Unmasking the Silent Threat: Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in MS Patients in Bucharest, Romania

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients face increased risks for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
• Identifying specific cardiovascular risk factors in MS populations is essential for proactive healthcare.
• This study examines CVD risk factors in a Romanian cohort of MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify prevalent cardiovascular risk factors in 91 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
• To assess the average cardiovascular risk score within this specific patient group.
• To determine demographic and disease-related factors associated with higher cardiovascular risk.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records and self-administered questionnaires.
• Evaluation of parameters including smoking status, body mass index (BMI), blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure.
• Calculation of average cardiovascular risk using established risk assessment models.

Main Results:

• Average BMI was 23.89 kg/m², with 41.76% outside normal limits. Smoking prevalence varied, with former smokers being the largest group.
• Elevated fasting blood glucose (>126 mg/dL) was observed in 25.27% of patients; 11 patients had hypertension (HTA).
• Average cardiovascular risk was 6.61%, higher in males, rural patients, and those with secondary-progressive MS or disease duration over 10 years.

Conclusions:

• Multiple sclerosis patients exhibit various cardiovascular risk factors that warrant attention.
• Specific subgroups, including males and those with advanced MS, are at higher cardiovascular risk.
• Proactive screening and management of cardiovascular risk factors are vital for improving outcomes in multiple sclerosis patients.