[Significant reduction of vascular risk factors within the framework of the population-based intervention project...

The INVADE project (Intervention project of cerebrovascular diseases and dementia in the district of Ebersberg) analyzes the effect of risk factor evaluation and modification on the incidence of stroke and dementia. Here we evaluated the changes of risk factors after two years in the INVADE population, particularly in participants with diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease (CHD).

Baseline data of 3909 participants were available. In addition to common risk factors and new risk indicators, various social demographic data and life style parameters were analyzed. A guideline-based therapy was proposed for each participant based on an individual risk profile. The differences between baseline and the 2-year follow-up data were analyzed using the paired t-test and the McNemar test.

Complete follow-up data were available in 3185 participants (1288 men; mean age 69.5 years). For the overall project population the reduction of traditional risk factors was effective, particularly in subjects with hypertension or diabetes. The prevalence of hypertension was 76 %, including 19 % newly diagnosed subjects. In this subgroup, the systolic blood pressure could be reduced by 4.7 mmHg. 20.3 % of the participants showed a diabetes mellitus, blood glucose level decreased about 8 %. Additionally an improvement in hypertension therapy and lipid levels was seen. Comparable results were achieved in the CHD subgroup. Additionally, in the overall study population treatment with antihypertensives and statins increased significantly.

Even after two years, the INVADE project was able to reduce vascular risk factors particularly in high risk patients with diabetes and CHD. Based on these findings, the primary aim of the project, the reduction of stroke and dementia incidence, can be achieved.