Effects of pravastatin on coronary events in 2073 patients with low levels of both low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol: results from the LIPID study.

AIMS: Fibrates or nicotinic acid are usually recommended for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in patients with low plasma levels of both low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) < or =140 mg/dL (< or =3.6 mmol/L) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) < or =40 mg/dL (< or =1.03 mmol/L). The LIPID trial, a randomised, placebo-controlled trial in 9014 patients at 87 centres in Australia and New Zealand, provided an opportunity to investigate the effects of an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor in patients with low LDL-C and low HDL-C. METHODS AND RESULTS: Participants in this post hoc substudy were 2073 patients aged 31-75 years with baseline LDL-C < or =140 mg/dL (< or =3.6 mmol/L), HDL-C < or =40 mg/dL (< or =1.03 mmol/L), and triglyceride < or =300 mg/dL (< or =3.4 mmol/L). The relative risk reduction with pravastatin treatment was 27% for major coronary events (95% CI 8-42%), 27% for coronary heart disease mortality (95% CI 0-47%), 21% for all-cause mortality (95% CI 0-38%), and 51% for stroke (95% CI 24-69%). The number needed to treat to prevent a major coronary event over 6 years was 22. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with pravastatin in patients with both low LDL-C and low HDL-C significantly reduced major coronary events, stroke, and all-cause mortality. The level of HDL-C is crucial to the risk of recurrent CHD events and, consequently, the benefit of lowering LDL-C.     

Associations between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and haemorrhagic stroke

OBJECTIVETo investigate the associations between the blood concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and the clinical features of haemorrhagic stroke.METHODSThis study analysed the data from patients with acute haemorrhagic stroke at a comprehensive stroke centre from 2013 to 2018. Patients were stratified into three groups according to their baseline LDL-C levels: < 70, 70 to < 100 and ≥ 100 mg/dL. We used multivariate logistic regression models to analyse the associations between LDL-C and the risks of having severe neurological deficits (National Institute Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] scores ≥ 15) and unfavourable outcomes (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] scores>2) at discharge.RESULTSSix-hundred and six patients were analysed. Their median age was 58 years. Among the patients, 75 (12%) patients had LDL-C levels < 70 mg/dL, 194 (32%) patients had LDL-C levels between 70 to < 100 mg/dL and the other 337 (56%) patients had LDL-C levels ≥ 100 mg/dL. Patients with higher LDL-C levels were less likely to suffer severe neurological deficits (LDL-C: 70 to < 100 vs. < 70 mg/dL, adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.15–0.57; LDL-C: ≥ 100 vs. < 70 mg/dL, adjusted OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.15–0.51) and to have unfavourable outcomes at discharge (LDL-C: 70 to < 100 vs. < 70 mg/dL, adjusted OR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.29–0.87 and LDL-C: ≥ 100 vs. < 70 mg/dL, adjusted OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.28–0.78). CONCLUSIONSAn LDL-C level < 70 mg/dL was independently associated with severe neurological deficits of haemorrhagic stroke and may increase the risks of unfavourable outcomes at discharge.

