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The technological evolution and widespread availability of wearables and handheld ECG devices capable of screening for atrial fibrillation (AF), and their promotion directly to consumers, has focused attention of health care professionals and patient organizations on consumer-led AF screening. In this Frontiers review, members of the AF-SCREEN International Collaboration provide a critical appraisal of this rapidly evolving field to increase awareness of the complexities and uncertainties surrounding consumer-led AF screening. Although there are numerous commercially available devices directly marketed to consumers for AF monitoring and identification of unrecognized AF, health care professional–led randomized controlled studies using multiple ECG recordings or continuous ECG monitoring to detect AF have failed to demonstrate a significant reduction in stroke. Although it remains uncertain if consumer-led AF screening reduces stroke, it could increase early diagnosis of AF and facilitate an integrated approach, including appropriate anticoagulation, rate or rhythm management, and risk factor modification to reduce complications. Companies marketing AF screening devices should report the accuracy and performance of their products in high- and low-risk populations and avoid claims about clinical outcomes unless improvement is demonstrated in randomized clinical trials. Generally, the diagnostic yield of AF screening increases with the number, duration, and temporal dispersion of screening sessions, but the prognostic importance may be less than for AF detected by single–time point screening, which is largely permanent, persistent, or high-burden paroxysmal AF. Consumer-initiated ECG recordings suggesting possible AF always require confirmation by a health care professional experienced in ECG reading, whereas suspicion of AF on the basis of photoplethysmography must be confirmed with an ECG. Consumer-led AF screening is unlikely to be cost-effective for stroke prevention in the predominantly young, early adopters of this technology. Studies in older people at higher stroke risk are required to demonstrate both effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. The direct interaction between companies and consumers creates new regulatory gaps in relation to data privacy and the registration of consumer apps and devices. Although several barriers for optimal use of consumer-led screening exist, results of large, ongoing trials, powered to detect clinical outcomes, are required before health care professionals should support widespread adoption of consumer-led AF screening.

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) risk prediction is important for guiding the intensity of therapy in CVD prevention. Whilst current risk prediction algorithms use traditional statistical approaches, machine learning (ML) presents an alternative method that may improve risk prediction accuracy. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether ML algorithms demonstrate greater performance compared with traditional risk scores in CVD risk prognostication.Methods and resultsMEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and SCOPUS Web of Science Core collections were searched for studies comparing ML models to traditional risk scores for CVD risk prediction between the years 2000 and 2021. We included studies that assessed both ML and traditional risk scores in adult (≥18 year old) primary prevention populations. We assessed the risk of bias using the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) tool. Only studies that provided a measure of discrimination [i.e. C-statistics with 95% confidence intervals (CIs)] were included in the meta-analysis. A total of 16 studies were included in the review and meta-analysis (3302 515 individuals). All study designs were retrospective cohort studies. Out of 16 studies, 3 externally validated their models, and 11 reported calibration metrics. A total of 11 studies demonstrated a high risk of bias. The summary C-statistics (95% CI) of the top-performing ML models and traditional risk scores were 0.773 (95% CI: 0.740–0.806) and 0.759 (95% CI: 0.726–0.792), respectively. The difference in C-statistic was 0.0139 (95% CI: 0.0139–0.140), P ConclusionML models outperformed traditional risk scores in the discrimination of CVD risk prognostication. Integration of ML algorithms into electronic healthcare systems in primary care could improve identification of patients at high risk of subsequent CVD events and hence increase opportunities for CVD prevention. It is uncertain whether they can be implemented in clinical settings. Future implementation research is needed to examine how ML models may be utilized for primary prevention.This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020220811).

Background: TEXTMEDS (Text Messages to Improve Medication Adherence and Secondary Prevention After Acute Coronary Syndrome) examined the effects of text message–delivered cardiac education and support on medication adherence after an acute coronary syndrome. Methods: TEXTMEDS was a single-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial of patients after acute coronary syndrome. The control group received usual care (secondary prevention as determined by the treating clinician); the intervention group also received multiple motivational and supportive weekly text messages on medications and healthy lifestyle with the opportunity for 2-way communication (text or telephone). The primary end point of self-reported medication adherence was the percentage of patients who were adherent, defined as >80% adherence to each of up to 5 indicated cardioprotective medications, at both 6 and 12 months. Results: A total of 1424 patients (mean age, 58 years [SD, 11]; 79% male) were randomized from 18 Australian public teaching hospitals. There was no significant difference in the primary end point of self-reported medication adherence between the intervention and control groups (relative risk, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.84–1.03]; P =0.15). There was no difference between intervention and control groups at 12 months in adherence to individual medications (aspirin, 96% vs 96%; β-blocker, 84% vs 84%; angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, 77% vs 80%; statin, 95% vs 95%; second antiplatelet, 84% vs 84% [all P >0.05]), systolic blood pressure (130 vs 129 mm Hg; P =0.26), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (2.0 vs 1.9 mmol/L; P =0.34), smoking ( P =0.59), or exercising regularly (71% vs 68%; P =0.52). There were small differences in lifestyle risk factors in favor of intervention on body mass index 2 (21% vs 18%; P =0.01), eating ≥5 servings per day of vegetables (9% vs 5%; P =0.03), and eating ≥2 servings per day of fruit (44% vs 39%; P =0.01). Conclusions: A text message–based program had no effect on medical adherence but small effects on lifestyle risk factors. Registration: URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=364448 ; Unique identifier: ANZCTR ACTRN12613000793718.

Background In women, preeclampsia has a known association with increased long-term cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, it is unknown whether it is associated with increased postoperative cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in women. We aimed to determine if preeclampsia is an independent risk factor for myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) and postoperative 30-day mortality. Methods This study was a large international multicentre cohort study of a representative sample of 40,004 patients recruited from August 2007 to November 2013. Participants were ≥ 45 years of age and underwent inpatient noncardiac surgery. Within this cohort, our study examined women with a history of pregnancy. Using multivariable models, we explored the association between a history of pregnancy affected by preeclampsia and our primary outcome of MINS and secondary outcome of postoperative mortality within 30 days. MINS was defined as prognostically relevant myocardial injury due to ischemia that occurred during or within 30 days after noncardiac surgery. Results Analyses were restricted to the 13,902 participants with a history of pregnancy. Among these women, 976 (7.0%) had a history of preeclampsia. A history of preeclampsia was associated with an increased risk of MINS, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.26 (95% confidence interval 1.03-1.53; P = 0.02). Preeclampsia was not significantly associated with 30-day mortality. Conclusions Preeclampsia is a risk factor for MINS and should be considered in the preoperative cardiovascular risk assessment of women.

