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Background With the increase in cardiac PET/CT availability and utilization, the development of a PET/CT-based major adverse cardiovascular events, including death, myocardial infarction (MI), and revascularization (MACE-Revasc) risk assessment score is needed. Here we develop a highly predictive PET/CT-based risk score for 90-day and one-year MACE-Revasc. Methods and results 11,552 patients had a PET/CT from 2015 to 2017 and were studied for the training and development set. PET/CT from 2018 was used to validate the derived scores (n = 5049). Patients were on average 65 years old, half were male, and a quarter had a prior MI or revascularization. Baseline characteristics and PET/CT results were used to derive the MACE-Revasc risk models, resulting in models with 5 and 8 weighted factors. The PET/CT 90-day MACE-Revasc risk score trended toward outperforming ischemic burden alone [P = .07 with an area under the curve (AUC) 0.85 vs 0.83]. The PET/CT one-year MACE-Revasc score was better than the use of ischemic burden alone (P Conclusion The derived PET/CT 90-day and one-year MACE-Revasc risk scores were highly predictive and outperformed ischemic burden and cardiologist assessment. These scores are easy to calculate, lending to straightforward clinical implementation and should be further tested for clinical usefulness.

Patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), but without standard modifiable risk factors (SMuRF-less), are surprisingly common and appear to have a worse, or at best similar, short-term prognosis. However, relatively little attention has been paid to the prevalence and prognosis of SMuRF-less patients with non-STEMI (NSTEMI). The aim of our study was to identify the proportion and outcomes of SMuRF-less NSTEMI patients in a large US healthcare population. Patients with NSTEMI between 2001–2021 presenting to Intermountain Healthcare hospitals and catheterization laboratories were included. SMuRF-less status was defined as no clinical diagnosis of, or treatment for, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and smoking. Outcomes were assessed at 60 days and long-term for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: death, myocardial infarction, and heart failure hospitalization). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to determine MACE hazard ratios (HR) for SMuRF-less versus patients with SMuRF. NSTEMI patients totaled 8196, of which 1458 (17.8%) were SMuRF-less. SMuRF-less patients were younger, more frequently male, had fewer comorbidities, and were slightly less likely to have revascularization. For SMuRF-less patients, 60-day MACE outcomes were lower (adj HR = 0.55, p < 0.0001), and this persisted for long-term MACE outcomes (adj HR = 0.64, p < 0.0001) and for each of its components. In this large US healthcare population, SMuRF-less NSTEMI presentation, as with STEMI presentation, was found to be common (17.8%). However, unlike STEMI reports, short- and long-term outcomes were better for SMuRF-less patients. Further studies to increase understanding of risk factors and preventive measures for NSTEMI in SMuRF-less patients are indicated.

Background Medication adherence is generally low and challenging to address because patient actions control healthcare delivery outside of medical environments. Behavioral nudging changes clinician behavior, but nudging patient decision-making requires further testing. This trial evaluated whether behavioral nudges can increase statin adherence, measured as the proportion of days covered (PDC). Methods In a 12-month parallel-group, unblinded, randomized controlled trial, adult patients in Intermountain Healthcare cardiology clinics were enrolled. Inclusion required an indication for statins and membership in SelectHealth insurance. Subjects were randomized 1:1 to control or nudges. Nudge content, timing, frequency, and delivery route were personalized by CareCentra using machine learning of subject motivations and abilities from psychographic assessment, demographics, social determinants, and the Intermountain Mortality Risk Score. PDC calculation used SelectHealth claims data. Results Among 182 subjects, age averaged 63.2±8.5 years, 25.8% were female, baseline LDL-C was 82.5±32.7 mg/dL, and 93.4% had coronary disease. Characteristics were balanced between nudge (n=89) and control arms (n=93). The statin PDC was greater at 12 months in the nudge group (PDC: 0.742±0.318) compared to controls (PDC: 0.639±0.358, p=0.042). Adherent subjects (PDC ≥80%) were more concentrated in the nudge group (66.3% vs. controls: 50.5%, p=0.036) while a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and revascularization was non-significant (nudges: 6.7% vs. control: 10.8%, p=0.44). Conclusions Persuasive behavioral nudges driven by artificial intelligence resulted in a clinically important increase in statin adherence in general cardiology patients. This precision patient decision support utilized computerized nudge design and delivery with minimal on-going human input.

Studies primarily outside the United States have reported that SMuRF-less STEMI patients are surprisingly common (14–27%) and have a worse in-hospital/short-term prognosis. Given potential demographic and management differences over time and in the US, we aimed to identify the proportion and outcomes of SMuRF-less STEMI patients in a large US healthcare population. Patients with a first STEMI presenting to Intermountain Healthcare catheterization laboratories between 2001–2021 were included. SMuRF included a clinical diagnosis of, or treatment for, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and smoking. Follow-up MACE were defined as death, MI, and heart failure hospitalization (HFH) by 60 days and long-term. Qualifying STEMI patients totaled 3510, 26.2% (919) with no SMuRF. SMuRF-less patients were younger, more frequently male, and had fewer comorbidities. Neither total MACE (adj HR 0.95, p = 0.72) nor death (adj HR 1.06, p = 0.69) differed by SMuRF status at 60 days. Long-term outcomes were more frequent in SMuRF patients, which remained significant for total MACE (adj HR 0.83, p = 0.02) and HFH (HR 0.36, p = 0.0005) after adjustment for baseline differences other than SMuRF. Results were consistent through subgroup and sensitivity analyses. In this moderately large US healthcare population, SMuRF-less STEMI presentation was confirmed to be common (26.2%). However, unlike earlier, mostly non-US reports, adjusted short-term outcomes were similar, and long-term outcomes were more favorable. Further studies to increase understanding, recognition, and treatment of risk factors in SMuRF-less subjects and to optimize STEMI management are indicated.