Hyperlipidaemia, especially increased levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), is an independent risk factor for acute ischaemic stroke (AIS).^{[1, 2]} In a cohort study with 27,937 healthy women, subjects with LDL-C ≥ 151 mg/dL had a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.85 to experience an AIS within 11 years relative to those with an LDL-C < 96 mg/dL, where the 95% confidence interval (CI) was 1.22 to 2.80. ^[3]Lipid-lowering therapy is one of the critical strategies for both primary and secondary prevention of AIS.^[4,5] A meta-analysis of the AIS prevention studies indicated that lipid-lowering therapy was associated with lower risks of AIS in the primary (risk ratio (RR): 0.70, 95% CI: 0.60–0.82; P < 0.001) and the secondary (RR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.70-0.90; P < 0.001) prevention settings. ^[6] Additionally, a meta-analysis in the setting of atherosclerosis coronary heart disease (CHD) also showed that with every 39 mg/dL decrease in the LDL-C levels, the risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (including CHD death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, AIS or unstable angina requiring hospitalization) appeared to be 24% lower (adjusted HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63–0.91; P = 0.0025).^[7] Our prior study found that achieving an LDL-C < 70 mg/dL may be effective in inhibiting the progression of carotid atherosclerosis plaques in patients with AIS. ^[8]However, lower LDL-C levels might increase the risks of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH). LDL-C < 90 mg/dL was associated with a higher risk of haemorrhage transformation after AIS, which was attributable to large artery atherothrombosis: the risks were increased by 54.0% with each 39 mg/dL decrease in the LDL-C levels (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 0.46 per 39 mg/dL increase, 95% CI: 0.22–0.98). ^[9] A case-control study found the LDL-C level was significantly lower in patients with ICH compared to the controls (114 vs. 128 mg/dL; P = 0.016).^[10] A post hoc analysis of the SPARCL study also found that patients with LDL-C < 70 mg/dL had a trend of increased risks of ICH relative to those with LDL-C ≥ 100 mg/dL (HR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.78–2.09). ^[11] Above all, the target value of LDL-C to be achieved through lipid-lowering therapy is still unclear due to the potential risks of ICH. We carried out a single-centre retrospective cohort study to investigate the associations between the LDL-C levels (< 70, 70 to < 100 and ≥ 100 mg/dL) and the outcomes of haemorrhagic stroke to provide preliminary information about safe targets for lipid-lowering therapy.     

Total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio vs LDL cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio as indices of ischemic heart disease risk in men: the Quebec Cardiovascular Study.

BACKGROUND: Total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)/HDL-C ratios are used to predict ischemic heart disease risk. There is, however, no consensus on which of these 2 indices is superior. The objective of the present study was to present evidence that the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio may underestimate ischemic heart disease risk in overweight hyperinsulinemic patients with high triglyceride (TG)-low HDL-C dyslipidemia. METHODS: A total of 2103 middle-aged men in whom measurements of the metabolic profile were performed in the fasting state were recruited from 7 suburbs of the Quebec metropolitan area. RESULTS: The relationship of LDL-C/HDL-C to TC/HDL-C ratios was examined among men in the Quebec Cardiovascular Study classified into tertiles of fasting TG levels. For any given LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, the TC/HDL-C ratio was higher among men in the top TG tertile (>168 mg/dL [>1.9 mmol/L]) than in men in the first and second TG tertiles. Adjustment of the TC/HDL-C ratio for LDL-C/HDL-C by covariance analysis generated significant differences in average TC/HDL-C ratios among TG tertiles (P<.001). Greater differences in features of the insulin resistance syndrome (insulinemia, apolipoprotein B, and LDL size) were noted across tertiles of the TC/HDL-C ratio than tertiles of the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. CONCLUSION: Variation in the TC/HDL-C ratio may be associated with more substantial alterations in metabolic indices predictive of ischemic heart disease risk and related to the insulin resistance syndrome than variation in the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio.     

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and objective measures of lower extremity performance in older nondisabled persons: the InChianti study

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the independent association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and objective measures of lower extremity performance.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional cohort study.
SETTING: Community-based.
PARTICIPANTS: Eight hundred thirty-six nondisabled women and men aged 65 and older enrolled in the Invecchiare in Chianti study.
MESASUREMENTS: Lower extremity performance was assessed using 4-m walking speed at fast pace, 400-m walking speed, and knee extension torque. Fasting HDL-C levels were determined using commercial enzymatic tests.
RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 73.7 (65–92), and 55.6% were women. After adjusting for potential confounders (sociodemographic factors, smoking, physical activity, body composition, and clinical conditions including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, inflammatory markers, and serum testosterone) HDL-C levels were significantly associated with knee extension torque in men and women and with 4-m and 400-m walking speed in men. Men in the highest tertile of the HDL-C distribution (>55 mg/dL) had, on average, a three times greater probability of belonging to the best tertile of all indexes of lower extremity performance, including 4-m fast walking speed (odds ratio (OR)=2.57, 95%=confidence interval (CI)=1.07–6.17), 400-m walking speed (OR=3.74, 95% CI=1.20–11.7), and knee extension torque (OR=3.63, 95%=CI 1.41–9.33). Path analysis suggested a direct relationship between HDL-C and knee extension torque.
CONCLUSION: In older nondisabled persons, HDL-C levels are highly correlated with knee extension torque and walking speed. Further research should focus on the biological mechanism of this association.     

Effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting on lipid and lipoprotein parameters: An updated meta-analysis

AimsThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify several aspects of intermittent fasting during the month of Ramadan on lipid and lipoprotein levels in apparently healthy subjects.Data synthesisWe searched PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases and the reference lists of previous reviews, up to Feb 2019 for studies that investigated the effects of Ramadan fasting on fasting levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL-C among healthy subjects including pregnant women and athletic subjects. Studies were selected for quality assessment, meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, and meta-regressions; data of 33 eligible studies, conducted between 1978 and 2019, were included in the analysis.ResultsIntermittent fasting showed no significant effect on circulating TG (WMD = ?0.38 mg/dl, 95% CI = ?5.33, 4.57), TC (WMD = ?1.58 mg/dl, 95% CI = ?6.04, 2.88), and LDL-C levels (WMD = 1.85 mg/dl, 95% CI = 0.77, 2.92). Overall, HDL-C (WMD = ?2.97 mg/dl; 95% CI = ?6.43, 0.48 mg/dl) and VLDL-C (WMD = ?1.41 mg/dl; 95% CI = ?2.73, ?0.10 mg/dl) significantly decreased after Ramadan fasting. A significant increase in LDL-C levels was observed in athletic subjects (WMD = 2.97 mg/dl; 95% CI = 0.80, 5.13) and apparently healthy subjects (WMD = 1.81 mg/dl; 95% CI = 0.55, 3.07). Change in TG levels was associated with age (β = ?0.94, P = 0.043), its baseline values (β = ?0.44, P = 0.001), and weight change during the fasting period (β = ?0.57, P = 0.032).ConclusionRamadan fasting may be accompanied by a moderate improvement of lipid and lipoprotein parameters, especially HDL-C levels; fasting appears to be more beneficial for men and athletic subjects.     

Clinical significance of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients with low low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

OBJECTIVES: We sought to evaluate the significance of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the context of low low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). BACKGROUND: Earlier studies support an inverse correlation between circulating HDL-C and coronary risk in patients with normal or elevated LDL-C. METHODS: This study involved 4,188 patients attending the Palo Alto Veterans Administration Medical Center or affiliated clinics with LDL-C levels below 60 mg/dl. Outcomes were examined 1 year after the index LDL-C date. The combined primary end point was myocardial injury or hospitalization from ischemic heart disease. The secondary end point was all-cause mortality. RESULTS: Mean HDL-C levels (mg/dl) by quartile (Q) were: Q1 28 mg/dl, Q2 36 mg/dl, Q3 43 mg/dl, and Q4 63 mg/dl. The rate of myocardial injury or hospitalization for ischemic heart disease showed an inverse relationship to HDL-C (adjusted odds ratios: Q1 1.59 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16 to 2.19], Q2 1.39 [95% CI 1.01 to 1.92], Q3 1.33 [95% CI 0.96 to 1.84], and Q4 reference) that persisted regardless of statin use or recent myocardial injury. Analyzing HDL-C as a continuous variable revealed a 10% [95% CI 3% to 17%] increase in the combined end point of myocardial injury or hospitalization for ischemic heart disease for every 10-mg/dl decrease in HDL-C. The unadjusted and adjusted incidence of all-cause mortality demonstrated a U-shaped relationship to HDL-C (adjusted odds ratios: Q1 1.13 [95% CI 0.79 to 1.62], Q2 0.97 [95% CI 0.67 to 1.40], Q3 0.74 [95% CI 0.50 to 1.09], and Q4 reference). CONCLUSIONS: The inverse relationship between HDL-C and coronary risk persists even among patients with LDL-C below 60 mg/dl, although a U-shaped relationship is observed between HDL-C and all-cause mortality.     

