Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a very common neurotransmitter with 36 amino acids that acts as a stimulator of angiogenesis, inflammation and adipogenesis through the NPY2 receptor. The description of high plasma concentrations of NPY in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and left ventricular dysfunction and its close relationship with the sympathetic nervous system reinforces the possibility of a new prognostic biomarker for risk stratification., In recent years, changes in the NPY signalling pathway have been related to ACS. For example, the […]

Abstract Background: There have been scattered reports indicating the possibility that applied magnetic fields can lower human blood viscosity, which has been considered as encouraging for decreasing blood pressure as a result of greater fluidity. Additional motivation comes from partial studies in animals showing some response of vascular variables to magnetic fields. Recently developed FeNbB magnets enable topical application to appropriate sites of much stronger permanent magnetic fields than previously available. Objectives: To establish whether powerful magnetic fields permanently applied […]

Hypertension encompasses a preventable risk factor associated with a significant global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature death. Its prevalence is rising worldwide due to population aging, unbalanced diets, and sedentary, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Prevalence data in Brazil vary according to the database. However, about 30% of adults present blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or more, with CVD representing 22.6% premature passing. This link between hypertension and CVDs-related deaths highlights the relevance of blood pressure control. […]

Abstract Background: Obesity is a public health problem and has been associated with the development of metabolic disorders that have a strong relationship with the onset of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Objective: The objective was to analyze the influence of abdominal obesity (AO) on systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and on the lipid profile in cardiovascular risk stratification in adult women. Methods: Altogether, 91 women participated in the research. Lifestyle information was collected, in addition to the analysis of clinical measures of […]

We usually avoid subjects that make us feel uncomfortable. As in general these subjects are those we cannot deal with, the consequences of such omission can be really bad. Problems with our children are classical examples of topics we avoid. Published in 2003, “We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a novel written by Lionel Shriver, adapted to the big screen in 2011. The film addresses the vicious cycle of problems caused by the mother who neglects her child with […]

Abstract Background: Sarcopenia is a disease that involves skeletal muscle mass loss and is highly prevalent in the older adult population. Moreover, the incidence of sarcopenia is increased in patients with hypertension. Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the association between the classes of the drugs used for arterial hypertension treatment and the presence or absence of sarcopenia. Methods: 129 older adults with hypertension were evaluated by the researchers who registered the participants medication for arterial hypertension treatment. Sarcopenia level […]

Abstract Background: Public programs that provide access to essential medications have played an important role in the care of hypertensive and diabetic patients. However, access in small municipalities has been poorly studied. Objectives: To describe the sociodemographic profile and the medication and health service usage of patients with systemic arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus in a small municipality who use the public medication access programs Health has no Price (Saúde Não Tem Preço – SNTP) and the Minas Pharmacy Network. […]

Abstract Background: Uncontrolled blood pressure has been associated with poor adherence to drug treatment. Objectives: To assess blood pressure control in hypertensive patients attending primary health centers after implementation of a pharmaceutical follow-up program in a city of the north of Brazil. Methods: Observational, cross sectional, descriptive study with 163 hypertensive patients attending public primary health care centers – one located on the riverside and one in the urban area of the city of Santarem, western Pará, Brazil. Adherence to […]

Abstract Background: Current pacemakers allow for the continuous recording of the occurrence of arrhythmic events. One of the most frequent arrhythmias after implantation of a device is atrial fibrillation (AF), an important risk factor for embolic events. The frequency of this arrhythmia in pacemaker patients has not been widely studied. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, incidence, and predictors of the occurrence of AF in patients with double-chamber pacemakers and without a history of atrial fibrillation prior to […]

Abstract Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare type of vasculitis that affects mainly the aorta and its major branches. It is highly similar to giant cell arteritis (GCA), and differentiation between them may not be achieved even by histological examination. Arterial hypertension is typical of TA and is caused by stenosis of the renal arteries. Here we report the case of a 59-year-old woman, with a history of dyslipidemia and anemia, seen in the Internal Medicine department for resistant hypertension. […]