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Obesity as a Causal Risk Factor for Aortic Valve Stenosis
Morten Kaltoft1, Anne Langsted1, Børge Grønne Nordestgaard1
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; The Copenhagen General Population Study, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology
|January 18, 2020
Summary
Genetically influenced obesity, measured by body mass index, is causally linked to a higher risk of aortic valve stenosis and replacement. This finding suggests a genetic basis for obesity contributing to this common heart valve disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Genetics
- Epidemiology
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is the most common heart valve disease, yet its causal risk factors remain poorly understood.
- Limited understanding of AVS etiology hinders the development of effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal association between genetically determined obesity and the risk of developing aortic valve stenosis.
- To examine the relationship between genetically influenced body mass index (BMI) and the need for aortic valve replacement.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Mendelian randomization design with data from 108,211 individuals in the Copenhagen General Population Study.
- Assessed genetic variants associated with obesity, BMI, waist-hip ratio, and waist circumference.
- Analyzed associations with incident AVS and AVS replacement over a median follow-up of 8.7 years.
Main Results:
- Genetically elevated BMI showed a causal association with an increased risk of AVS.
- Individuals with higher genetic predisposition scores for obesity exhibited significantly higher risks of AVS.
- A 1-kg/m² increase in genetically influenced BMI correlated with a 52% increased causal risk for AVS and a 49% increased causal risk for AVS replacement.
Conclusions:
- Genetically determined obesity is causally linked to an elevated risk of aortic valve stenosis.
- Findings suggest that genetic factors contributing to obesity play a direct role in the pathogenesis of AVS and the need for valve replacement.
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