Aerobic exercise and lipids and lipoproteins in patients with cardiovascular disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE: Use the meta-analytic approach to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on lipids and lipoproteins in adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD). METHODS: Studies were retrieved via electronic databases, review of reference lists from retrieved articles, including reviews, and hand searching. Inclusion criteria were: (1) randomized controlled trials, (2) aerobic exercise >or=4 weeks as an intervention, (3) studies published in English language only between January 1, 1955 and January 1, 2005, (4) studies published in journals or as dissertations or master's theses, (5) human subjects >or=18 years, (6) all subjects diagnosed with some type of CVD, and (7) pre and post data available for total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and/or triglycerides (TG). Random-effects models were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Of the more than 3,000 studies reviewed, a total of 10 representing 1,260 subjects (580 exercise, 680 control) were included in our analysis. There was a statistically significant increase of 9% in HDL-C (mean +/- SEM, 3.7 +/- 1.3 mg/dL; 95% CI, 1.2 to 6.1 mg/dL) and a statistically significant decrease of 11% in TG (-19.3 +/- 5.4 mg/dL; 95% CI, -30.1 to -8.5 mg/dL), but no statistically significant decreases in TC or LDL-C (TC, -8.8 +/- 6.8 mg/dL; 95% CI, -22.3 to 4.7 mg/dL; LDL-C, -7.7 +/- 6.0 mg/dL; 95% CI, -19.5 to 4.2 mg/dL). CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that chronic aerobic exercise increases HDL-C and decreases TG in adults, especially men, with CVD.     

Low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol are a marker of disability in the elderly

BACKGROUND: In the elderly, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) seems to have further clinical meanings besides the inverse relationship with coronary heart disease (CHD); indeed, low values have been found in elderly subjects with functional disability, chronic illness, and in severe clinical conditions. OBJECTIVE: To verify the hypothesis that low HDL-C might be a 'marker' for disability, we evaluated the relationship between lipoprotein parameters and functional status, over a period of 2 years, in a large sample of institutionalized elderly. METHODS: 344 institutionalized subjects aged over 65 years were studied. They were divided into two groups according to basal disability level: 'low-mild': class A-E, and 'high': class F-G of the Katz index. 124 survivors, independent in at least two basic activities of daily living (BADL) at enrollment, were divided into two groups on the basis of 2 years' modifications in functional status: stable/improved or worsened (lost >/=2 BADL). RESULTS: Total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and apo A-I levels were lower in the high disability group, while no differences in triglycerides and apo B levels emerged. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that severe disability was associated with HDL-C (II vs. III tertile: OR 2.01; CI 95% 1.04-3.91; I vs. III tertile: OR 2.52; CI 95% 1.23-5. 15), total cholesterol (I vs. III tertile: OR 2.35; CI 95% 1.14-4. 81), blood glucose (OR 0.98), and body mass index (OR 0.91), independently from uric acid, number of pathologies, number of drugs, body cell mass, vitamin B(12) and folic acid plasma levels, waist/hip ratio, age, and gender. Subjects who lost >/=2 BADL in the 2-year follow-up consistently showed lower basal HDL-C levels compared to subjects with stable/improved functional status, and this difference was significant after adjustment for basal Katz class, age, gender, number of pathologies, blood glucose, body mass index, and waist/hip ratio. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that in the elderly severe disability is strongly associated with low HDL-C levels. Longitudinal data support the hypothesis that low HDL-C might be considered as a marker for 'ongoing' disability in BADL.     

Association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to apolipoprotein A ratio and diabetic retinopathy: A cross-sectional study

AimsOur study is aimed to investigate the relationship between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to apolipoprotein A ratio (HDL-C/ApoA) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsWe retrospect the consecutive medical files of 1058 subjects with T2DM and recorded their clinical information and laboratory findings. Subjects with T2DM were divided into DR group (n = 522) and non-DR group (n = 536). We compared the lipids values of the two groups. Meanwhile we also observed the prevalence of DR at different HDL-C/ApoA levels. Binary logistic regression was used to correct confounding factors. Smooth curve fitting model and subgroup analysis were used to determine the correlation, non-linear relationship and threshold effect between HDL/ApoA and DR.ResultsHDL-C/ApoA value of DR group was significantly higher than non-DR group (0.88 ± 0.17 vs 0.84 ± 0.13, P < 0.05). The prevalence of DR significantly increased as HDL-C/ApoA level increased. There was association between HDL/ApoA levels and DR in the adjusted models (OR 1.55, 95%CI 0.60 to 4.02). After full adjustments for other relevant clinical covariates, patients with HDL/ApoA values in quartile 3 (Q3) had 1.50 times (95 % CI 1.00 to 2.17) and in Q4 had 2.39 times (95%CI 1.65 to 3.47) as high as the risk of DR compared with patients in Q1. HDL/ApoA showed a non-linear relationship with DR, with an inflection point value of 0.759. When HDL/ApoA>0.759, HDL/ApoA was significantly positively associated with DR (HR = 26.508, 95 % CI 7.623–92.174; P < 0.0001). Compared to patients with age < 60, HDL/ApoA was obviously associated with DR when age ≥ 60 (OR = 38.05, 95 % CI 8.06–179.69; P < 0.001).ConclusionsHDL-C/ApoA was found to be associated with the incidence of DR in patients with T2DM. After adjusting potential related factors HDL-C/ApoA OR value was 1.55 (95%CI 0.60 to 4.02). A non-linear association between HDL/ApoA and DR was observed in T2DM. Subgroup analysis showed that age could alter the relationship between HDL/ApoA and DR.     