Background: Flecainide is a useful antiarrhythmic for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, because of ventricular proarrhythmia risk, a history of myocardial infarction (MI) or coronary artery disease (CAD) is a flecainide exclusion, and stress testing is used to exclude ischemia. We assessed whether absent/mild coronary artery calcium (CAC) can supplement or avoid the need for stress testing. Methods: We assessed ischemic burden using regadenoson Rb-82 PET/CT in 1372 AF patients ≥50 years old without symptoms or signs of clinical CAD. CAC was determined qualitatively by low dose attenuation computed tomography (CT) (n = 816) or by quantitative CT (n = 556). Ischemic burden and clinical outcomes were compared by CAC burden. Results: Patients with CAC absent or mild (n = 766, 57.2%) were younger, more frequently female, and had higher BMI but lower rates of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Average ischemic burden was lower in CAC-absent/mild patients, and CAC-absent/mild patients showed greater coronary flow reserve, had fewer referrals for coronary angiography, and less often had obstructive CAD. Revascularization at 90 days was lower, and the rate of longer-term major adverse cardiovascular events was favorable. Conclusions: An easily administered, inexpensive, low radiation CAC scan can identify a subset of flecainide candidates with a low ischemic burden on PET stress testing that rarely needs coronary angiography/intervention and has favorable outcomes. Absent or mild CAC-burden combined with other clinical information may avoid or complement routine stress testing. However, additional, ideally randomized and multicenter trials are indicated to confirm these findings before replacing stress testing with CAC screening in selecting patients for flecainide therapy in clinical practice.

Alcohol consumption has long been associated with cardiovascular (CV) benefit, but it also has adverse potential. Statins are currently widely used for CV prevention. We evaluated whether alcohol use is associated with lower CV risk in patients on statins. We searched Intermountain Medical Center cardiac catheterization laboratory medical records for patients with a prescription history of statin use or non-use and a self-report of alcohol use or non-use. Alcohol and statin prescription data were available together with long-term (mean [SD], 4.4 [2.4] years) major adverse CV events (MACE, including death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure hospitalizations) in 1701 patients at primary and 3266 patients at secondary CV risk. MACE rates were lower for primary prevention alcohol users than non-users not on statins (adjusted hazard ratio [adj-HR] 0.50 (95% CI 0.33, 0.78, p = 0.002), but not for those on statins (adj-HR 0.84, CI 0.54, 1.32, p = 0.45). MACE rates for secondary prevention were not reduced by alcohol consumption either in statin non-users or users (adj HR 1.18, CI 0.85, 1.64, p = 0.33; adj HR 1.08, CI 0.87, 1.35, p = 0.45, respectively). These findings, together with other recent supportive studies, can help inform personal choices in alcohol consumption and professional society recommendations for CV prevention.

Introduction:Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are widely prescribed medications. A recent British study reported a 14% increased risk of lung cancer with ACEI versus angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) prescriptions, and risk increased with longer use. We sought to validate this observation.Methods:We searched the Intermountain Enterprise Data Warehouse from 1996 to 2018 for patients newly treated with an ACEI or an ARB and with ≥1 year’s follow-up or to incident lung cancer or death. Unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for lung cancer and for lung cancer or all-cause mortality were calculated for ACEIs compared to ARBs.Results:A total of 187,060 patients met entry criteria (age 60.2 ± 15.1 y; 51% women). During a mean of 7.1 years follow-up (max: 20.0 years), 3,039 lung cancers and 43,505 deaths occurred. Absolute lung cancer rates were 2.16 and 2.31 per 1000 patient-years in the ARB and ACEI groups, respectively. The HR of lung cancer was modestly increased with ACEIs (unadjusted HR = 1.11, CI: 1.02, 1.22, P = .014; adjusted HR = 1.18, CI: 1.06, 1.31, P = .002; number needed to harm [NNH] 6,667). Rates of the composite of lung cancer or death over time also favored ARBs. Lung cancer event curves separated gradually over longitudinal follow-up beginning at 10-12 years.Conclusions:We noted a small long-term increase in lung cancer risk with ACEIs compared with ARBs. Separation of survival curves was delayed until 10-12 years after treatment initiation. Although the observed increases in lung cancer risk are small, implications are potentially important because of the broad use of ACEIs. Thus, additional work to validate these findings is needed.

