| 1. |
- Fhärm, Eva, 1955-, et al.
(author)
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‘Aiming for the stars’—GPs’ dilemmas in the prevention of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes patients : focus group interviews
- 2009
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In: Family Practice. - Oxford : Oxford University Press. - 0263-2136 .- 1460-2229. ; :26, s. 109-114
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundStudies have revealed low adherence to guidelines for treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.ObjectiveTo explore general practitioners’ experiences regarding treatment practice in type 2 diabetes with specific focus on the prevention of cardiovascular disease.MethodsFourteen experienced general practitioners from nine health care centres with group practices were interviewed in focus groups. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed by qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe overall theme was “dilemmas” in GPs´ treatment practice for type 2 diabetes patients. Five main dilemma categories were identified. First, the GPs were hesitant about labelling someone who feels healthy as ill. Secondly, regarding communicating a diabetes diagnosis and its consequences; should the patient be frightened or comforted? Thirdly, the GPs experienced uncertainty in their role; were they to take responsibility for the care or not? Fourthly, the GPs expressed a conflict between lifestyle changes and drug treatment. Fifthly, the GPs described difficulties in integrating science into reality.ConclusionsThe five dilemmas in the general practitioners’ approach to diabetes patients and the treatment of their cardiovascular risk were related to the GPs´ professional role and communication with the patient. To consider these dilemmas in educational efforts is probably essential to achieve improved diabetes care and guideline adherence.
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| 2. |
- Fhärm, Eva, 1955-
(author)
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Treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetes : time trends and clinical practice
- 2010
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Objectives Patients with type 2 diabetes are at much greater risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including coronary heart disease (CHD), compared to non-diabetics. The lowering of glucose, blood pressure, and plasma lipid levels has been shown to reduce CHD risk, and treatment goals for these risk factors are now part of clinical practice guidelines. However, the incidence and outcome of CHD in diabetic patients does not show the same favourable trend as in the general population. Thus, the overall aim of the thesis was to investigate how the treatment goals for CVD risk factors contained in the national guidelines for diabetes care were reflected in clinical practice, and to explore factors that might influence the remaining high incidence of CHD in the type 2 diabetes population. Research designs and results I. The effectiveness of the introduction of treatment goals for dyslipidaemia was evaluated in a retrospective observational population-based cross-sectional study of 971 diabetic patients participating in the Västerbotten Intervention Programme (VIP) 1995–2004. There was a stronger trend of decrease in cholesterol levels among patients with diabetes compared to the non-diabetic population in 2000–2004. Increased use of lipid-lowering agents influenced the trend in diabetic patients, even though only 25.3% received lipid-lowering treatment after the introduction of the new guidelines. II. The experiences of general practitioners relating to treatment practice for type 2 diabetes with specific focus on the prevention of cardiovascular disease were explored in a focus group study. The overall theme was ‘dilemmas’ in GPs’ treatment practice for patients with type 2 diabetes. Five main dilemma categories were identified. First, GPs were hesitant about labelling a person who feels healthy as ill. Second, as regards communicating a diabetes diagnosis and its consequences, GPs were unsure as to whether patients should be frightened or comforted. Third, GPs experienced uncertainty in their role: should they take responsibility for the care or not? Fourth, GPs expressed concern over a conflict between lifestyle changes and drug treatment. Fifth, the GPs described difficulties when attempting to translate science into reality. III. Screening for microvascular and coronary heart disease according to national guidelines was evaluated in a cross-sectional study of 201 screening-detected patients with type 2 diabetes 1.5±0.7 years after diagnosis. A larger proportion of diabetic patients was screened for nephropathy and retinopathy than for CHD. Twenty-three percent of the patients had minor or major ECG abnormalities, but ECG findings seemed to have little or no impact on CHD prevention using lipid-lowering medication and ASA. A clinical history of CHD correlated with a larger proportion of patients receiving secondary prevention. IV. Time trends relating to the achievement of treatment goals and 10-year CHD risk at three years of diabetes duration were studied in 19,382 patients with type 2 diabetes without CHD, who were reported by primary health care sources in the National Diabetes Register in 2003–2008. National treatment goals for glycaemia, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol were achieved in 78.4%, 65.5%, 55.6%, and 61.0%, respectively, of the diabetic patients in 2008 following a trend of improved results in 2003–2008. Absolute 10-year risk of CHD increased between year of diagnosis and follow up in a studied subgroup while modifiable risk decreased. Conclusions The introduction of treatment goals for dyslipidemia in Swedish national guidelines in 1999 were reflected in lowered cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Since the introduction of the guidelines, an increasing number of diabetic patients are treated in accordance with guidelines. A remaining microvascular focus on the patients together with the revealed dilemmas within the GP’s consultation with diabetic patients might negatively influence the remaining high incidence of CHD in the type 2 diabetes population. Lipid levels, blood pressure and smoking are targets for further improvements.