Myeloperoxidase predicts progression of carotid stenosis in states of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect of myeloperoxidase (MPO) on progression of carotid stenosis in states of high and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. BACKGROUND: Myeloperoxidase is pivotally involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In vitro data suggest that MPO exerts deleterious effects via oxidative modulation of lipoproteins. METHODS: We prospectively studied 1,019 of 1,268 consecutive patients who were asymptomatic with respect to carotid artery disease. Patients underwent serial carotid ultrasound investigations at baseline and after a follow-up interval of median 7.5 months (range 6 to 9 months), categorizing carotid arteries as 0% to 29%, 30% to 49%, 50% to 69%, 70% to 89%, or 90% to 99% stenosed or occluded. The MPO, HDL-C, and LDL-C levels were measured at baseline, grouped by medians, and correlated with progression of carotid atherosclerosis. RESULTS: Progression of carotid atherosclerosis was found in 100 of 1,019 patients (9.8%). Myeloperoxidase (p = 0.014) but not HDL-C (p = 0.95) or LDL-C (p = 0.30) were associated with progressive disease. However, MPO > or =310 ng/ml was significantly associated with progressive disease (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39 to 4.75) only in patients with HDL-C levels <49 mg/dl. Otherwise, in patients with higher HDL-C levels (> or =49 mg/dl), MPO > or =310 ng/ml did not predict disease progression (adjusted OR 1.42, 95% CI 0.72 to 2.78). No interaction of MPO with LDL-C was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Myeloperoxidase was associated with progression of carotid atherosclerosis in patients with HDL cholesterol levels below 49 mg/dl.     

Prevalence and predictors of dyslipidemia in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PURPOSE: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome are hyperandrogenemic and insulin resistant, which are associated with alterations in circulating lipid and lipoprotein levels. We sought to determine the prevalence of, and risk factors for, lipid abnormalities in these women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Non-Hispanic white women with polycystic ovary syndrome (n = 195) and ethnically matched control women (n = 62) had fasting blood obtained for hormone and lipid levels. Subjects were categorized by body mass index (nonobese <27 kg/m(2), obese > or =27 kg/m(2)), and analyses were adjusted for age. RESULTS: Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels increased significantly in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (n = 153) compared with obese control women (n = 35; mean difference in total cholesterol level = 29 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 14 to 45 mg/dL; P <0.001; mean difference in LDL-C level = 16 mg/dL; 95% CI: 4 to 30 mg/dL; P = 0.006). Similarly, total cholesterol and LDL-C levels increased significantly in nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (n = 42) compared with nonobese control women (n = 27; mean difference in total cholesterol = 32 mg/dL; 95% CI: 13 to 52 mg/dL; P <0.001; mean difference in LDL-C level = 32 mg/dL; 95% CI: 15 to 52 mg/dL; P <0.001). In obese women, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglyceride levels increased significantly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome compared with control women (mean difference in HDL-C level = 6 mg/dL; 95% CI: 2 to 12 mg/dL; P = 0.002; mean difference in triglyceride level = 34 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1 to 77 mg/dL; P = 0.04). Differences in LDL-C and HDL-C levels, but not triglyceride levels, remained significant after adjusting for alcohol intake, smoking, and exercise. Although age, body mass index, and polycystic ovary syndrome status were significant predictors of lipid levels, these factors accounted for no more than 25% of the variance. CONCLUSIONS: In this large study of non-Hispanic white women, elevations in LDL-C levels were the predominant lipid abnormality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, independent of obesity. The characteristic dyslipidemia of insulin resistance was absent. Indeed, obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome had relatively elevated HDL-C levels, which may confer some protection against cardiovascular disease.     