The objective of this study was to describe the diagnostic value of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and ultrasound (US) for identifying metastatic axillary disease in primary breast cancer. This is a retrospective review of 240 patients with treatment-naive unilateral primary breast cancer of at least stage T2. Eighty-five patients met our inclusion criteria. Initial whole-body PET/CT and axillary US examinations were reviewed and compared with the criterion standard of fine-needle aspiration cytology. Sensitivity, accuracy, and positive predictive value (PPV) for each modality were computed. Because of all positive US cases, specificity and negative predictive value of US were not determined. Sensitivity and accuracy between modalities were compared using McNemar test. The majority of the patients were White women with clinical inflammatory breast cancer and with histologically invasive ductal carcinoma. The most common tumor and nodal stage was T4N3. The tumors were predominantly estrogen receptor positive, progesterone receptor negative, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative. The sensitivities of PET/CT and US were 96.2% and 100%, respectively. The accuracies for PET/CT and US were 91.8% and 94.1%, respectively. The PPV for PET/CT was 95.1%, and for US, the PPV was 94.1%. No significant difference in sensitivity or accuracy was shown between PET/CT and US for the diagnosis of metastatic axillary nodal disease. Three of 85 cases showed discordance between negative PET/CT and positive US and fine-needle aspiration cytology.

Aims Animal models repeatedly show fasting increases longevity. Human data, though, are limited to anecdotal claims. This study evaluated the association of routine fasting with survival and, secondarily, with incident major adverse cardiovascular events. Methods and results Cardiac catheterization patients enrolled in the Intermountain INSPIRE longitudinal cohort (n = 2785) during 2013–2015 were followed through March 2019. A fasting survey was completed in n = 2025 (73%) of this cohort and 1957 were included in the final data analysis after 68 participants were removed (24 for data issues and 44 for fasting less than 5 years). Self-reported routine fasting behaviour, years of participation in fasting, and other fasting characteristics were surveyed. Mortality was the primary outcome and incident myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and heart failure (HF) were secondary. Routine fasters (n = 389, mean age 64 ± 14 years, 34% female) averaged 42 ± 18 years of routine fasting (minimum 5 years). Non-fasters (n = 1568, aged 63 ± 14 years, 36% female) included never fasters (n = 1120 with 0 years of fasting) and previous fasters (n = 448 who averaged 32 ± 21 years of prior fasting but had stopped prior to enrolment). Routine fasters had greater survival vs. non-fasters [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.36–0.80; P = 0.002] and lower incidence of HF (adjusted HR = 0.31, CI = 0.12–0.78; P = 0.013), but not MI or stroke after adjustment. Conclusions Routine fasting followed during two-thirds of the lifespan was associated with higher survival after cardiac catheterization. This may in part be explained by an association of routine fasting with a lower incidence of HF. Clinical study registration The Intermountain INSPIRE registry https://clinicaltrials.gov/, NCT02450006.

Takotsubo (stress) cardiomyopathy (TCM) is characterized by transient apical left ventricular dysfunction precipitated by emotional or physical stress. Its presentation makes it difficult to differentiate from an acute coronary syndrome. A suggestive echocardiogram plus normal coronary angiography most often are used for diagnosis. Radionuclide perfusion study (RPS) findings in TCM, including by positron emission tomography (PET), have been poorly characterized. Intermountain Healthcare electronic medical records were searched from 2009 to 2019 for patients with a discharge diagnosis of TCM, stress CM, or takotsubo syndrome. 16 TCM patients with an RPS, including by PET in 8, were identified: 13 (81%) were women; age averaged 72 years (50-89 years); 14 had an identified stressor. TCM diagnosis was definite in 11 and probable/possible in 5. RPS was abnormal in 11, with 9 showing an apical perfusion deficit, whereas angiography in 14 showed normal coronaries in 12 and non-obstructive disease in 2. Echo ejection fraction averaged 41% (29%-60%); an apical wall motion abnormality was present in 14 (88%). Troponin elevations were noted in 14/15. The presenting ECG was abnormal is 14, frequently showing ST-T-wave abnormalities. 13 patients were discharged on a beta-blocker. Follow-up echo (in 12) showed recovered ejection fraction in 9 and recovered apical wall motion in 11. Despite having normal or non-obstructive epicardial coronary arteries on angiography, TCM patients frequently present with apical wall motion abnormalities and matching RPS perfusion defects. These findings suggest microvascular abnormalities, whose pathophysiology, temporal course, and clinical implications should be the subject of further investigation.

Aims Despite the effects of statins in reducing cardiovascular events and slowing progression of coronary atherosclerosis, significant cardiovascular (CV) risk remains. Icosapent ethyl (IPE), a highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester, added to a statin was shown to reduce initial CV events by 25% and total CV events by 32% in the REDUCE-IT trial, with the mechanisms of benefit not yet fully explained. The EVAPORATE trial sought to determine whether IPE 4 g/day, as an adjunct to diet and statin therapy, would result in a greater change from baseline in plaque volume, measured by serial multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), than placebo in statin-treated patients. Methods and results A total of 80 patients were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Patients had to have coronary atherosclerosis as documented by MDCT (one or more angiographic stenoses with ≥20% narrowing), be on statin therapy, and have persistently elevated triglyceride (TG) levels. Patients underwent an interim scan at 9 months and a final scan at 18 months with coronary computed tomographic angiography. The pre-specified primary endpoint was change in low-attenuation plaque (LAP) volume at 18 months between IPE and placebo groups. Baseline demographics, vitals, and laboratory results were not significantly different between the IPE and placebo groups; the median TG level was 259.1 ± 78.1 mg/dL. There was a significant reduction in the primary endpoint as IPE reduced LAP plaque volume by 17%, while in the placebo group LAP plaque volume more than doubled (+109%) (P = 0.0061). There were significant differences in rates of progression between IPE and placebo at study end involving other plaque volumes including fibrous, and fibrofatty (FF) plaque volumes which regressed in the IPE group and progressed in the placebo group (P Conclusions Icosapent ethyl demonstrated significant regression of LAP volume on MDCT compared with placebo over 18 months. EVAPORATE provides important mechanistic data on plaque characteristics that may have relevance to the REDUCE-IT results and clinical use of IPE.