Onboarding Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors remains a major burden in terms of disease, disability, and death in the Australian population and mental health is considered as an important risk factor affecting cardiovascular disease. A multidisciplinary collaborative approach in primary care is required to ensure an optimal outcome for managing cardiovascular patients with mental health issues. Medicare introduced numerous primary care health services and medications that are subsidised by the Australian government in order to provide a more structured approach to reduce and manage CVD. However, the utilisation of these services nor gender comparison for CVD management in primary care has been explored. Therefore, the aim is to compare the provision of subsidised chronic disease management plans (CDMPs), mental health care and prescription of guideline-indicated medications to men and women with CVD in primary care practices for secondary prevention.Methods De-identified data for all active patients with CVD were extracted from 50 Australian primary care practices. Outcomes included the frequency of receipt of CDMPs, mental health care and prescription of evidence-based medications. Analyses adjusted for demography and clinical characteristics, stratified by gender, were performed using logistic regression and accounted for clustering effects by practices.Results Data for 14,601 patients with CVD (39.4% women) were collected. The odds of receiving the CDMPs was significantly greater amongst women than men (preparation of general practice management plan [GPMP]: (46% vs 43%; adjusted OR [95% CI]: 1.22 [1.12, 1.34]). Women were more likely to have diagnosed with mental health issues (32% vs 20%, p,0.0001), however, the adjusted odds of men and women receiving any government-subsidised mental health care were similar. Women were less often prescribed blood pressure, lipid-lowering and antiplatelet medications. After adjustment, only an antiplatelet medication or agent was less likely to be prescribed to women than men (44% vs 51%; adjusted OR [95% CI]: 0.84 [0.76, 0.94]).Conclusion Women were more likely to receive CDMPs but less likely to receive antiplatelet medications than men, no gender difference was observed in the receipt of mental health care. However, the receipt of the CDMPs and the mental health treatment consultations were suboptimal and better use of these existing services could improve ongoing CVD management. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of adult mortality globally. Targeting known modifiable risk factors has had substantial benefit, but there remains a need for new approaches. Improvements in invasive and noninvasive imaging techniques have enabled an increasing recognition of distinct quantitative phenotypes of coronary atherosclerosis that are prognostically relevant. There are marked differences in plaque phenotype, from the high-risk, lipid-rich, thin-capped atheroma to the low-risk, quiescent, eccentric, nonobstructive calcified plaque. Such distinct phenotypes reflect different pathophysiologic pathways and are associated with different risks for acute ischemic events. Noninvasive coronary imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and coronary magnetic resonance imaging, have major potential to accelerate cardiovascular drug development, which has been affected by the high costs and protracted timelines of cardiovascular outcome trials. This may be achieved through enrichment of high-risk phenotypes with higher event rates or as primary end points of drug efficacy, at least in phase 2 trials, in a manner historically performed through intravascular coronary imaging studies. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the current technology available and its application in clinical trials, including implications for sample size requirements, as well as potential limitations. In its effort to accelerate drug development, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved surrogate end points for 120 conditions, but not for CAD. There are robust data showing the beneficial effects of drugs, including statins, on CAD progression and plaque stabilization in a manner that correlates with established clinical end points of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. This, together with a clear mechanistic rationale for using imaging as a surrogate CAD end point, makes it timely for CAD imaging end points to be considered. We discuss the importance of global consensus on these imaging end points and protocols and partnership with regulatory bodies to build a more informed, sustainable staged pathway for novel therapies.

Background: Ventricular tachycardia (VT) storm is associated with significantly increased morbidity, mortality, and exponential healthcare utilization. Although catheter ablation (CA) may be curative, there are limited data directly comparing outcomes of early CA with initial medical therapy. Methods: We compared outcomes of patients presenting with VT storm treated with initial CA versus those treated with initial medical therapy during their first storm presentation in an observational study. Retrospective data from the host institution from January 2014 to April 2020 of 129 patients with their first VT storm presentation were analyzed (58 underwent initial CA, 71 underwent treatment with initial medical therapy). Outcomes were compared in follow-up. Results: Median time to initial CA was 6 days. Over a median follow-up of 702 days, patients who underwent initial CA compared with those treated with initial medical therapy had significantly less: (i) VA recurrence (43% versus 92%; P =0.002); (ii) VT storm recurrence (28% versus 73%; P P =0.002); (iv) iatrogenic complications (at 12 months: 17% versus 45%; P P =0.01); (vi) total number of hospitalizations (median 1 versus 4; P P Conclusion: In an observational setting in which patients presenting with storm, early CA appears superior to initial medical therapy in terms of VT recurrence, storm recurrence, iatrogenic complications, cardiovascular hospitalizations, and cumulative days in hospital in follow-up.

Background The Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI) is widely used to estimate risk of cardiac complications after noncardiac surgery; its estimates do not capture myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS). We evaluated the incidence of cardiac complications including MINS across RCRI risk classes and the RCRI's ability to discriminate, before surgery, between patients who will experience these complications and those who will not. Methods This was a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study of 35,815 patients ≥ 45 years old who had elective inpatient noncardiac surgery from 2007 to 2013 at 28 centres in 14 countries. The primary outcome was a composite of MINS, myocardial infarction, nonfatal cardiac arrest, or cardiac death within 30 days after surgery. The secondary outcome was this composite without MINS. Results The primary outcome occurred in 4725 patients (13.2%); its incidences across RCRI classes I (no risk factors), II (1 risk factor), III (2 risk factors), and IV (≥ 3 risk factors) were, respectively, 8.2%, 15.4%, 26.6%, and 40.2% (C-statistic for discrimination 0.65 [95% confidence interval 0.62-0.68]). The secondary outcome occurred in 1174 patients (3.3%) with incidences of 1.6%, 4.0%, 7.9%, and 12.9%, respectively (C-statistic 0.69 [0.65-0.72]). Thirty-five percent of primary outcome events and 26.9% of secondary outcome events occurred in patients with no RCRI risk factors. Conclusion The RCRI alone is not sufficient to guide postoperative cardiac monitoring because 1 in 12 patients ≥ 45 years of age without any RCRI risk factors have a cardiac complication after major noncardiac surgery, and most of them would be missed without systematic troponin testing.

ObjectiveWaiting time is inevitable during cardiovascular (CV) care. This study examines whether waiting room-based CV education could complement CV care.MethodsA 2:1 randomised clinical trial of patients in waiting rooms of hospital cardiology clinics. Intervention participants received a series of tablet-delivered CV educational videos and were randomised 1:1 to receive another video on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or no extra video. Control received usual care. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants reporting high motivation to improve CV risk-modifying behaviours (physical activity, diet and blood pressure monitoring) post-clinic. Secondary outcomes: clinic satisfaction, CV lifestyle risk factors (RFs) and confidence to perform CPR. Assessors were blinded to treatment allocation.ResultsAmong 514 screened, 330 were randomised (n=220 intervention, n=110 control) between December 2018 and March 2020, mean age 53.8 (SD 15.2), 55.2% male. Post-clinic, more intervention participants reported high motivation to improve CV risk-modifying behaviours: 29.6% (64/216) versus 18.7% (20/107), relative risk (RR) 1.63 (95% CI 1.04 to 2.55). Intervention participants reported higher clinic satisfaction RR: 2.19 (95% CI 1.45 to 3.33). Participants that received the CPR video (n=110) reported greater confidence to perform CPR, RR 1.61 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.16). Overall, the proportion of participants reporting optimal CV RFs increased between baseline and 30-day follow-up (16.1% vs 24.8%, OR=2.44 (95% CI 1.38 to 4.49)), but there was no significant between-group difference at 30 days.ConclusionCV education delivery in the waiting room is a scalable concept and may be beneficial to CV care. Larger studies could explore its impact on clinical outcomes.Trial registration numberANZCTR12618001725257.

Several definitions of night-time BP exist for the calculation of nocturnal blood pressure (BP) based on 24-h BP measurements. How much these methods differ regarding the resulting nocturnal blood pressure values, under which circumstances these differences become clinically meaningful, and under which circumstances diary-adjusted measurements should be used preferentially remains uncertain.Data of 512 24-h BP recordings were analysed regarding differences in nocturnal BP based on three alternative definitions of night-time: 2300-0700 h, 0100-0500 h, and diary-adjusted measures.Mean systolic nocturnal BP between 2300-0700 h was 2.5 mmHg higher than between 0100 and 0500 h and 1.6 mmHg higher than diary adjusted estimates. Up to 38.3% of individuals showed BP differences of more than 5 mmHg when comparing temporal definitions of night-time, resulting in significant proportions of individuals being re-classified as hypertensive. When diary-derived sleeping patterns differed by less than 2 h from the 2300 to 0700 h fixed time definition, mean BP discrepancies remained below 3 mmHg. Absolute time discrepancies between diary and 2300-0700 h fixed time definition of 2-4, 4-8 or at least 8 h led to SBP/DBP differences of 4.1/3.1, 6.8/6.1, and 14.5/9.1mmHg, respectively.Average differences of nocturnal BP between varying definitions in study/cohort data are small and would be of limited relevance in many settings. However, substantial differences can be observed in individual cases, which may affect clinical decision-making in specific patients. In patients whose sleeping patterns differs by more than 2 h from defined fixed night-times, diaries should be used for adjustment.