Association between traditional cholesterol parameters, lipoprotein particle concentration, novel biomarkers and carotid plaques in retired National Football League players

ObjectivesWe assessed whether low-density lipoprotein particle concentration (LDL-P) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP] can identify subclinical atherosclerosis better than traditional cholesterol parameters in retired National Football League (NFL) players.BackgroundIt is not known whether LDL-P and the biomarker hs-CRP can identify subclinical atherosclerosis better than low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) or non-high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) in retired NFL players, given high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in these players.MethodsCarotid artery plaque screening was performed with traditional lipids, LDL-P, and hs-CRP in 996 retired players. Logistic regression analyses comparing highest with the lowest quartile were performed.ResultsCarotid artery plaques were seen in 41%. LDL-C (odds ratio [OR] 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–2.59), non-HDL-C (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.04–2.67), and LDL-P (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.35–3.62) were associated with plaques in adjusted models. Among 187 retired players with metabolic syndrome, LDL-C (OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.53–3.72) was not associated with carotid plaques, whereas LDL-P (OR 3.71, 95% CI 1.16–11.84) and non-HDL-C (OR 2.63, 95% CI 0.91–7.63, p = 0.07; borderline significant) were associated with carotid plaques. hs-CRP (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.71–1.79) was not associated with carotid plaques.ConclusionCarotid artery plaques were common in retired NFL players and were strongly associated with LDL-P, especially among those with metabolic syndrome. hs-CRP was not associated with carotid plaques in this cohort.     

The Risk of Fasting Triglycerides and its Related Indices for Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases in Japanese Community Dwellers: the Suita Study

Aim: A prospective cohort study in a Japanese urban general population was performed to investigate whether triglyceride (TG) and its related indices were associated with the risk for the incidence of ischemic cardiovascular disease (CVD) after the adjustment for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in Asian community dwellers. Methods: A 15.1-year prospective cohort study was performed in 6,684 Japanese community dwellers aged 30–79 years without a history of CVD and whose fasting TG levels were ＜400 mg/dL. After adjusting for covariates, including LDL-C, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the deciles (D) of TG and those of 1-standard deviation (SD) increment of log-transformed TG (1-SD of TG) according to LDL-C level (≥ 140 and ＜140 mg/dL) for ischemic CVD incidence were estimated. The multivariable-adjusted HRs and 95%CIs of the quintiles (Q) of TG, TG/HDL-C, and the cardiometabolic index (CMI) for ischemic CVD were also estimated. Results: In 101,230 person-years, 464 ischemic CVD cases occurred. For D ₁₀ of TG, the HR (95%CI) was 1.56 (1.05–2.32), and for 1-SD of TG, it was 1.30 (1.00–1.70) in participants with LDL-C ＜140 mg/dL and 1.07 (0.77–1.50) in those with LDL-C ≥ 140 mg/dL. For Q ₅ of the CMI, the multivariable-adjusted HR was higher than those of TG and TG/HDL-C. Conclusions: Fasting TG was an independent predictor for ischemic CVD incidence after adjusting for LDL-C in Japanese community dwellers with TG ＜400 mg/dL. Among TG, TG/HDL-C, and the CMI, the CMI could be the most powerful predictor for ischemic CVD.     