Aims Though statin therapy is known to slow coronary atherosclerosis progression and reduce cardiovascular (CV) events, significant CV risk still remains. In the REDUCE-IT study, icosapent ethyl (IPE) added to statin therapy reduced initial CV events by 25% and total CV events by 30%, but its effects on coronary atherosclerosis progression have not yet been fully investigated. Therefore, this study is to determine whether IPE 4 g/day will result in a greater change from baseline in plaque volume measured by serial multidetector computed tomography than placebo in statin-treated patients. Methods and results EVAPORATE is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Patients had to have coronary atherosclerosis by coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) (≥1 angiographic stenoses with ≥20% narrowing), on stable statin therapy with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels 40–115 mg/dL, and persistently high triglyceride levels (135–499 mg/dL). Patients underwent an interim scan at 9 months and were followed for an additional 9 months with CCTA at 0, 9, and 18 months. Here, we present the protocol-specified interim efficacy results. A total of 80 patients were enrolled, with 67 completing the 9-month visit and having interpretable CCTA at baseline and at 9 months (age = 57 ± 6 years, male = 36, 63%). At the 9-month interim analysis, there was no significant change in low attenuation plaque (LAP) between active and placebo groups (74% vs. 94%, P = 0.469). However, there was slowing of total non-calcified plaque (sum of LAP, fibrofatty, and fibrous plaque) (35% vs. 43%, P = 0.010), total plaque (non-calcified + calcified plaque) (15% vs. 26%, P = 0.0004), fibrous plaque (17% vs. 40%, P = 0.011), and calcified plaque (−1% vs. 9%, P = 0.001), after adjustment by baseline plaque, age, sex, diabetes, baseline triglyceride levels, and statin use. Conclusion EVAPORATE is the first study using CCTA to evaluate the effects of IPE as an adjunct to statin therapy on atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in a high-risk CV population with persistently high triglyceride levels. It provides important mechanistic data in regards to the reduction in CV events in the REDUCE-IT clinical trial. ClinicalTrials. govIdentifier NCT029226027.

James A. Arrighi, MD, FACC, Chair Lisa A. Mendes, MD, FACC, Co-Chair Jesse E. Adams iii, MD, FACC[∗][1] John E. Brush, Jr, MD, FACC[∗][1] G. William Dec, Jr, MD, FACC Ali Denktas, MD, FACC Susan M. Fernandes, LPD, PA-C Sanjeev A. Francis, MD, FACC Rosario Freeman, MD, MS, FACC[∗][1

Background The rate-limiting step in STEMI diagnosis often is the availability of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and its interpretation. The potential may exist to speed the availability of 12-lead ECG information by using commonly available mobile technologies. We sought to test whether combining serial smartphone single-lead ECGs to create a virtual 12-lead ECG can accurately diagnose STEMI. Methods Consenting patients presenting with symptoms consistent with a possible STEMI had contemporaneous standard 12-lead and smartphone ‘12-lead equivalent’ ECG (produced by electronically combining serial single-lead ECGs) recordings obtained. Matched ECGs were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively by a panel of blinded readers and classified as STEMI/STEMI equivalent (LBBB), Not-STEMI, or uninterpretable. Interpretable ECG pairs were graded as showing good, fair, or poor correlation. Results Two hundred four subjects (age = 60 years, males = 57%, STEMI activation = 45%) were enrolled from 5 international sites. Smartphone ECG quality was graded as good in 151 (74.0%), fair in 32 (15.7%), poor in 8 (3.9%), and uninterpretable in 13 (6.4%). A STEMI/STEMI equivalent diagnosis was identified by standard 12-lead ECG in 57/204 (27.9%) recordings. For all interpretable pairs of smartphone ECGs compared with standard ECGs (n = 190), the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for STEMI/STEMI equivalent by smartphone were 0.89, 0.84, 0.70 and 0.95, respectively. Conclusions A ‘12-lead equivalent’ ECG obtained from multiple serial single-lead ECGs from a smartphone can identify STEMI with good correlation to a standard 12-lead ECG. This technology holds promise to improve outcomes in STEMI by enhancing the reach and speed of diagnosis and thereby early treatment.