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| 3. |
- Högberg, Cecilia, et al.
(author)
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Could it be colorectal cancer? : general practitioners' use of the faecal occult blood test and decision making - a qualitative study
- 2015
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In: BMC Family Practice. - : BioMed Central. - 1471-2296. ; 16:1, s. 153-161
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Abdominal complaints are common reasons for contacting primary care physicians, and it can be challenging for general practitioners (GPs) to identify patients with suspected colorectal cancer (CRC) for referral to secondary care. The immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT) is used as a diagnostic aid in primary care, but it is unclear how test results are interpreted. Studies show that negative tests are associated with a risk of delayed diagnosis of CRC and that some patients with positive tests are not investigated further. The aim of this study was to explore what makes GPs suspect CRC and to investigate their practices regarding investigation and referral, with special attention on the use of iFOBTs.METHOD: Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with eleven purposely selected GPs and registrars in Region Jämtland Härjedalen, Sweden, and subjected to qualitative content analysis.RESULTS: In the analysis of the interviews four categories were identified that described what made the physicians suspect CRC and their practices. Careful listening-with awareness of the pitfalls: Attentive listening was described as essential, but there was a risk of being misled by, for example, the patient's own explanations. Tests can help-the iFOBT can also complicate the diagnosis: All physicians used iFOBTs to various extents. In the absence of guidelines, all found their own ways to interpret and act on the test results. To refer or not to refer-safety margins are necessary: Uncertainty was described as a part of everyday work and was handled in different ways. Common vague symptoms could be CRC and thus justified referral with safety margins. Growing more confident-but also more humble: With increasing experience, the GPs described becoming more confident in their decisions but they were also more cautious.CONCLUSIONS: Listening carefully to the patient's history was essential. The iFOBT was frequently used as support, but there were considerable variations in the interpretation and handling of the results. The diagnostic process can be described as navigating uncertain waters with safety margins, while striving to keep the patient's best interests in mind. The iFOBT may be useful as a diagnostic aid in primary care, but more research and evidence-based guidelines are needed.
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| 4. |
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| 5. |
- Bengtsson, Anna, 1973-, et al.
(author)
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Increased knowledge makes a difference!–general practitioners’ experiences of pictorial information about subclinical atherosclerosis for primary prevention: an interview study from the VIPVIZA trial
- 2021
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0281-3432 .- 1502-7724. ; 39:1, s. 77-84
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: To explore how pictorial information on subclinical atherosclerosis affects GPs’ perception of patient cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, their communication with patients, and GPs’ attitude to the treatment of CVD risk factors.Design, setting and subjects: Fifteen individual interviews were conducted between March 2014 and December 2016, with GPs who had received pictorial information regarding their patients’ subclinical atherosclerosis. The pictorial information was also received by the patients together with written information regarding atherosclerosis and CVD risk prior to the appointment with their GP. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.Results: Three categories were identified in the analysis. Increased knowledge makes a difference: When patients had more in-depth knowledge regarding atherosclerosis, the consultation became more patient-centered and moved towards shared decision making. This is real, not just a number: GPs described their risk assessment and the patient’s risk perception as more accurate with pictorial information about subclinical atherosclerosis. How to deal with the result–A passive to active approach: Some GPs acted promptly on the pictorial information while others took no action.Conclusion and implications: Pictorial information regarding patients’ subclinical atherosclerosis affected GPs’ assessment of CVD risk. The communication shifted towards shared decision-making although the GPs’ attitude to the result and treatment of CVD risk factors varied. Informing patients about examination results, both in writing and pictures, prior to a consultation can facilitate shared decision making and enhance preventive measures.Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01849575.KEY POINTS: Providing pictorial information about carotid ultrasound results and information regarding atherosclerosis to GPs and patients affects primary prevention:Informing patients about examination results prior to a consultation can be useful in clinical practice to enhance preventive measuresGPs experienced that increased patient knowledge resulted in a more patient-centered consultation and improved shared decision-makingGPs described their risk assessment and patients’ risk perception as more accurate with pictorial information about subclinical atherosclerosis.