Relation of triglyceride levels,fasting and nonfasting,to fatal and nonfatal coronary heart disease

BACKGROUND: It remains unclear whether hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), and whether fasting and nonfasting triglyceride (TG) levels are equally predictive. METHODS: A total of 2809 (of 12 866) men randomized during 1973 through 1975 into the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial with fasting and nonfasting TG levels measured at baseline were followed up for CHD incidence and death. Proportional hazards regression models were used to assess associations of fasting and nonfasting TG levels with CHD. RESULTS: Average fasting and nonfasting TG levels were 187 and 284 mg/dL (2.11 and 3.21 mmol/L), respectively. Prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia (200 mg/dL [2.26 mmol/L] or more) was 31% for fasting and 61% for nonfasting. There were 175 nonfatal or fatal CHD events during 8 years and 328 CHD deaths during 25 years. Compared with TG levels less than 200 mg/dL, risk factor-adjusted hazard ratios for CHD mortality for hypertriglyceridemia were 1.24 (P =.09) for fasting and 1.26 (P =.07) for nonfasting. For nonfatal or fatal CHD, fasting and nonfasting TG levels were similarly predictive with hazard ratios of 1.64 (P =.004) for fasting and 1.46 (P =.03) for nonfasting. These associations for fasting TG levels were assessed to be underestimated by 56% because of regression dilution bias, with attenuation likely greater for nonfasting TG levels. CONCLUSIONS: Greater ease of obtaining nonfasting than fasting measurements, greater prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia with nonfasting than fasting values, and similarly increased risk with each indicate that nonfasting TG levels may be more useful than fasting ones for risk stratification.     

Effect of coconut oil on cardio-metabolic risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies

Background and aimsHigh total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) could be major risk factors for cardiovascular disease burden among high risk populations especially in South Asians. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the effects of coconut oil compared with other oils and fats on cardio-metabolic parameters.MethodsPubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were systematically searched. The main outcomes included are lipid and glycemic parameters. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate individual comparisons of vegetable oils and animal fat with coconut oil. Data were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis.ResultsCoconut oil consumption significantly increased TC by 15.42 mg/dL (95% CI, 8.96–21.88, p < 0.001), LDL-C by 10.14 mg/dL (95% CI, 4.44–15.84, p < 0.001) and high density lipoprorein cholesterol (HDL-C) by 2.61 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.95–4.26, p = 0.002), and significantly decreased glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by 0.39 mg/dL (95% CI, −0.50 to −0.27, p < 0.001) but, it had no effects on triglycerides (TG), (4.25 mg/dL; 95% CI, −0.49-8.99, p = 0.08) when compared with the control group. Sub-group analysis demonstrated that coconut oil significantly increased TC and LDL-C over corn, palm, soybean and safflower oils and not over olive oil. Compared with butter, coconut oil showed a better pattern in cardio-metabolic markers by significantly increasing HDL-C (4.38 mg/dL, 95% CI, 0.40 to 8.36, p = 0.03) and decreasing LDL-C (−14.90 mg/dL, 95% CI, −23.02 to-6.77, p < 0.001).ConclusionsOur results suggest that coconut oil consumption results in significantly higher TC, LDL-C and HDL-C than other oils. Consumption of coconut oil can be one of the risk factors for CVDs in South Asians.     

Comparison of gemfibrozil and lovastatin in patients with high low-density lipoprotein and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

BACKGROUND--The efficacy of gemfibrozil and lovastatin in the treatment of patients who have an elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level and a low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level was compared. METHODS--After at least 6 weeks of a cholestgerol-lowering diet, 17 patients who had a mean baseline LDL-C level above 4.14 mmol/L (160 mg/dL) and an HDL-C level below 1.03 mmol/L (40 mg/dL) received gemfibrozil 600 mg twice daily and lovastatin 20 mg twice daily each for 6 weeks according to a randomized, crossover, double-blind research design. RESULTS--Lovastatin and gemfibrozil reduced LDL-C levels 34% and 9% and raised HDL-C levels 15% and 18%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS--Lovastatin is more effective in lowering LDL-C levels and is as effective as gemfibrozil in increasing HDL-C levels in these patients.     