Background Hyperkalaemia (HK) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Both acute and chronic conditions may alter potassium homeostasis. Our aim is to describe HK incidence, clinical outcomes, and associated resource use within a large, integrated healthcare system. Methods Adult patients seen at Intermountain Healthcare facilities with a serum potassium (sK) result between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2018 were retrospectively studied. Descriptive assessment of a population with detected HK, defined by any sK > 5.0 mmol/L and HK frequency and severity to associated resource use and characteristics of HK predictors were made. Multivariable Cox hazard regression was used to evaluate HK to outcomes. Results Of 1,208,815 patients included, 13% had HK. Compared to no-HK, HK patients were older (60 ± 18 vs 43 ± 18 years, P P P P P P P Conclusion Within this large system, HK was associated with a large clinical burden, affecting over 1 in 10 patients; HK was also associated with increased 3-year MACE risk and higher medical costs. Although risk worsened with more severe or persistently recurring HK, even mild or intermittent HK episodes were associated with significantly greater adverse clinical outcomes and medical costs. The HyperK Score predicted patients who may benefit from closer management to reduce HK risk and associated costs. It should be remembered that our assumptions are valid only for detected HK and not HK per se.

ObjectivesThe Intermountain Risk Score (IMRS), composed using published sex-specific weightings of parameters in the complete blood count (CBC) and basic metabolic profile (BMP), is a validated predictor of mortality. We hypothesised that IMRS calculated from prepandemic CBC and BMP predicts COVID-19 outcomes and that IMRS using laboratory results tested at COVID-19 diagnosis is also predictive.DesignProspective observational cohort study.SettingPrimary, secondary, urgent and emergent care, and drive-through testing locations across Utah and in sections of adjacent US states. Viral RNA testing for SARS-CoV-2 was conducted from 3 March to 2 November 2020.ParticipantsPatients aged ≥18 years were evaluated if they had CBC and BMP measured in 2019 and tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome was a composite of hospitalisation or mortality, with secondary outcomes being hospitalisation and mortality separately.ResultsAmong 3883 patients, 8.2% were hospitalised and 1.6% died. Subjects with low, mild, moderate and high-risk IMRS had the composite endpoint in 3.5% (52/1502), 8.6% (108/1256), 15.5% (152/979) and 28.1% (41/146) of patients, respectively. Compared with low-risk, subjects in mild-risk, moderate-risk and high-risk groups had HR=2.33 (95% CI 1.67 to 3.24), HR=4.01 (95% CI 2.93 to 5.50) and HR=8.34 (95% CI 5.54 to 12.57), respectively. Subjects aged ConclusionsIMRS, a simple risk score using very basic laboratory results, predicted COVID-19 hospitalisation and mortality. This included important abilities to identify risk in younger adults with few diagnosed comorbidities and to predict risk prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

ObjectivesIntermittent fasting boosts some host defence mechanisms while modulating the inflammatory response. Lower-frequency fasting is associated with greater survival and lower risk from COVID-19-related comorbidities. This study evaluated associations of periodic fasting with COVID-19 severity and, secondarily, initial infection by SARS-CoV-2.DesignProspective longitudinal observational cohort study.SettingSingle-centre secondary care facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA with follow-up across a 24-hospital integrated healthcare system.ParticipantsPatients enrolled in the INSPIRE registry in 2013–2020 were studied for the primary outcome if they tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during March 2020 to February 2021 (n=205) or, for the secondary outcome, if they had any SARS-CoV-2 test result (n=1524).InterventionsNo treatment assignments were made; individuals reported their personal history of routine periodic fasting across their life span.Main outcome measuresA composite of mortality or hospitalisation was the primary outcome and evaluated by Cox regression through February 2021 with multivariable analyses considering 36 covariables. The secondary outcome was whether a patient tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.ResultsSubjects engaging in periodic fasting (n=73, 35.6%) did so for 40.4±20.6 years (max: 81.9 years) prior to COVID-19 diagnosis. The composite outcome occurred in 11.0% of periodic fasters and 28.8% of non-fasters (p=0.013), with HR=0.61 (95% CI 0.42 to 0.90) favouring fasting. Multivariable analyses confirmed this association. Other predictors of hospitalisation/mortality were age, Hispanic ethnicity, prior MI, prior TIA and renal failure, with trends for race, smoking, hyperlipidaemia, coronary disease, diabetes, heart failure and anxiety, but not alcohol use. In secondary analysis, COVID-19 was diagnosed in 14.3% of fasters and 13.0% of non-fasters (p=0.51).ConclusionsRoutine periodic fasting was associated with a lower risk of hospitalisation or mortality in patients with COVID-19. Fasting may be a complementary therapy to vaccination that could provide immune support and hyperinflammation control during and beyond the pandemic.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov,NCT02450006(the INSPIRE registry).

