In a nutshell
This study investigated the risk of major adverse events in patients with coronary (CAD) or peripheral artery disease (PAD).
They found that several factors could predict the risk of major adverse cardiac or limb events in CAD/PAD.
Some background
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is caused by reduced blood flow to the extremities. PAD usually affects the lower limbs. CAD can lead to major adverse cardiac events (MACE). These include heart attacks, stroke, and death. Major adverse limb events (MALE) are associated with PAD. These include a lack of oxygen to limb tissue and amputation.
CAD and PAD can be treated using multiple approaches. These include lifestyle modification and medication. Surgery may also be used to remove blockages and restore blood flow. MACE and MALE can lead to severe long-term effects as well as death. Reducing the risk of MACE and MALE is important. It is unclear if certain factors can predict the risk of MACE/MALE.
Methods & findings
This study included 20,932 patients. 86.9% had CAD and 26.1% had PAD. Patient data were obtained from a database. A number of factors were analyzed to determine if they could predict the risk of MACE/MALE. These included age, body mass index (BMI) and sex. Patients were followed up for an average of 2.3 years.
During follow-up, 13% of all patients experienced a MACE/MALE. Patients that experienced MACE/MALE were more likely to be older. They were less likely to be male or white. Patients with a history of diabetes, stroke or heart failure (HF) were more likely to have MACE/MALE.
11 factors were accurate predictors of MACE/MALE in CAD patients. Among these, dementia was associated with a 84% increased risk of MACE/MALE. PAD increased the risk of MACE/MALE by 78% and diabetes by 47%. 8 factors were accurate predictors of MACE/MALE in PAD patients. The risk of MACE/MALE was 59% higher in patients with diabetes, 58% higher in those with HF and 53% higher in those with rheumatic disease.
The bottom line
They found that several factors such as age, diabetes, or heart failure could predict the risk of MACE/MALE in patients with CAD/PAD.
The fine print
This was a retrospective study. This means it was based on medical records. There may be other factors that can predict MACE/MALE risk. More research is needed.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding CAD please discuss this with your physician.
Published By :
Advances in therapy
Date :
Nov 08, 2019