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/apolipoprotein B ratio may be a useful index that differs in statin-treated patients with and without coronary artery disease: a case control study

Low density lipoproteins (LDLs) are heterogeneous aggregations of molecules of different particle sizes, and small-size LDLs are more potent risk factors for atherosclerosis. We examined the qualitative characteristics of LDLs in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) receiving statin therapy. LDL-particle size was estimated based on the LDL-cholesterol/apolipoprotein B ratio (LDL-C/apoB) in 214 age-adjusted men receiving statin therapy. The LDL-C/apoB ratio was significantly lower in the CAD (+) group (n = 107) than in the CAD (-) group (n = 107) (median, 1.17 versus 1.19, P = 0.0095). LDL-C/apoB was significantly lower in patients with serum TG ≥ 150 mg/dL than in those with serum TG < 150 mg/dL, and in patients with serum HDL-C < 40 mg/dL than in those with serum HDL-C ≥ 40 mg/dL (1.06 versus 1.18, P = 0.012; 1.08 versus 1.22, P = 0.0023). Stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that elevated serum TG was an independent predictor for smaller sizes of LDLs, both in the overall subjects (β : -0.165, P = 0.02) as well as in the subset with serum LDL-C < 100 mg/dL (β : -0.252, P = 0.011). This study demonstrated that not only the absolute serum LDL-C level, but also the qualitative characteristics of LDL may be monitored for secondary prevention of CAD. Such monitoring is particularly important in patients with elevated serum TG levels, which is associated with smaller sizes of LDL-particles.     

Low triglycerides-high high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and risk of ischemic heart disease

BACKGROUND: A high triglyceride (TG)--low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level (TG > or =1.60 mmol/L [> or =142 mg/dL] and HDL-C < or =1.18 mmol/L [< or =46 mg/dL]) is associated with a high risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD), whereas a low TG--high HDL-C level (TG < or =1.09 [< or =97 mg/dL] and HDL-C > or =1.48 mmol/L [> or =57 mg/dL]) is associated with a low risk. Conventional risk factors tend to coexist with high TG--low HDL-C levels. We tested the hypothesis that subjects with conventional risk factors would still have a low risk of IHD if they had low TG--high HDL-C levels. METHODS: Observational cohort study of 2906 men aged 53 to 74 years free of IHD at baseline. RESULTS: During 8 years, 229 subjects developed IHD. Stratified by conventional risk factors-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (< or =4.40 mmol/L or >4.40 mmol/L [< or =170 mg/dL or >170 mg/dL] [median value]), hypertensive status (blood pressure >150/100 mm Hg or taking medication), level of physical activity (>4 h/wk or < or =4 h/wk), and smoking status (nonsmokers vs smokers)-the incidence in men with high TG--low HDL-C levels was 9.8% to 12.2% in the low-risk and 12.2% to 16.4% in the high-risk strata; the corresponding values in men with low TG--high HDL-C concentrations were 4.0% to 5.1% and 3.7% to 5.3%, respectively. Based on an estimate of attributable risk, 35% of IHD might have been prevented if all subjects had had low TG--high HDL-C levels. CONCLUSION: Men with conventional risk factors for IHD have a low risk of IHD if they have low TG--high HDL-C levels.     

Association of serum triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio with carotid artery intima-media thickness,insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in children and adolescents

Background and aimsThe triglyceride (TG)/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio has been reported as a useful marker of atherogenic lipid abnormalities, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. We evaluated in a large sample of children and adolescents the association of TG/HDL-C ratio with early signs of morphological vascular changes and cardiometabolic risk factors including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Methods and resultsThe study population, including 548 children (aged 6–16 years), of whom 157 were normal-weight, 118 overweight, and 273 obese, had anthropometric, laboratory, liver and carotid ultrasonography (carotid artery intima-media thickness-cIMT) data collected. Subjects were stratified into tertiles of TG/HDL-C. There was a progressive increase in body mass index (BMI), BMI-SD score (SDS), waist circumference, blood pressure (BP), liver enzymes, glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and cIMT values across TG/HDL-C tertiles. The odds ratios for central obesity, insulin resistance, high hsCRP, NAFLD, metabolic syndrome, and elevated cIMT increased significantly with the increasing tertile of TG/HDL-C ratio, after adjustment for age, gender, pubertal status, and BMI-SDS. In a stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis, increased cIMT was associated with high TG/HDL-C ratio [OR, 1.81 (95% CI, 1.08–3.04); P < 0.05], elevated BP [5.13 (95% CI, 1.03–15.08); P < 0.05], insulin resistance [2.16 (95% CI, 1.30–3.39); P < 0.01], and NAFLD [2.70 (95% CI, 1.62–4.56); P < 0.01].ConclusionTG/HDL-C ratio may help identify children and adolescents at high risk for structural vascular changes and metabolic derangement.