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines are being administered on an unprecedented scale. Assessing the risks of side effects is needed to aid clinicians in early detection and treatment. This study examined the risk of inflammatory heart disease, including pericarditis and myocarditis, after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Methods Intermountain Healthcare patients with inflammatory heart disease from December 15, 2020 to June 15, 2021, and with or without preceding SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations, were studied. Relative rates of inflammatory heart disease were examined for vaccinated patients compared to unvaccinated patients. Results Of 67 patients identified with inflammatory heart disease, 21 (31.3%) had a SARS-Cov-2 vaccination within the previous 60 days. Overall, 914 611 Intermountain Healthcare patients received a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, resulting in an inflammatory heart disease rate of 2.30 per 100 000 vaccinated patients. The relative risk of inflammatory heart disease for the vaccinated patients compared to the unvaccinated patients was 2.05 times higher rate within the 30-day window (P = .01) and had a trend toward increase in the 60-day window (relative rate = 1.63; P = .07). All vaccinated patients with inflammatory heart disease were treated successfully with 1 death related to a pre-existing condition. Conclusions Although rare, the rate of inflammatory heart disease was greater in a SARS-CoV-2-vaccinated population than the unvaccinated population. This risk is eclipsed by the risk of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 and its associated, commonly severe outcomes. Nevertheless, clinicians and patients should be informed of this risk to facilitate earlier recognition and treatment.

Background: As SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are being administered on an unprecedented scale, it is critical to carefully assess risks to aid clinicians in the early detection and treatment of potential side effects. Here we examine increases in the risk of pericarditis following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Methods: We examined pericarditis cases from December 15, 2020, to April 15, 2021 seen within Intermountain Healthcare, an integrated healthcare system. Pericarditis was defined by at least two of the following criteria: chest pain, EKG changes, pericardial effusion, and pericardial rub; excluded cases secondary to non-infectious causes (e.g., AF ablation). We determined vaccination within 60 days prior to pericarditis diagnosis using Intermountain and Utah Department of Health vaccination information. Rates of pericarditis per 10 million patient days for vaccinated patients compared to unvaccinated patients were compared. We also examined a case-crossover design with 4 control dates for each pericarditis case. Results: Of the 29 identified pericarditis cases, 13 (44.8%) had a SARS-Cov-2 vaccination within 60 days before the onset of pericarditis. During the same period, 743,774 individuals in the Intermountain Healthcare system had received at least one dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Thus, 1.7 per 100,000 vaccinated individuals were diagnosed with acute pericarditis. Within a 60-day post-vaccination window, the rate of acute pericarditis per 10-million patient-days was 3.90 in the vaccinated group and 0.84 in the unvaccinated group. Thus, there was a 4.49 times higher rate of acute pericarditis in vaccinated patients compared to the unvaccinated individuals (p=0.0002). Case-crossover analysis showed the odds of acute pericarditis was 3.33 higher (95% CI: 1.29, 10.14) in the vaccinated versus the unvaccinated group (p=0.01). Conclusions: We found acute pericarditis to be a rare post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination event, but the risk was significantly higher than in comparable unvaccinated subjects. This risk of pericarditis post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is eclipsed by the risk of contracting COVID-19 and its associated, commonly seen severe outcomes. Nevertheless, clinicians should be informed of this risk to facilitate earlier recognition and treatment.

Background: Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor remains standard treatment for patients undergoing PCI, and clopidogrel remains the most used agent. Many patients (pts) are genetically resistant to clopidogrel and may not receive its full benefit. However, the use of platelet function testing to provide individualized management of P2Y12 inhibitor therapy remains controversial. Therefore, we analyzed the impact of the use of platelet function testing after PCI in a large real-world experience. Methods: We searched Intermountain Healthcare medical records for pts who underwent PCI followed by DAPT. We compared 1-year outcomes (MACE=death, MI, stroke; and repeat revascularization and major bleeding) in those who did, or did not, receive P2Y12 platelet function testing within 90 days. Cox hazard regression analysis was used to determine multivariable hazard ratios. Results: A total of 11,561 pts were included, of which 650 (5.6%) received P2Y12 platelet function testing. Baseline demographics, discharge P2Y12 inhibitor and outcomes are shown in the Table. Conclusion: In this real-world analysis of patients undergoing PCI, a small proportion of the patients received P2Y12 platelet function testing. Platelet function testing was associated with increased utilization of prasugrel or ticagrelor and a statistically lower incidence of 1-year MACE (10.8% vs. 12.4%, adjusted odds ratio = 0.69, p=0.03), with a very low incidence of major bleeding. Further investigation regarding the potential benefits of individualized management of DAPT therapy through P2Y12 platelet function testing may be justified.

Introduction: Adults Hypothesis: Adults Methods: Patients (pts) from 20- 39 yrs of age with at least three lipid labs and outpatient primary care encounters at Intermountain Healthcare, a large integrated healthcare system, prior to January 2010 and an LDL-C measurement between January and December of 2020 (n=14,570) were included and followed for MACE until June 2021. Pts with LDL-C >190 or Results: Baseline characteristics are presented in the Table. MACE for LDL-C ≥160-189 mg/dL was not statistically significant compared to LDL-C Conclusions: The risk of 10-yr MACE in adults