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| 6. |
- Bengtsson, Anna, 1973-, et al.
(author)
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Multi-view carotid ultrasound is stronger associated with cardiovascular risk factors than presence of plaque or single carotid intima media thickness measurements in subclinical atherosclerosis
- 2023
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In: The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging. - : Springer Nature. - 1569-5794 .- 1875-8312. ; 39:8, s. 1461-1471
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We aimed to explore the prevalence of atherosclerosis by using multi-view ultrasound examination of the carotid arteries and its association with clinical risk factors in a middle-aged population at low to intermediate risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Carotid vascular ultrasound was performed in 3532 participants in the VIPVIZA trial. Mean and maximal carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) at prespecified angles and plaque presence were examined on the left and right side. Associations between CVD risk factors and ultrasound variables were quantified by partial least squares (PLS) regression. A combined ultrasound variable was computed using weights of the first PLS component. Associations between CVD risk factors and the combined multi-view ultrasound variable, single cIMT and plaque measurements, respectively, were determined using linear regression modelling. The participants’ mean age was 55.7 years and 52.9% were women. Plaque prevalence was 51.1% in men and 39.0% in women. cIMT was higher in men than in women and in the left compared with the right carotid artery. The strongest association of CVD risk factors was observed with the combined multi-view ultrasound variable (R2 = 24%), compared with single cIMT variables (R2 = 14–18%) and plaque presence (R2 = 15%). The pattern was similar in both sexes. The association with CVD risk factors and the combined ultrasound variable was stronger in 40-year olds (R2 = 22%) compared with 50- or 60-year olds (R = 12%). CVD risk factors are stronger associated with a combined ultrasound variable than plaque presence or single cIMT measures suggesting that carotid multi-view ultrasonography better captures the focality of early atherosclerosis. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01849575. May 8, 2013.
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| 7. |
- Bengtsson, Anna, 1973-
(author)
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Pictorial presentation of subclinical atherosclerosis : a measure to reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease
- 2021
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The overall aim was improved cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention through the VIPVIZA intervention. This includes the provision of pictorial information of subclinical atherosclerosis to participants and their general practitioners (GPs), follow-up phone call, and written information to the participant. VIPVIZA is a Prospective Randomized Open Blinded End-point (PROBE) trial nested within VIP, a CVD prevention program in primary health care in Västerbotten county, Sweden. Middle-aged individuals at low/intermediate CVD risk were enrolled to VIPVIZA and randomized 1:1 to an intervention (n=1749) or control group (n=1783 who received no pictorial or other information). Preventive measures were managed within primary health care.At baseline, clinical risk factors were measured and carotid ultrasound examination was performed. The prevalence of subclinical atherosclerotic disease was assessed as intima media thickness and presence of plaque. The association between clinical risk factors and measures of subclinical atherosclerosis was investigated. In addition to conventional risk factor-based risk evaluation, the impact of the VIPVIZA intervention on CVD risk, traditional risk factors and pharmacological treatment was evaluated after 1 and 3 years. Individual interviews were conducted with 15 GPs to explore how a pictorial representation of subclinical atherosclerosis affects physicians in their perception and communication of CVD risk. The interviews were analyzed by qualitative content analysis.The plaque prevalence was 44.7% in this population. Clinical risk factors explained more of the variation in a combined ultrasound measurement than single measurements. The results up to three years showed a VIPVIZA intervention effect, with lower and sustained CVD risk in the intervention as compared to the control group. The effect was partly mediated by differences in intake of lipid-lowering medication and partly by lifestyle behaviour. The GPs described their risk assessment and patients’ risk perception as more accurate with the VIPVIZA intervention. Informing patients about examination results prior to a consultation can facilitate shared decision-making and enhance adherence to preventive measures.The results show that the VIPVIZA intervention reduces CVD risk over three years. In the long run this has the potential to reduce the incidence of CVD events.
