The Multicenter STudy On a Precise algorithm for diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction,...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Diagnostics
• Public Health

Background:

• Current heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) diagnostic algorithms are often unsuitable for Asian populations due to differing symptom prevalence, such as less frequent obesity and more pronounced fatigue.
• Existing models may misdiagnose or delay diagnosis in Asian patients who present with symptoms beyond typical dyspnea.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel HFpEF diagnostic algorithm specifically designed for Asian populations.
• To improve early diagnosis and intervention for HFpEF in diverse ethnic groups by incorporating exercise stress echocardiography.
• To enhance the quality of life and extend healthy life expectancy for individuals with HFpEF.

Main Methods:

• The study is a multicenter prospective observational investigation in Japan, named The Multicenter STudy On a Precise algorithm for diagnosis of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (STOP-HFPEF).
• Participants aged 20 and older who undergo exercise stress echocardiography are included.
• The primary objective is to create a scoring model for diagnosing HFpEF across heart failure stages A, B, and C.

Main Results:

• The study aims to develop a new scoring model for HFpEF diagnosis in Asian populations.
• Secondary outcomes will evaluate the clinical utility of the developed score.
• Comparison of heart-failure incidence, cardiovascular events, and mortality rates will be assessed.

Conclusions:

• A tailored HFpEF diagnostic algorithm is crucial for Asian populations due to distinct clinical presentations.
• Incorporating exercise stress echocardiography and focusing on non-dyspneic symptoms like fatigue can enable earlier HFpEF detection.
• The STOP-HFPEF study is expected to provide a more accurate diagnostic tool, leading to timely interventions and better patient outcomes.