Which cardiovascular risk factors are associated with cardiovascular disease and predict future events in advanced age in New Zealand?

Abstract

Aim: To examine the relationships between cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular health at baseline, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) events 28 months later, in advanced age. Methods: 108 adults in advanced age were recruited. Data were collected through a standardised questionnaire including a measure of physical activity, comprehensive physical assessment and fasting blood samples. CVD events at follow-up were ascertained from hospital records. Results: Sixty-seven per cent of participants had CVD at baseline. Physical activity (OR (95% CI): 0.99 (0.98-1.0); P = 0.04) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (OR (95% CI): 0.3 (0.09-1.0); P = 0.046) were independently associated with CVD. The 28-month incidence rate of CVD was 6 cases/100 person-years. Baseline diastolic BP (OR (95% CI): 0.9 (0.9-1.0); P = 0.03) and waist circumference (OR (95% CI): 1.06 (1.01-1.1); P = 0.01) were independently associated with subsequent CVD events at follow-up. Conclusion: Physical activity and HDL levels were inversely associated with CVD at baseline but did not predict future CVD events. CVD in advanced age warrants further investigation. © 2012 ACOTA.