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| 8. |
- Brännholm Syrjälä, Maria, et al.
(author)
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Health effects of reduced occupational sedentary behaviour in type 2 diabetes using a mobile health intervention : a study protocol for a 12-month randomized controlled trial—the ROSEBUD study
- 2022
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In: Trials. - : BioMed Central. - 1745-6215. ; 23:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Short-term trials conducted in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) showed that reducing sedentary behaviour by performing regular short bouts of light-intensity physical activity enhances health. Moreover, support for reducing sedentary behaviour may be provided at a low cost via mobile health technology (mHealth). There are a wide range of mHealth solutions available including SMS text message reminders and activity trackers that monitor the physical activity level and notify the user of prolonged sitting periods. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of a mHealth intervention on sedentary behaviour and physical activity and the associated changes in health in adults with T2DM.Methods: A dual-arm, 12-month, randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted within a nationwide Swedish collaboration for diabetes research in primary health care. Individuals with T2DM (n = 142) and mainly sedentary work will be recruited across primary health care centres in five regions in Sweden. Participants will be randomized (1:1) into two groups. A mHealth intervention group who will receive an activity tracker wristband (Garmin Vivofit4), regular SMS text message reminders, and counselling with a diabetes specialist nurse, or a comparator group who will receive counselling with a diabetes specialist nurse only. The primary outcomes are device-measured total sitting time and total number of steps (activPAL3). The secondary outcomes are fatigue, health-related quality of life and musculoskeletal problems (self-reported questionnaires), number of sick leave days (diaries), diabetes medications (clinical record review) and cardiometabolic biomarkers including waist circumference, mean blood pressure, HbA1c, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides.Discussion: Successful interventions to increase physical activity among those with T2DM have been costly and long-term effectiveness remains uncertain. The use of mHealth technologies such as activity trackers and SMS text reminders may increase awareness of prolonged sedentary behaviour and encourage increase in regular physical activity. mHealth may, therefore, provide a valuable and novel tool to improve health outcomes and clinical management in those with T2DM. This 12-month RCT will evaluate longer-term effects of a mHealth intervention suitable for real-world primary health care settings.
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| 9. |
- Ekström, Nils, et al.
(author)
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Aspirin treatment and risk of first incident cardiovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes : an observational study from the Swedish National Diabetes Register
- 2013
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In: BMJ Open. - : BMJ Publishing Group. - 2044-6055. ; 3:4, s. e002688-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives To investigate the benefits and risks associated with aspirin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes and no previous cardiovascular disease (CVD) in clinical practice. Design Population-based cohort study between 2005 and 2009, mean follow-up 3.9years. Setting Hospital outpatient clinics and primary care in Sweden. Participants Men and women with type 2 diabetes, free from CVD, including atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure, at baseline, registered in the Swedish National Diabetes Register, with continuous low-dose aspirin treatment (n=4608) or no aspirin treatment (n=14038). Main outcome measures Risks of CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, mortality and bleedings, associated with aspirin compared with no aspirin, were analysed in all patients and in subgroups by gender and estimated cardiovascular risk. Propensity scores were used to adjust for several baseline risk factors and characteristics at Cox regression, and the effect of unknown covariates was evaluated in a sensitivity analysis. Results There was no association between aspirin use and beneficial effects on risks of CVD or death. Rather, there was an increased risk of non-fatal/fatal CHD associated with aspirin; HR 1.19 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.41), p=0.04. The increased risk of cardiovascular outcomes associated with aspirin was seen when analysing women separately; HR 1.41 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.87), p=0.02, and HR 1.28 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.61), p=0.04, for CHD and CVD, respectively, but not for men separately. There was a trend towards increased risk of a composite of bleedings associated with aspirin, n=157; HR 1.41 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.99). Conclusions The results support the trend towards more restrictive use of aspirin in patients with type 2 diabetes and no previous CVD. More research is needed to explore the differences in aspirin's effects in women and men.
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| 10. |
- Feldman, Adina L, et al.