Background Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) include pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillators, and resynchronization therapy. This study aimed to assess CIED implantation and outcomes by sex and indication. Methods and Results This was a retrospective cohort study of adults with cardiovascular hospitalizations in New South Wales, Australia (2008 to 2018). CIED implantation in patients with arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, and syncope were examined. Subcategories (complete heart block, atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation/cardiac arrest, sick sinus syndrome, and ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy) were investigated. Primary outcome was implantation of CIEDs in men versus women adjusted for age and comorbidities. Secondary outcomes were trends over time, time to implant, length of stay, emergency status, and 30‐day survival. Of 1 291 258 patients with cardiovascular admissions, 287 563 had arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or syncope and 29 080 (2.3%) received a CIED (22 472 pacemakers, 6808 defibrillators, 3207 resynchronization therapy). Women with arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or syncope were less likely to have pacemakers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.78 [95% CI, 0.76–0.80]), defibrillators (aOR, 0.4, [95% CI, 0.40–0.45]) and resynchronization therapy (aOR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.61–0.71]). Differences persisted across subcategories, including fewer pacemakers in complete heart block (aOR, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.80–0.98]) and syncope (aOR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.63–0.79]); fewer defibrillators in ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation/cardiac arrest (aOR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.61–0.77]); and less resynchronization therapy in cardiomyopathy (aOR, 0.62 [95% CI, 0.51–0.75]). Men and women receiving devices had higher 30‐day survival compared with those who did not receive a device, and 30‐day survival was similar between men and women receiving devices. Conclusions Lower CIED implantation was seen in women versus men, across nearly all indications, including complete heart block and ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation/cardiac arrest. The underuse of cardiac devices among women may arguably reflect a sex bias and requires further research.

BackgroundDietary modification is a cornerstone of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. A Mediterranean diet has been associated with a lower risk of CVD but no systematic reviews have evaluated this relationship specifically in women.ObjectiveTo determine the association between higher versus lower adherence to a Mediterranean diet and incident CVD and total mortality in women.MethodsA systematic search of Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science (2003–21) was performed. Randomised controlled trials and prospective cohort studies with participants without previous CVD were included. Studies were eligible if they reported a Mediterranean diet score and comprised either all female participants or stratified outcomes by sex. The primary outcome was CVD and/or total mortality. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsSixteen prospective cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis (n=7 22 495 female participants). In women, higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower CVD incidence (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.81; I2=39%, p test for heterogeneity=0.07), total mortality (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.80; I2=21%, p test for heterogeneity=0.28), and coronary heart disease (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.87; I2=21%, p test for heterogeneity=0.28). Stroke incidence was lower in women with higher Mediterranean diet adherence (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.01; I2=0%, p test for heterogeneity=0.89), but this result was not statistically significant.ConclusionThis study supports a beneficial effect of the Mediterranean diet on primary prevention of CVD and death in women, and is an important step in enabling sex specific guidelines.

ObjectiveTo determine the comparative effectiveness of postdischarge use of varenicline versus prescription nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) patches for the prevention of recurrent cardiovascular events and mortality and whether this association differs by sex.MethodsOur cohort study used routinely collected hospital, pharmaceutical dispensing and mortality data for residents of New South Wales, Australia. We included patients hospitalised for a major cardiovascular event or procedure 2011–2017, who were dispensed varenicline or prescription NRT patches within 90day postdischarge. Exposure was defined using an approach analogous to intention to treat. Using inverse probability of treatment weighting with propensity scores to account for confounding, we estimated adjusted HRs for major cardiovascular events (MACEs), overall and by sex. We fitted an additional model with a sex–treatment interaction term to determine if treatment effects differed between males and females.ResultsOur cohort of 844 varenicline users (72% male, 75% ConclusionWe found no difference between varenicline and prescription NRT patches in the risk of recurrent MACE. These results should be considered when determining the most appropriate choice of smoking cessation pharmacotherapy.

Background Previous studies have shown that women with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are less likely to receive in-hospital care such as revascularisation procedures and secondary prevention medications. Therefore, the aim was to determine if the rate of secondary preventive care and outcomes also differ by sex in patients with ACS at 6 and 12 months after discharge. Methods Of ACS patients recruited from 43 hospitals between 2009 to 2018, 9,283 were discharged alive and followed up at 6 months as part of the Cooperative National Registry of Acute Coronary Care, Guideline Adherence and Clinical Events (CONCORDANCE) registry. Multivariable logistic regression models within the framework of generalised estimating equations were used to compare the rate of medication use, smoking, cardiac rehabilitation participation, major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE: myocardial infarction, heart failure or stroke) and all-cause death at 6 and 12 months after discharge between female and male patients. Results Of 9,283 ACS patients, 2,676 (29%) were women. At 6-month post discharge, women were more likely to have comorbidities than men. After adjusting for clinical characteristics, women had lower odds of attending cardiac rehabilitation than men (OR [95% CI]: 0.87 [0.78, 0.98]) and no sex difference in the odds of using ≥75% of the indicated medications or smoking. Women had higher odds of having a MACE compared to men (1.35 [1.03, 1.77]) but there was no difference for all-cause death between women and men. Moreover, at 12 months after discharge, women were less likely to be on ≥75% of the indicated medications (0.84 [0.75, 0.95]) but no difference was found in the odds of smoking, MACE and all-cause death. Conclusion Our findings from a large contemporary Australian registry dataset suggest that women attend cardiac rehabilitation programs less often and are more likely to have a MACE at 6 months of surviving ACS. At 12 months post discharge, women were less likely to use the indicated secondary prevention medications. Development of effective secondary prevention methods tailored to women are needed.

Over half of patients with elevated blood pressure require multi-drug treatment to achieve blood pressure control. However, multi-drug treatment may lead to lower adherence and more adverse drug effects compared with monotherapy.The Quadruple Ultra-low-dose Treatment for Hypertension (QUARTET) USA trial was designed to evaluate whether initiating treatment with ultra-low-dose quadruple-combination therapy will lower office blood pressure more effectively, and with fewer side effects, compared with initiating standard dose monotherapy in treatment naive patients with SBP180 and DBP110 mm Hg and patients on monotherapy with SBP160 and DBP100 mm Hg.QUARTET USA was a prospective, randomized, double-blind trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03640312) conducted in federally qualified health centers in a large city in the US. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to either ultra-low-dose quadruple combination therapy or standard dose monotherapy. The primary outcome was mean change from baseline in office systolic blood pressure at 12-weeks, adjusted for baseline values. Secondary outcomes included measures of blood pressure change and variability, medication adherence, and health related quality of life. Safety outcomes included occurrence of serious adverse events, relevant adverse drug effects, and electrolyte abnormalities. A process evaluation aimed to understand provider experiences of implementation and participant experiences around side effects, adherence, and trust with clinical care.QUARTET USA was designed to evaluate whether a novel approach to blood pressure control would lower office blood pressure more effectively, and with fewer side effects, compared with standard dose monotherapy. QUARTET USA was conducted within a network of federally qualified healthcare centers with the aim of generating information on the safety and efficacy of ultra-low-dose quadruple-combination therapy in diverse groups that experience a high burden of hypertension.

Aims We determined the prevalence of prescription smoking cessation pharmacotherapy (SCP) use after hospitalization for major cardiovascular disease (MCD) among people who smoke and whether this varies by sex. Methods and results We conducted a population-based cohort study including all people hospitalized in New South Wales, Australia, between July 2013 and December 2018 (2017 for private hospitals) with an MCD diagnosis. For patients who also had a diagnosis of current tobacco use, we used linked pharmaceutical dispensing records to identify prescription SCP dispensings within 90 days post-discharge. We determined the proportion who were dispensed an SCP within 90 days, overall and by type of SCP. We used logistic regression to estimate the odds of females being dispensed an SCP relative to males. Of the 150 758 patients hospitalized for an MCD, 20 162 (13.4%) had a current tobacco use diagnosis, 31% of whom were female. Of these, 11.3% (12.4% of females, 10.9% of males) received prescription SCP within 90 days post-discharge; 3.0% were dispensed varenicline, and 8.3% were dispensed nicotine replacement therapy patches. Females were more likely than males to be dispensed a prescription SCP [odds ratio (OR) 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.27)]; however, this was not maintained after adjusting for potential confounders (adjusted OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.94–1.15). Conclusion Very few females and males who smoke use prescription SCPs after hospitalization for an MCD. The use of varenicline, the SCP with the highest efficacy, was particularly low. This represents a missed opportunity to increase smoking cessation in this high-risk population, thereby reducing their risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.