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of daily life. The interpersonal loss due to quarantining and social distancing, compounded with societal disruption has negatively affected mental health. Once established, mental health conditions can become chronic with having subsequent effects on additional risk factors and disease incidence, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods: Patients who completed a PHQ-9 in a primary care setting in the year prior to the COVID pandemic (Mar 1, 2019 to Feb 29, 2020) and during the COVID pandemic (Mar 1, 2020 to Apr 20, 2021) were studied. Patients were stratified into 2 groups: no depression/no longer depressed and remained depressed/became depressed. Patients were assessed for follow-up emergency department (ED) visits for anxiety and chest pain (CP) after PHQ-9 completion during the pandemic. Results: A total of 4,633 patients were studied, with 2,848 (61.5%) being never/no longer depressed and 1,785 (38.5%) remaining/became depressed. PHQ-9 scores during the pandemic were higher than prior to the pandemic among those depressed. A total of 2,171 (46.6%) received a COVID test, with more depressed patients tested compared to non-depressed (Table), but with positivity for SARS-CoV-2 (n=362 [16.7%]) being similar (p=0.18). The table shows baseline characteristics and outcomes. Depression was associated with increased ED visits for anxiety (Table). Those with depression, visited the ED at 3.5 times and 2.7 times greater rate for anxiety and anxiety with CP compared to non-depressed, respectively. Conclusions: Depression was highly prevalent among patients who receive routine primary care, with depressive symptoms increasing during the pandemic. Since depression and anxiety are associated with an increased risk of CVD and associated risk factors, identifying and treating patients early who exhibit such symptoms will be important in reducing the risk of future CVD and risk factor incidence.

Introduction: Intermittent fasting reduces weight and cardiometabolic risk factors. In the WONDERFUL Trial (NCT02770313), intermittent fasting reduced homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the Metabolic Syndrome Score (MSS), with insulin having the largest decline. The red cell distribution width (RDW) measures the dispersion of red blood cell size, is strongly predictive of mortality and major adverse events, and may be a biomarker of general health. This post hoc study of subjects from the WONDERFUL Trial examined the interactive effect of intermittent fasting and baseline RDW on changes in insulin, glucose, HOMA-IR, and MSS. Methods: Subjects aged 21-70 years who had pre-diabetes, diabetes, or ≥1 other metabolic syndrome factor and modestly elevated LDL-C were enrolled if they were not taking anti-diabetic or statin medications and were free of chronic diseases (N=71; n=38 intermittent fasting, n=33 controls). Subjects were randomized to 24-hour water-only fasting (twice-weekly for 4 weeks followed by once-weekly for 22 weeks) or ad libitum eating (control) for 26 weeks. Results: Age averaged 49.1±11.1 years and 64.8% were female. Change scores stratified by RDW size distribution (RDW-SD) are shown in the Table. Results were similar when the RDW coefficient of variation (RDW-CV) was used. Intermittent fasting did not change RDW-SD (1.27±9.6 fL vs. control: -0.37±1.76 fL, p=0.34) or RDW-CV (-0.15%±0.55% vs. control: -0.11%±0.45%, p=0.76) over the 26-week trial. Conclusions: Compared to controls, intermittent fasting significantly decreased insulin more in subjects with higher baseline RDW than those with RDW ≤median. This differential effect may also apply to changes in HOMA-IR, glucose, and MSS. These findings should be validated and expanded in larger studies since RDW may identify people who would derive the most cardiometabolic benefit from engaging in intermittent fasting.

Introduction: The use of statins in patients (pts) with heart failure (HF) is controversial. In patients without HF, statins reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), including HF-related events. In contrast, no benefit was observed in statin-treated HF pts in the CORONA and GISSI-HF trials. However, issues with generalizability may limit the applicability of these trial results in clinical practice. Therefore, we analyzed the impact of statin therapy in systolic HF pts in a large real-world experience. Methods: We searched Intermountain Healthcare medical records for pts with a diagnosis of HF and a reported ejection fraction of Results: A total of 15,010 pts were studied. Baseline demographics and outcomes are shown in the Table. Statin use was associated with more frequent ASCVD risk factors yet a lower MACE risk during follow-up. Benefit was similar for primary and secondary prevention pts and for prior and new statin prescriptions. By time-varying hazard ratio (HR) analysis, the longer the pt was on a statin, the greater the reduction in risk of MACE (p Conclusion: These results suggest a potential benefit of selective statin use in the real-world management of HF pts with ASCVD or at high-ASCVD risk. These novel observations deserve validation in additional real-world experiences.

Introduction: Intermittent fasting decreases cardiometabolic risk factors, heart failure (HF) risk, and type 2 diabetes risk. Sodium-glucose transport 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors reduce diabetes and HF risk and a study of canagliflozin reported that it raised galectin-3 levels (Januzzi 2017). Previously in the WONDERFUL trial (NCT02770313), intermittent fasting caused declines in the Metabolic Syndrome Score (MSS) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). This study evaluated intermittent fasting’s effects on galectin-3 in a post hoc analysis of the WONDERFUL Trial. Methods: People aged 21-70 years were enrolled who had ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature or type 2 diabetes, were free of anti-diabetic and statin medications, and had elevated LDL-C. Subjects had 26-week galectin-3 data (N=67; n=36 intermittent fasting, n=31 controls). Subjects were randomized to a 24-hour water-only fasting intervention (fasting twice per week for 4 weeks, then once each week for 22 weeks) or a parallel control arm ( ad libitum eating). This study evaluated the 26-week galectin-3 change score and other changes in HF biomarkers. Results: At 26 weeks, the galectin-3 change score was increased in intermittent fasting (0.575±2.63 ng/mL) vs control (-0.624±2.79 ng/mL; p=0.021). Changes in galectin-3 were inversely correlated with HOMA-IR change score (r= -0.288, p=0.018) and MSS change score (r= -0.238, p=0.052). Changes in galectin-3 at 4 weeks (intermittent fasting: 0.345±2.68 ng/mL; control: -0.465±3.18 ng/mL; p=0.27) and 13 weeks (fasting: 0.917±4.96; control: -0.097±2.83 ng/mL; 0.15) were not significantly different. B-type natriuretic peptide went down in intermittent fasting (-0.328±12.29 pg/mL) but this was not significant compared to controls (15.50±75.34 pg/mL, p=0.23). Other HF biomarkers were unchanged. Conclusions: Water-only 24-hour intermittent fasting increased galectin-3. This rise in galectin-3 was correlated with declining HOMA-IR and MSS and may be similar to reported effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors. Increased galectin-3 may be an adaptive response that could prevent chronic disease by decreasing inflammation, ameliorating insulin resistance, or modifying related mechanisms.