(author)
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Change in lifestyle behaviors and diabetes risk : evidence from a population-based cohort study with 10 year follow-up
- 2017
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In: International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1479-5868. ; 14
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Promoting positive changes in lifestyle behavior in the whole population may be a feasible and effective approach to reducing type 2 diabetes burden, but the impact of population shifts of modifiable risk factors remains unclear. Currently most of the evidence on modifiable lifestyle behavior and type 2 diabetes risk on a population level comes from studies of between-individual differences. The objective of the study was to investigate the association and potential impact on disease burden for within-individual change in lifestyle behavior and diabetes risk.METHODS: Population-based prospective cohort study of 35,680 participants aged 30-50 at baseline in 1990-2003 in Västerbotten County, Sweden (follow-up until 2013). Five self-reported modifiable lifestyle behaviors (tobacco use, physical activity, alcohol intake, dietary fiber intake and dietary fat intake) were measured at baseline and 10 year follow-up. Lifestyle behaviors were studied separately, and combined in a score. Incident diabetes was detected by oral glucose tolerance tests. Multivariate logistic regression models and population attributable fractions (PAF) were used to analyze the association between change in lifestyle behavior between baseline and 10 year follow-up, and risk of incident diabetes.RESULTS: Incident diabetes was detected in 1,184 (3.3%) participants at 10 year follow-up. There was a reduced diabetes risk associated with increase in dietary fiber intake, odds ratio (OR) 0.79 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66, 0.96) for increase of at least one unit standard deviation (3.0 g/1,000 kcal) of the baseline distribution, PAF 16.0% (95% CI 4.2, 26.4%). Increase in the lifestyle behavior score was associated with reduced diabetes risk, OR 0.92 (95% CI 0.85, 0.99) per unit increase of the score.CONCLUSIONS: These results support a causal link between lifestyle behavior and type 2 diabetes incidence. A small shift in lifestyle behaviors, in particular intake of dietary fiber, has the potential to reduce diabetes burden in the population and might be a suitable target for public health intervention.
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| 11. |
- Feldman, Adina L, et al.
(author)
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Impact of weight maintenance and loss on diabetes risk and burden : a population-based study in 33,184 participants
- 2017
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In: BMC Public Health. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2458. ; 17
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Weight loss in individuals at high risk of diabetes is an effective prevention method and a major component of the currently prevailing diabetes prevention strategies. The aim of the present study was to investigate the public health potential for diabetes prevention of weight maintenance or moderate weight loss on a population level in an observational cohort with repeated measurements of weight and diabetes status.METHODS: Height, weight and diabetes status were objectively measured at baseline and 10 year follow-up in a population-based cohort of 33,184 participants aged 30-60 years between 1990 and 2013 in Västerbotten County, Sweden. The association between risk of incident diabetes and change in BMI or relative weight was modelled using multivariate logistic regression. Population attributable fractions (PAF) were used to assess population impact of shift in weight.RESULTS: Mean (SD) BMI at baseline was 25.0 (3.6) kg/m(2). Increase in relative weight between baseline and follow-up was linearly associated with incident diabetes risk, odds ratio (OR) 1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.06) per 1% change in weight. Compared to weight maintenance (±1.0 kg/m(2)), weight gain of > +1.0 kg/m(2) was associated with an increased risk of incident diabetes, OR 1.52 (95% CI 1.32, 1.74), representing a PAF of 21.9% (95% CI 15.8, 27.6%). For moderate weight loss (-1.0 to -2.0 kg/m(2)) the OR was 0.72 (95% CI 0.52, 0.99).CONCLUSIONS: Weight maintenance in adulthood is strongly associated with reduced incident diabetes risk and there is considerable potential for diabetes prevention in promoting this as a whole population strategy.
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| 12. |
- Feldman, Adina L., et al.
(author)
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Screening for type 2 diabetes : do screen-detected cases fare better?