Cardiac arrhythmias are associated with significant morbidity, mortality and economic burden on the health care system. Detection and surveillance of cardiac arrhythmias using medical grade non-invasive methods (electrocardiogram, Holter monitoring) is the accepted standard of care. Whilst their accuracy is excellent, significant limitations remain in terms of accessibility, ease of use, cost, and a suboptimal diagnostic yield (up to ∼50%) which is critically dependent on the duration of monitoring. Contemporary wearable and handheld devices that utilise photoplethysmography and the electrocardiogram present a novel opportunity for remote screening and diagnosis of arrhythmias. They have significant advantages in terms of accessibility and availability with the potential of enhancing the diagnostic yield of episodic arrhythmias. However, there is limited data on the accuracy and diagnostic utility of these devices and their role in therapeutic decision making in clinical practice remains unclear. Evidence is mounting that they may be useful in screening for atrial fibrillation, and anecdotally, for the diagnosis of other brady and tachyarrhythmias. Recently, there has been an explosion of patient uptake of such devices for self-monitoring of arrhythmias. Frequently, the clinician is presented such information for review and comment, which may influence clinical decisions about treatment. Further studies are needed before incorporation of such technologies in routine clinical practice, given the lack of systematic data on their accuracy and utility. Moreover, challenges with regulation of quality standards and privacy remain. This state-of-the-art review summarises the role of novel ambulatory, commercially available, heart rhythm monitors in the diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmias and their expanding role in the diagnostic and therapeutic paradigm in cardiology.

Randomised trials have shown that catheter ablation (CA) is superior to medical therapy for ventricular tachycardia (VT) largely in patients with ischaemic heart disease. Whether this translates to patients with all forms and stages of structural heart disease (SHD-e.g., non-ischaemic heart disease) is unclear. This trial will help clarify whether catheter ablation offers superior outcomes compared to medical therapy for VT in all patients with SHD.To determine in patients with SHD and spontaneous or inducible VT, if catheter ablation is more efficacious than medical therapy in control of VT during follow-up.Randomised controlled trial including 162 patients, with an allocation ratio of 1:1, stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and geographical region of site, with a median follow-up of 18-months and a minimum follow-up of 1 year.Multicentre study performed in centres across Australia.Structural heart disease patients with sustained VT or inducible VT (n=162).Early treatment, within 30 days of randomisation, with catheter ablation (intervention) or initial treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs only (control).Primary endpoint will be a composite of recurrent VT, VT storm (≥3 VT episodes in 24 hrs or incessant VT), or death. Secondary outcomes will include each of the individual primary endpoints, VT burden (number of VT episodes in the 6 months preceding intervention compared to the 6 months after intervention), cardiovascular hospitalisation, mortality (including all-cause mortality, cardiac death, and non-cardiac death) and LVEF (assessed by transthoracic echocardiography from baseline to 6-, 12-, 24- and 36-months' post intervention).The Catheter Ablation versus Anti-arrhythmic Drugs for Ventricular Tachycardia (CAAD-VT) trial will help determine whether catheter ablation is superior to antiarrhythmic drug therapy alone, in patients with SHD-related VT.Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) TRIAL REGISTRATION ID: ACTRN12620000045910 TRIAL REGISTRATION URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377617isReview=true.

BackgroundHypertension is the most common modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases in South Asia. Machine learning (ML) models have been shown to outperform clinical risk predictions compared to statistical methods, but studies using ML to predict hypertension at the population level are lacking. This study used ML approaches in a dataset of three South Asian countries to predict hypertension and its associated factors and compared the model's performances.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study using ML analyses to detect hypertension using population-based surveys. We created a single dataset by harmonizing individual-level data from the most recent nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey in Bangladesh, Nepal, and India. The variables included blood pressure (BP), sociodemographic and economic factors, height, weight, hemoglobin, and random blood glucose. Hypertension was defined based on JNC-7 criteria. We applied six common ML-based classifiers: decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), gradient boosting machine (GBM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), logistic regression (LR), and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to predict hypertension and its risk factors.ResultsOf the 8,18,603 participants, 82,748 (10.11%) had hypertension. ML models showed that significant factors for hypertension were age and BMI. Ever measured BP, education, taking medicine to lower BP, and doctor's perception of high BP was also significant but comparatively lower than age and BMI. XGBoost, GBM, LR, and LDA showed the highest accuracy score of 90%, RF and DT achieved 89 and 83%, respectively, to predict hypertension. DT achieved the precision value of 91%, and the rest performed with 90%. XGBoost, GBM, LR, and LDA achieved a recall value of 100%, RF scored 99%, and DT scored 90%. In F1-score, XGBoost, GBM, LR, and LDA scored 95%, while RF scored 94%, and DT scored 90%. All the algorithms performed with good and small log loss values ConclusionML models performed well to predict hypertension and its associated factors in South Asians. When employed on an open-source platform, these models are scalable to millions of people and might help individuals self-screen for hypertension at an early stage. Future studies incorporating biochemical markers are needed to improve the ML algorithms and evaluate them in real life.

Background A number of Australian hospitals are piloting outpatient rapid access chest pain clinics (RACC) as a new clinical pathway. These clinics aim to provide an alternative to inpatient care for timely access to specialist cardiology assessment whilst improving quality of care and experience. An understanding of overall patient satisfaction can be considered a marker of overall clinical success, contributes to cost-effectiveness, and is needed to develop improvement strategies. We aimed to evaluate uncertainty, satisfaction and experience among patients treated in a RACC. Methods All consecutive patients presenting with troponin negative intermediate risk chest pain treated in a new RACC in a public quaternary teaching hospital over a 12-month period, were invited to participate in two core components: A paper-based questionnaire, and a one-month follow-up telephone structured interview. Patient satisfaction and uncertainty were assessed by the short form of the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale (MUIS) and Picker Dimensions of care. Results There was a 51.2% response rate (190/371). Patients ranged in age from 20 to 89 years (56.4±13.6 years) and 47% were female. Findings illustrated a global high level of satisfaction in all areas: care, comfort, communication and engagement, with low levels of uncertainty in illness experienced by patients. Conclusion There were high levels of satisfaction and minimal uncertainty for patients related to their management and care in the RACC during the study period. These results have formed part of the formal cost-effectiveness assessment of the RACC used to support its transition from a pilot implementation to standard of care at the study centre.

Background This population-based cross-stional and panel study investigated disparities in the management of coronary heart disease (CHD) by level of socioeconomic status. Methods CHD patients (aged ≥18 years), treated in 438 general practices in Australia, with ≥3 recent encounters with their general practitioners, with last encounter being during 2016–2018, were included. Secondary prevention prescriptions and number of treatment targets achieved were each modelled using a Poisson regression adjusting for demographics, socioeconomic indicators, remoteness of patient’s residence, comorbidities, lifetime follow-up, number of patient–general practitioner encounters and cluster effect within the general practices. The latter model was constructed using the Generalised Estimating Equations approach. Sensitivity analysis was run by comorbidity. Results Of 137,408 patients (47% women), approximately 48% were prescribed ≥3 secondary prevention medications. However, only 44% were screened for CHD-associated risk factors. Of the latter, 45% achieved ≥5 treatment targets. Compared with patients from the highest socioeconomic status fifth, those from the lowest socioeconomic status fifth were 8% more likely to be prescribed more medications for secondary prevention (incidence rate ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.08 (1.04–1.12)) but 4% less likely to achieve treatment targets (incidence rate ratio: 0.96 (0.95–0.98)). These disparities were also observed when stratified by comorbidities. Conclusion Despite being more likely to be prescribed medications for secondary prevention, those who are most socioeconomically disadvantaged are less likely to achieve treatment targets. It remains to be determined whether barriers such as low adherence to treatment, failure to fill prescriptions, low income, low level of education or other barriers may explain these findings.

