight health behaviors and health factors. The purpose of this review is to summarize contemporary community-engaged research (CER) studies incorporating the LE8 framework among racial/ethnic groups.Review of FindingsLimited studies focused on the interface of CER and LE8. Based on synthesis of articles in this review...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - July 10, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
An Update on Nutrition Guidance for Cardiovascular Health
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe goal of this article is to summarize recent guidance on diet and cardiovascular health.Recent FindingsCardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the USA, and diet significantly impacts cardiovascular disease risk. The focus of contemporary dietary recommendations has shifted from single nutrient replacements to dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean, healthy USA, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, and healthy plant-based patterns.SummaryRecommended dietary patterns emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes/pulses, seafood, lean meats, and fish/sea...
Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - July 10, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
