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Leukocyte Count and Risks of Stroke and Coronary Heart Disease: The Circulatory Risk in Communities Study (CIRCS)

Jiaqi Li1, Hironori Imano1,2, Kazumasa Yamagishi3,4

  • 1Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University.

Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis
|March 22, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Elevated leukocyte counts are linked to increased risks of stroke and coronary heart disease in the Japanese population. This association is particularly strong in current smokers, highlighting leukocyte count as a potential cardiovascular risk marker.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular epidemiology
  • Hematology
  • Public health research

Background:

  • Inflammation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Leukocyte count, a marker of inflammation, has been investigated for its association with cardiovascular outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the relationship between leukocyte count and the incidence of stroke and coronary heart disease.
  • To assess these associations within the general Japanese population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 5,242 Japanese adults (40-69 years) had leukocyte counts measured.
  • Participants were followed for up to 21 years for stroke and coronary heart disease events.
  • Hazard ratios were calculated using quartiles of leukocyte count, adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Higher leukocyte counts were associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke (HR 1.50) and coronary heart disease (HR 2.17).
  • The association was more pronounced for specific stroke subtypes like lacunar infarction (HR 1.59).
  • Current smokers showed a significantly higher risk for ischemic stroke and coronary heart disease with elevated leukocyte counts.

Conclusions:

  • Leukocyte count is a significant predictor of ischemic stroke and coronary heart disease risk in the Japanese population.
  • The heightened risk associated with leukocyte count is particularly evident among current smokers.
  • Leukocyte count may serve as a valuable biomarker for cardiovascular risk stratification.
Abstract

Keywords:
Cohort studyCoronary heart diseaseIschemic strokeLacunar infarctionLeukocyte count

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