Background A significant proportion of patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (MI) have no standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors (SMuRFs) and have unexpected worse 30‐day outcomes compared with those with SMuRFs. The aim of this article is to examine outcomes of patients with non–ST‐segment–elevation MI in the absence of SMuRFs. Methods and Results Presenting features, management, and outcomes of patients with non–ST‐segment–elevation MI without SmuRFs (hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, smoking) were compared with those with SmuRFs in the Swedish MI registry SWEDEHEART (Swedish Web‐System for Enhancement and Development of Evidence‐Based Care in Heart Disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies; 2005–2018). Cox proportional hazard models were used. Out of 99 718 patients with non–ST‐segment–elevation MI, 11 131 (11.2%) had no SMuRFs. Patients without SMuRFs had higher all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality at 30 days (hazard ratio [HR], 1.20 [95% CI, 1.10–1.30], P P for all Conclusions One in 10 patients presenting with non–ST‐segment–elevation MI present without traditional risk factors. The excess 30‐day mortality rate in this group emphasizes the need for both improved population‐based strategies for prevention of MI, as well as the need for equitable evidence‐based treatment at the time of an MI.

ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the incidence of pregnancy-related cardiometabolic conditions and severe cardiovascular outcomes, and their relationship in US Medicaid-funded women.MethodsMedicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance programme for low-income families in the USA. We report the incidence of pregnancy-related cardiometabolic conditions (hypertensive disorders and diabetes in, or complicated by, pregnancy) and severe cardiovascular outcomes (myocardial infarction, stroke, acute heart failure, cardiomyopathy, cardiac arrest, ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, aortic dissection/aneurysm and peripheral vascular disease) among Medicaid-funded women with a birth (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) diagnosis code O80 or O82) over the period January 2015–June 2019, from the states of Georgia, Ohio and Indiana. In this cross-sectional cohort, we examined the relationship between pregnancy-related cardiometabolic conditions and severe cardiovascular outcomes from pregnancy through to 60 days after birth using multivariable models.ResultsAmong 74 510 women, mean age 26.4 years (SD 5.5), the incidence per 1000 births of pregnancy-related cardiometabolic conditions was 224.3 (95% CI 221.3 to 227.3). The incidence per 1000 births of severe cardiovascular conditions was 10.8 (95% CI 10.1 to 11.6). Women with pregnancy-related cardiometabolic conditions were at greater risk of having a severe cardiovascular condition with an age-adjusted OR of 3.1 (95% CI 2.7 to 3.5).ConclusionThis US cohort of Medicaid-funded women have a high incidence of severe cardiovascular conditions during pregnancy. Cardiometabolic conditions of pregnancy conferred threefold higher odds of severe cardiovascular outcomes.

Introduction: Cardiac complications of COVID-19 include acute cardiac injury, myopericarditis, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias. This study aimed to describe the incidence of cardiac complications in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 in Australia. Methods: AUS-COVID is a multicentre observational cohort study across 21 Australian hospitals including all index hospitalisations with laboratory-proven COVID-19 in patients aged 18 years or older. All consecutive patients entered in the AUS-COVID Registry by 28 th January 2021 were included in the present study. Results: Six hundred and forty-four hospitalised patients (62.5 ± 20.1 years old, 51.1% male) with COVID-19 were enrolled in the study. Overall in-hospital mortality was 14.3%. Twenty (3.6%) patients developed new atrial fibrillation or flutter during admission and 9 (1.6%) patients were diagnosed with new heart failure or cardiomyopathy. Three (0.5%) patients developed high grade atrioventricular (AV) block. Two (0.3%) patients were clinically diagnosed with pericarditis or myopericarditis. Among the 295 (45.8%) patients with at least one troponin measurement, 99 (33.6%) had a peak troponin above the upper limit of normal (ULN). In-hospital mortality was higher in patients with raised troponin (32.3% vs 6.1%, p Conclusions: Among patients with COVID-19 requiring hospitalisation in Australia, troponin elevation was common but clinical cardiac sequelae were uncommon. The incidence of atrial arrhythmias and troponin elevation was greatest in patients 65 years and older. Trial registration: AUS-COVID. ACTRN12620000486921. http://www.anzctr.org.au/

Introduction: To assess whether hypertension is an independent risk factor for mortality amongst patients hospitalised with COVID-19 and to evaluate the impact of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) on mortality in patients with a background of hypertension. Methods: This observational cohort study included all consecutive index hospitalisations with laboratory proven COVID-19 aged 18 years or older across 21 Australian hospitals entered in the AUS-COVID Registry by 22nd January 2021. Patients were excluded if their past medical or medication history was not available or if they were transferred to another hospital in which case mortality outcomes were not available. Registry data were analysed for in-hospital mortality in patients with comorbidities including hypertension, and baseline treatment with ACE inhibitors or ARBs. Results: 546 consecutive patients (62.9±19.8 years old, 51.8% male) hospitalised with COVID-19 were enrolled. In the multivariable model, significant predictors of mortality were age (aOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.07-1.12, p Conclusions: In patients hospitalised with COVID-19, pre-existing hypertension was the most prevalent comorbidity but was not independently associated with mortality. Similarly, the baseline use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs had no independent association with in-hospital mortality.

Background & aim: Bystander response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) may relate to area-level factors, including socioeconomic status (SES). We aimed to examine whether OHCA among individuals in more disadvantaged areas are less likely to receive bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) compared to those in more advantaged areas. Methods: We analysed data on OHCAs in New South Wales, Australia collected prospectively through a statewide, population-based register. We excluded non-medical arrests; arrests witnessed by a paramedic; occurring in a medical centre, nursing home, police station; or airport, and among individuals with a Do-Not-Resuscitate order. Area-level SES for each arrest was defined using the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Index of Relative Socioeconomic Disadvantage and its relationship to likelihood of receiving bystander CPR was examined using hierarchical logistic regression models. Results: Overall, 39% (6622/16,914) of arrests received bystander CPR (71% of bystander-witnessed). The OHCA burden in disadvantaged areas was higher (age-standardised incidence 76–87/100,000/year in more disadvantaged quintiles 1–4 versus 52 per 100,000/year in most advantaged quintile 5). Bystander CPR rates were lower (38%) in the most disadvantaged quintile and highest (42%) in the most advantaged SES quintile. In adjusted models, younger age, being bystander-witnessed, arresting in a public location, and urban location were all associated with greater likelihood of receiving bystander CPR; however, the association between area-level SES and bystander CPR rate was not significant. Conclusions: There are lower rates of bystander CPR in less advantaged areas, however after accounting for patient and location characteristics, area-level SES was not associated with bystander CPR. Concerted efforts to engage with communities to improve bystander CPR in novel ways could improve OHCA outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: Describe the incidence of cardiac complications in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 in Australia. DESIGN: Observational cohort study. SETTING: Twenty-one (21) Australian hospitals. PARTICIPANTS: Consecutive patients aged ≥18 years admitted to hospital with laboratory confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Incidence of cardiac complications. RESULTS: Six-hundred-and-forty-four (644) hospitalised patients (62.5±20.1 yo, 51.1% male) with COVID-19 were enrolled in the study. Overall in-hospital mortality was 14.3%. Twenty (20) (3.6%) patients developed new atrial fibrillation or flutter during admission and 9 (1.6%) patients were diagnosed with new heart failure or cardiomyopathy. Three (3) (0.5%) patients developed high grade atrioventricular (AV) block. Two (2) (0.3%) patients were clinically diagnosed with pericarditis or myopericarditis. Among the 295 (45.8%) patients with at least one troponin measurement, 99 (33.6%) had a peak troponin above the upper limit of normal (ULN). In-hospital mortality was higher in patients with raised troponin (32.3% vs 6.1%, p

The unique characteristics of patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) in the Asia-Pacific region, heterogeneous approaches because of differences in accesses and resources and low number of patients from the Asia-Pacific region in pivotal studies, mean that international guidelines cannot be routinely applied to these populations. The Asian Pacific Society of Cardiology developed these consensus recommendations to summarise current evidence on the management of CCS and provide recommendations to assist clinicians treat patients from the region. The consensus recommendations were developed by an expert consensus panel who reviewed and appraised the available literature, with focus on data from patients in Asia-Pacific. Consensus statements were developed then put to an online vote. The resulting recommendations provide guidance on the assessment and management of bleeding and ischaemic risks in Asian CCS patients. Furthermore, the selection of long-term antithrombotic therapy is discussed, including the role of single antiplatelet therapy, dual antiplatelet therapy and dual pathway inhibition therapy.