Background: Dealing with statin intolerance represents a major clinical challenge. Controlled clinical trials suggest that a large percentage of statin intolerance may be due to a “nocebo effect”, wherein adverse reactions are linked to pill ingestion irrespective of actual pill content (e.g., SAMSON trial). We tested whether statin intolerance was associated with intolerance to other medications in a large real-world experience. We hypothesized that statin intolerance would be associated with multiple drug intolerances. Methods: We searched Intermountain Healthcare medical records between January 2002 and February 2021 for patients (pts) with a listed intolerance or allergy to 1 or more statins. We compared these to a control group of randomly selected pts not exposed to statins but taking one or more other oral medications. A second control group included all patients taking and tolerating statin therapy. We compared the number of recorded drug allergies/intolerances in the statin intolerant group with those in the 2 control groups. Results: Characteristics of patients in the 3 groups are shown in the Table. On average, statin intolerant patients had 3.64 additional listed drug allergies/intolerances (beyond statins), compared to 1.31 in non-statin exposed controls and 1.81 in the statin tolerant population (both p Conclusion: In this large real-world experience, statin intolerance was strongly associated with intolerance to multiple other medications. Although some patients may have a true intolerance to multiple medications, including statins, patients with multiple drug intolerances may also suffer from a generalized nocebo effect. In either case, noting a patient’s tendency toward multiple drug intolerances can alert clinicians to an increased intolerance risk when initiating a statin and can lead to preemptive medical and educational interventions aimed at reducing this risk.

Red cell distribution width (RDW) predicts cardiovascular outcomes, but it is unstudied with regard to intermittent fasting. In WONDERFUL trial subjects, the effect of the interaction between baseline RDW and intermittent fasting on changes in insulin and other cardiometabolic endpoints and the effect of fasting on changes in RDW were evaluated. The subjects enrolled were aged 21–70 years and were free of statins, anti-diabetes medications, and chronic diseases, and had ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature, as well as elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Subjects were randomized to 24-h, water-only fasting (twice per week for 4 weeks, once per week for 22 weeks) or 26 weeks of ad libitum eating. Subjects (N = 71; n = 38 intermittent fasting, n = 33 controls) had more substantial changes in insulin in intermittent fasting vs. controls (−3.45 ± 2.27 vs. 0.48 ± 3.55 mIU/L) when baseline RDW size distribution (RDW-SD) was ≥median (42.6 fL) than

Intermittent fasting reduces risk of interrelated cardiometabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and heart failure (HF). Previously, we reported that intermittent fasting reduced homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Metabolic Syndrome Score (MSS) in the WONDERFUL Trial. Galectin-3 may act to reduce insulin resistance. This post hoc evaluation assessed whether intermittent fasting increased galectin-3.The WONDERFUL Trial enrolled adults ages 21-70 years with ≥1 metabolic syndrome features or type 2 diabetes who were not taking anti-diabetic medication, were free of statins, and had elevated LDL-C. Subjects were randomized to water-only 24-h intermittent fasting conducted twice-per-week for 4 weeks and once-per-week for 22 weeks or to a parallel control arm with ad libitum energy intake. The study evaluated 26-week change scores of galectin-3 and other biomarkers. Overall, n = 67 subjects (intermittent fasting: n = 36; control: n = 31) completed the trial and had galectin-3 results. At 26-weeks, the galectin-3 change score was increased by intermittent fasting (median: 0.793 ng/mL, IQR: -0.538, 2.245) versus control (median: -0.332 ng/mL, IQR: -0.992, 0.776; p = 0.021). Galectin-3 changes correlated inversely with 26-week change scores of HOMA-IR (r = -0.288, p = 0.018) and MSS (r = -0.238, p = 0.052). Other HF biomarkers were unchanged by fasting.A 24-h water-only intermittent fasting regimen increased galectin-3. The fasting-triggered galectin-3 elevation was inversely correlated with declines in HOMA-IR and MSS. This may be an evolutionary adaptive survival response that protects human health by modifying disease risks, including by reducing inflammation and insulin resistance.Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02770313 (registered on May 12, 2016; first subject enrolled: November 30, 2016; final subject's 26-week study visit: February 19, 2020).