AIMS: Major technological and procedural advancements have reinvigorated catheter ablation as adjunctive therapy for drug-refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT). We examined temporal trends in VT ablations as compared to other interventional cardiovascular procedures namely, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in Australia. METHODS AND RESULTS: A retrospective review of procedural numbers for VT ablations, AF ablations, and PCI was performed from 2008/09-2016/17 the Australian Institute of Health, Welfare and Aging (AIHW), and Medicare Australia (MA) databases. Linear regression models were fitted to compare the trends in population-adjusted procedural numbers over the 10-year period. Data from the AIHW and MA sources respectively showed that (a) PCI had a 1.3% (AIHW data P = .15) and 1.8% (MA data P

Polypills can contain multiple pharmaceutical agents targeting the cardiovascular system. The use of polypills in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has received broad support; however, the use of polypills in the primary prevention of CVD is more controversial. This controversy stems from an inherent resistance to the medicalization of primary prevention, and the lower CVD event rate in this population means that smaller absolute benefits are derived. Indeed, drug-related adverse effects, such as from aspirin, might even outweigh the benefits. The role of fixed-dose combination (FDC) therapy for blood pressure (BP) lowering in combatting the widespread undertreatment of high BP - the leading modifiable risk factor contributing to the global burden of CVD - has gained momentum. Increasing evidence suggests that FDC pills containing multiple low doses of BP-lowering drugs produce more effective BP lowering than the use of fewer separate BP-lowering drugs at higher doses, without an increase in adverse effects. Trials of FDC pills comprising three half-dose or four quarter-dose BP-lowering drugs have shown substantial efficacy. In this Review, we summarize the current evidence on low-dose BP-lowering FDC pills and the justification for this approach in the context of polypills in the primary prevention of CVD.

Background Primary prevention guidelines emphasize the importance of lifestyle modification, but many at high-risk have suboptimal cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) control. Text message support may improve control, but the evidence is sparse. Our objective was to determine the impact of text messages on multiple CVRFs in a moderate-high risk primary prevention cohort. Methods This study was a single-blind randomized clinical trial comparing semi-personalized text message-based support to standard care. A random sample of adults with 10-year absolute cardiovascular risk score ≥10% and without coronary heart disease, referred from February 2019 to January 2020, were recruited from an outpatient cardiology clinic in a large tertiary hospital in Sydney, Australia. Patients were randomized 1:1 to intervention or control. Intervention participants received 4 texts per week over 6 months, and standard care, with content covering: diet, physical activity, smoking, general cardiovascular health, and medication adherence. Controls received standard care only. Content was semipersonalized (smoking status, vegetarian or not-vegetarian, physical ability, taking medications or not) and delivered randomly using automated software. The primary outcome was the difference in the proportion of patients who have ≥3 uncontrolled CVRFs (out of: low-density lipoprotein cholesterol >2.0 mmol/L, blood pressure >140/90 mm Hg, body mass index ≥25 kg/m2, physical inactivity, current smoker) at 6 months adjusted for baseline. Secondary outcomes included differences in biomedical and behavioral CVRFs. Results Among 295 eligible participants, 246 (mean age, 58.6 ± 10.7 years; 39.4% female) were randomized to intervention (n = 124) or control (n = 122). At 6 months, there was no significant difference in the proportion of patients with ≥3 uncontrolled CVRFs (adjusted relative risk [RR] 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75-1.29; P = .88). Intervention participants were less likely to be physically inactive (adjusted RR 0.72; 95% CI 0.57-0.92; P = .01), but there were no significant changes in other single CVRFs. More intervention participants reduced the number of uncontrolled CVRFs at 6-months from baseline than controls (86% vs 75%; RR 1.15; 95% CI 1.00-1.32; P = .04). Conclusions In moderate-high cardiovascular risk primary prevention, text message-based support did not significantly reduce the proportion of patients with ≥3 uncontrolled CVRFs. However, the program did motivate behavior change and significantly improved cardiovascular risk factor control overall. Larger multicenter studies are needed.

Importance Although international guidelines recommend use of the Global Registries of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score (GRS) to guide acute coronary syndrome (ACS) treatment decisions, the prospective utility of the GRS in improving care and outcomes is unproven. Objective To assess the effect of routine GRS implementation on guideline-indicated treatments and clinical outcomes of hospitalized patients with ACS. Design, Setting, and Participants Prospective cluster (hospital-level) randomized open-label blinded end point (PROBE) clinical trial using a multicenter ACS registry of acute care cardiology services. Fixed sampling of the first 10 patients within calendar month, with either ST-segment elevation or non–ST-segment elevation ACS. The study enrolled patients from June 2014 to March 2018, and data were analyzed between February 2020 and April 2020. Interventions Implementation of routine risk stratification using the GRS and guideline recommendations. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was a performance score based on receipt of early invasive treatment, discharge prescription of 4 of 5 guideline-recommended pharmacotherapies, and cardiac rehabilitation referral. Clinical outcomes included a composite of all-cause death and/or myocardial infarction (MI) within 1 year. Results This study enrolled 2318 patients from 24 hospitals and was stopped prematurely owing to futility. Of the patients enrolled, median age was 65 years (interquartile range, 56-74 years), 29.5% were women (n = 684), and 62.9% were considered high risk (n = 1433). Provision of all 3 measures among high-risk patients did not differ between the randomized arms (GRS: 424 of 717 [59.9%] vs control: 376 of 681 [55.2%]; odds ratio [OR], 1.04; 95% CI, 0.63-1.71;P = .88). The provision of early invasive treatment was increased compared with the control arm (GRS: 1042 of 1135 [91.8%] vs control: 989 of 1183 [83.6%]; OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.30-3.96;P = .004). Prescription of 4 of 5 guideline-recommended pharmacotherapies (GRS: 864 of 1135 [76.7%] vs control: 893 of 1183 [77.5%]; OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.68-1.38) and cardiac rehabilitation (GRS: 855 of 1135 [75.1%] vs control: 861 of 1183 [72.8%]; OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.32-1.44) were not different. By 12 months, GRS intervention was not associated with a significant reduction in death or MI compared with the control group (GRS: 96 of 1044 [9.2%] vs control: 146 of 1087 [13.4%]; OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.38-1.14). Conclusions and Relevance Routine GRS implementation in cardiology services with high levels of clinical care was associated with an increase in early invasive treatment but not other aspects of care. Low event rates and premature study discontinuation indicates the need for further, larger scale randomized studies. Trial Registration anzctr.org.auIdentifier:ACTRN12614000550606

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. This study aims to identify predictors of AF-related rehospitalization following an acute AF/flutter admission. Methods: Patients admitted to Westmead Hospital with a primary diagnosis of AF/flutter from 1 May 2014 to 31 May 2018 were included and followed up until 31 May 2019. We defined AF-related rehospitalization as an admission due to recurrent AF/flutter, congestive heart failure, stroke and/or myocardial infarction. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of 30-day outcomes. Cox regression was used to identify independent predictors of long-term outcomes: first AF-related rehospitalization or all-cause mortality. Results: Of 1664 consecutive patients admitted with AF/flutter, 55.8% were male and the median age was 68.0. At 30 days, 123 (7.4%) had an AF-related readmission (110 for AF/flutter and 13 for other cardiovascular outcomes). During a mean follow-up period of 2.1 ± 1.5 years, 683 (41.0%) of patients had at least one AF-related rehospitalization (38.1%, n=634) or died (2.9%, n=49). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.07 - 3.50) was an independent predictor of 30-day AF-related rehospitalization. Age (HR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01 - 1.02 for each additional year), initial admission via emergency (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.08 - 1.54), CKD (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.24 - 2.18), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.09 - 1.83) and the presence of additional comorbidities (HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.04 - 1.83) were independent predictors of first AF-related rehospitalization or death (all p Conclusion: AF-related rehospitalization is common following an acute AF/flutter admission. AF/flutter patients with comorbidities, particularly renal and pulmonary diseases, are at high risk of readmission. Such patients could be targeted for increased surveillance and additional post-discharge support to prevent readmission.

Introduction: Strokes in the young are associated with a disproportionately large economic and social impact in addition to their clinical effects. Standard Modifiable Cardiovascular Risk Factors (SMuRFs; hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and smoking) are key drivers of cardiovascular disease including strokes, however recent temporal trends in the young stroke population have not been characterised. Hypothesis: The proportion of patients with non-SMuRFs are on the rise in a cohort of younger patients with ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack. Methods: Consecutive patients aged Results: Of 487 patients (53.49±9.13yrs, 60% men) analysed, 23% did not have SMuRFs. The proportion of “non-SMuRF” patients increased over time (see Figure; p Conclusions: The proportion of young stroke patients without SMuRFs is substantial and has increased over time. Our findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms underlying stroke development in this population and whether less risk factor treatment of this population could impact longer term outcomes.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a dominant and highly penetrant monogenic disorder present from birth that markedly elevates plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol concentration and, if untreated, leads to premature atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). There are approximately 100,000 people with FH in Australia. However, an overwhelming majority of those affected remain undetected and inadequately treated, consistent with FH being a leading challenge for public health genomics. To further address the unmet need, we provide an updated guidance, presented as a series of systematically collated recommendations, on the care of patients and families with FH. These recommendations have been informed by an exponential growth in published works and new evidence over the last 5 years and are compatible with a contemporary global call to action on FH. Recommendations are given on the detection, diagnosis, assessment and management of FH in adults and children. Recommendations are also made on genetic testing and risk notification of biological relatives who should undergo cascade testing for FH. Guidance on management is based on the concepts of risk re-stratification, adherence to heart healthy lifestyles, treatment of non-cholesterol risk factors, and safe and appropriate use of LDL-cholesterol lowering therapies, including statins, ezetimibe, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors and lipoprotein apheresis. Broad recommendations are also provided for the organisation and development of health care services. Recommendations on best practice need to be underpinned by good clinical judgment and shared decision making with patients and families. Models of care for FH need to be adapted to local and regional health care needs and available resources. A comprehensive and realistic implementation strategy, informed by further research, including assessments of cost-benefit, will be required to ensure that this new guidance benefits all Australian families with or at risk of FH.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether there is an interaction between knowledge about hypertension and awareness of hypertension on the treatment and control of hypertension in three regions of South India at different stages of epidemiological transition (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/HJH/B426). METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, we randomly selected villages within each of rural Trivandrum, West Godavari, and Chittoor. Sampling was stratified by age group and sex. We measured blood pressure and administered a questionnaire to determine knowledge and awareness of hypertension. Logistic regression was used to assess associations of awareness and knowledge about hypertension with its treatment and control in participants with hypertension, while examining for statistical interaction. RESULTS: Among a total of 11 657 participants (50% male; median age 45 years), 3455 had hypertension. In analyses adjusted for age and sex, both knowledge score [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.14 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12--1.17)] and awareness [aOR 104 (95% CI 82--134)] were associated with treatment for hypertension. Similarly, both knowledge score [aOR 1.10; 95% CI (1.08--1.12)] and awareness [aOR 13.4; 95% CI (10.7--16.7)], were positively associated with control of blood pressure in those with hypertension, independent of age and sex. There was an interaction between knowledge and awareness on both treatment and control of hypertension (P of attributable proportion

Background Rapid access cardiology services have been proposed for assessment of acute cardiac conditions via an outpatient model-of-care that potentially could reduce hospitalisations. We describe a new Rapid Access Arrhythmia Clinic (RAAC) and compare major safety endpoints to usual care. Methods We matched 312 adult patients with suspected arrhythmia in RAAC to historical age and sex-matched controls discharged from hospital within Western Sydney Local Health District with suspected arrhythmia. The primary endpoint was a composite of time to first unplanned cardiovascular hospitalisation or cardiac death over 12 months. Results The average age of RAAC patients was 52.2±18.8 years and 51.6±18.8 years for controls, and 48.4% were female in both groups. Mean time from referral to first attended RAAC appointment was 10.5 days. Most were referred from emergency (177, 56.7%) and cardiologists at time of discharge (65, 20.8%). The most common reason for referral was palpitations (180, 57.7%). In total, 155 (49.7%) had a documented arrhythmia, with the most common being atrial fibrillation/flutter (88, 28.2%). The primary endpoint occurred in 35 (11.2%) patients in the RAAC pathway (97.1[95% CI 70–131.3] per 1,000 person-years), compared to 72 (23.1%) patients for usual care controls (229.5[95% CI 180.2–288.1] per 1,000 person-years). Using a propensity score analysis, RAAC pathway significantly reduced the primary endpoint by 59% compared to usual care (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.27–0.62; p Conclusions RAACs for the early investigation and management of suspected arrhythmia is superior to usual care in terms of reduction in unplanned cardiovascular hospitalisation and death.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality globally. Many patients remain on single-drug treatment with poor control, although guidelines recognize that most require combination therapy for blood pressure control. Our hypothesis is that a single-pill combination of 4 blood pressure-lowering agents each at a quarter dose may provide a simple, safe, and effective blood pressure-lowering solution which may also improve long-term adherence. The Quadruple UltrA-low-dose tReaTment for hypErTension (QUARTET) double-blind, active-controlled, randomized clinical trial will examine whether ultra-low-dose quadruple combination therapy is more effective than guideline-recommended standard care in lowering blood pressure. QUARTET will enroll 650 participants with high blood pressure either on no treatment or on monotherapy. Participants will be randomized 1:1 and allocated to intervention therapy of a single pill (quadpill) containing irbesartan 37.5 mg, amlodipine 1.25 mg, indapamide 0.625 mg, and bisoprolol 2.5 mg or to control therapy of a single identical-appearing pill containing irbesartan 150 mg. In both arms, step-up therapy of open-label amlodipine 5 mg will be provided if blood pressure is >140/90 at 6 weeks. The primary outcome is the difference between groups in the change from baseline in mean unattended automated office systolic blood pressure at 12-week follow-up. The primary outcome and some secondary outcomes will be assessed at 12 weeks; there is an optional 12-month extension phase to assess longer-term efficacy and tolerability. Our secondary aims are to assess if this approach is safe, has fewer adverse effects, and has better tolerability compared to standard care control. QUARTET will therefore provide evidence for the effectiveness and safety of a new paradigm in the management of high blood pressure.

Objective Chest pain is a large health care burden in Australia and around the world. Its management requires specialist assessment and diagnostic tests, which can be costly and often lead to unnecessary hospital admissions. There is a growing unmet clinical need to improve the efficiency and management of chest pain. This study aims to show the cost-benefit of rapid access chest pain clinics (RACC) as an alternative to hospital admission. Design Retrospective cost-benefit analysis for 12 months. Setting RACCs in three Sydney tertiary referral hospitals. Main outcome measures Cost per patient. Results Hospitals A, B and C implemented RACCs but each operating with slightly different staffing, referral patterns, and diagnostic services. All RACCs had similar costs per patient of AUD$455.25, AUD$427.12 and AUD$474.45, hospitals A, B and C respectively, and similar cost benefits per patient of AUD$1168.75, AUD$1196.88 and AUD$1,149.55, respectively. At least 28%, 26% and 29% of these RACC patients for hospitals A, B, and C, respectively, would have otherwise had to have been admitted to hospital for the model to be cost-beneficial. Conclusion This study shows that a RACC model of care is cost-beneficial in the state of NSW as an alternative strategy to inpatient care for managing chest pain. Scaling up to a national level could represent an even larger benefit for the Australian health system.

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide and its management requires numerous complex decisions shared between patients and their treating cardiologist. However, apart from the restricted time within each consultation, there is limited opportunity to educate patients for optimising the shared decision making that can subsequently impact the effectiveness of their management. A relatively untested opportunity for education is while patients are awaiting cardiology outpatient consultation. This could be in part due to the lack of availability of educational material that is suitable for both patient management and satisfaction, or that the development process is often too time or resource-heavy for the respective cardiologist. Audiovisual educational material created by the cardiologist could potentially be better received by patients while awaiting outpatient consultation. Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of a cardiologist-created, audiovisual educational module in facilitating shared decision making for the management of AF. Methods The cardiologist developed 4 educational videos on AF that aimed to enhance patient knowledge for the following topics: (1) What is AF?, (2) AF Management, (3) Stroke risk and anticoagulation, and (4) Lifestyle modification. The videos were then combined into a web-based audiovisual module where they were viewed sequentially and accompanied by questions gauging patient experience. The module was delivered using Quick Response (QR) code scanning on smart devices to 115 patients with AF in the waiting room prior to cardiologist consultation. Feedback was recorded on 5-point Likert Scales or Visual Analogue Scales (VAS). Results Each video took an average of 3 minutes and 42 seconds for the cardiologist to record using minimal resources comprising of a smart device and a desktop computer for the cardiologist-narrated audiovisual presentation. On the Likert scales, 96.4% of responders were "very satisfied" with the individual videos, with only 0.8% of responses conveying dissatisfaction. The VAS ratings (0-100) were: Improving peri-consultation anxiety 89.93 +/- 9.62; Improving the patient’s decision making 85.86 +/- 16.71; Improving likelihood of long-term treatment adherence 87.30 +/- 12.27; Beneficial effect on patient experience from the cardiologist’s narration in the educational module 86.51 +/- 14.86. Conclusions The audiovisual educational module was created by the cardiologist in a time and resource-efficient manner. Patients responded positively to both the cardiologist’s narration and the content of the AF-specific videos. This approach was not only a beneficial utilisation of the patient’s waiting time prior to outpatient consultation, but also a simple, time and resource-efficient way that cardiologists themselves can provide patient education, and by extension optimise shared decision making in the management of AF.

Up to one-third of COVID-19 patients admitted to intensive care develop an acute cardiomyopathy, which may represent myocarditis or stress cardiomyopathy. Further, while mortality in older patients with COVID-19 appears related to multi-organ failure complicating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the cause of death in younger patients may be related to acute heart failure. Cardiac involvement needs to be considered early on in critically ill COVID-19 patients, and even after the acute respiratory phase is passing. This Statement presents a screening algorithm to better identify COVID-19 patients at risk for severe heart failure and circulatory collapse, while balancing the need to protect health care workers and preserve personal protective equipment (PPE). The significance of serum troponin levels and the role of telemetry and targeted transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in patient investigation and management are addressed, as are fundamental considerations in the management of acute heart failure in COVID-19 patients.

Background Various indicators of socioeconomic position ( SEP ) may have opposing effects on the risk of hypertension in disadvantaged settings. For example, high income may reflect sedentary employment, whereas greater education may promote healthy lifestyle choices. We assessed whether education modifies the association between income and hypertension in 3 regions of South India at different stages of epidemiological transition. Methods and Results Using a cross‐sectional design, we randomly selected villages within each of rural Trivandrum, West Godavari, and Rishi Valley. Sampling was stratified by age group and sex. We measured blood pressure and anthropometry and administered a questionnaire to identify lifestyle factors and SEP , including education, literacy, and income. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between various components of SEP and hypertension, and interaction analyses were used to determine whether educational attainment modified the association between income and hypertension. Trivandrum, the region of highest SEP , had the greatest prevalence of hypertension, whereas Rishi Valley, the lowest SEP region, had the least. Overall, greater income was associated with greater risk of hypertension. In interaction analyses, there was no evidence that educational attainment modified the association between income and hypertension. Conclusions Education is widely considered to ameliorate the risk of hypertension in high‐income countries. Why this effect is absent in rural India merits investigation.

Women have generally worse outcomes after myocardial infarction (MI) compared to men. The reasons for these disparities are multifactorial. At the beginning is the notion-widespread in the community and health care providers-that women are at low risk for MI. This can impact on primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in women, with lower use of preventative therapies and lifestyle counselling. It can also lead to delays in presentation in the event of an acute MI, both at the patient and health care provider level. This is of particular concern in the case of ST elevation MI (STEMI), where "time is muscle". Even after first medical contact, women with acute MI experience delays to diagnosis with less timely reperfusion and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Compared to men, women are less likely to undergo invasive diagnostic testing or PCI. After being diagnosed with a STEMI, women receive less guideline-directed medical therapy and potent antiplatelets than men. The consequences of these discrepancies are significant-with higher mortality, major cardiovascular events and bleeding after MI in women compared to men. We review the sex disparities in pathophysiology, risk factors, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for acute MI, to answer the question: are they due to biology or bias, or both?

Background Rapid Access Cardiology (RAC) services are hospital co-located cardiologist-led outpatient clinics providing prompt assessment and management of chest pain. This service model is part of chest pain management in the United Kingdom. However, little data exists on RAC services in Australia. Our aim was to describe the introduction of RAC services to an Australian tertiary centre (utility, safety, and acceptability). Methods Referrals were accepted for low-intermediate risk chest pain. Referrer and patient clinical data was collected prospectively in the first year of RAC – 4 February 2015 to 4 February 2016. Data was linked to hospital presentations/admissions to identify readmissions/mortality data. Results Among 520 patients (55.0% male, mean age 55.2 years), 87.6% were referred from emergency and 68.4% assessed within 5 days. The final diagnosis was new coronary artery disease (CAD) in 7.9%, and 81.3% had ≥2 cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, overweight/obesity, smoker, pre-existing CAD, and chronic renal failure). On average, 0.8 cardiac tests were ordered per person. In total, 35 (6.7%) had invasive coronary angiograms, with 51.4% having obstructive CAD. Patients reported in surveys (82.8% response rate) that 93.0% “strongly agreed” RAC services were useful to the community. Referrers were also “very satisfied” with RAC (7/17) or “satisfied” (9/17). Furthermore, of 336 referrals, referrers reported without RAC they would admit the patient in 11.3% of cases. There were 4.8% (25/520) unplanned cardiovascular readmissions and 0.6% (3/520) of these were for acute coronary syndromes and no deaths. Conclusions Outpatient RAC services are an accepted, effective and safe pathway for management of low-intermediate risk chest pain.

ObjectiveThe aim of the MEDication reminder APPs to improve medication adherence in Coronary Heart Disease Study was to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of using publicly available high-quality medication reminder applications (apps) to improve medication adherence compared with usual care in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). An additional aim was to examine whether an app with additional features improved adherence further.MethodsPatients with CHD (n=163) were randomised to one of three groups: (1) usual care, (2) a basic app or (3) an advanced app with interactive/customisable features. The primary analysis compared usual care versus app use on the primary outcome of the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included blood pressure and cholesterol levels.ResultsThe mean age was 57.9 years and 87.7% were male. At 3 months, patients using an app had higher adherence (mean MMAS-8 score 7.11) compared with the usual care group (mean MMAS-8 score 6.63) with a mean difference between groups of 0.47 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.82, p=0.008). There was no significant difference in patients using the basic app versus the advanced app (mean difference −0.16, 95% CI −0.56 to 0.24, p=0.428). There were no significant differences in secondary clinical outcome measures.ConclusionPatients with CHD who used medication reminder apps had better medication adherence compared with usual care, and using apps with additional features did not improve this outcome further. These data suggest medication apps are likely to help patients with chronic health conditions adhere to medicines, but further examination of whether such benefits are sustained is warranted.Clinical trial registration numberACTRN12616000661471; Results.