- 2017
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In: Diabetologia. - New York : Springer. - 0012-186X .- 1432-0428. ; 60:11, s. 2200-2209
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: We aimed to investigate whether diabetes cases detected through screening have better health outcomes than clinically detected cases in a population-based cohort of adults who were eligible to be screened for diabetes at 10 year intervals.METHODS: The Västerbotten Intervention Programme is a community- and individual-based public health programme in Västerbotten County, Sweden. Residents are invited to clinical examinations that include screening for diabetes by OGTTs at age 30, 40, 50 and 60 years (individuals eligible for screening, n = 142,037). Between 1992 and 2013, we identified 1024 screen-detected cases and 8642 clinically detected cases of diabetes using registry data. Clinically detected individuals were either prior screening participants (n = 4506) or people who did not participate in screening (non-participants, n = 4136). Study individuals with diabetes were followed from date of detection until end of follow-up, emigration, death or incident cardiovascular disease (CVD), renal disease or retinopathy event, and compared using Cox proportional hazard regression adjusted for calendar time, age at detection, year of detection, sex and socioeconomic status.RESULTS: The average age at diabetes diagnosis was 4.6 years lower for screen-detected individuals compared with clinically detected individuals. Overall, those who were clinically detected had worse health outcomes than those who were screen-detected (HR for all-cause mortality 2.07 [95% CI 1.63, 2.62]). Compared with screen-detected study individuals, all-cause mortality was higher for clinically detected individuals who were screening non-participants (HR 2.31 [95% CI 1.82, 2.94]) than for those clinically detected who were prior screening participants (HR 1.70 [95% CI 1.32, 2.18]). Estimates followed a similar pattern for CVD, renal disease and retinopathy.CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Individuals with screen-detected diabetes were diagnosed earlier and appeared to fare better than those who were clinically detected with regard to all-cause mortality, CVD, renal disease and retinopathy. How much of these associations can be explained by earlier treatment because of screening rather than healthy user bias, lead time bias and length time bias warrants further investigation.
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| 13. |
- Fhärm, Eva, 1955-, et al.
(author)
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Guidelines improve general trend of lowered cholesterol levels in type 2 diabetes patients in spite of low adherence
- 2008
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Public Health. - : SAGE. - 1403-4948 .- 1651-1905. ; 36:1, s. 69-75
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: New guidelines were introduced in Sweden in 1999 to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among diabetes patients. The impact of the new guidelines on lipid levels in a diabetes patient population has not been extensively studied. Our aim was to study whether the introduction of treatment goals for dyslipidaemia was reflected in lower cholesterol levels in patients with diabetes in a general population. Methods: In a population of 59,338 individuals, 971 (1.6%) had diabetes. All subjects were 40, 50 or 60 years of age and participated in the Vasterbotten Intervention Programme in 1995-2004. Cholesterol levels and use of lipid-lowering drugs were measured, and trends in cholesterol levels were analysed before and after the guidelines were introduced in 1999. Results: In this effectiveness study, there was a marked decrease in mean plasma total cholesterol levels among patients with diabetes (5.79 (± 1.21) mmol/1 in 1995-1999 and 5.07 (± 1.00) mmol/1 in 2000-2004 (p<0.001)) as well as in the non-diabetic population (5.79 (±1.15) mmol/1 and 5.41 (±1.07) mmol/1 (p<0.001)). The trend in diabetes patients was influenced by increased use of lipid-lowering agents, even though only 25.3% (male/female 26.8%/23.2%) of the diabetes patients received lipid-lowering treatment after the introduction of the new guidelines. Conclusions: Since the introduction of the guidelines, an increasing number of diabetes patients are receiving lipid-lowering drugs, which enhance a strong general trend of lowered cholesterol levels. Yet, the vast majority of diabetes patients with hypercholesterolaemia still do not receive medical treatment in accordance with the guidelines.
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| 14. |
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| 15. |
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| 16. |
- Fhärm, Eva, 1955-, et al.
(author)
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Time trends in absolute and modifiable CHD risk in type 2 diabetes patients in the Swedish national diabetes register (NDR) 2003–2008
- 2012
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In: Diabetic Medicine. - Malde, USA : Wiley-Blackwell. - 0742-3071 .- 1464-5491. ; 29:2, s. 198-206
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Aims: The aim was to evaluate treatment goal achievements early in the course of Type 2 diabetes, and their effect on 10-year risk of coronary heart disease in patients receiving usual care. Methods: Assessment of risk factor control 3 years after diagnosis in patients with Type 2 diabetes with no previous coronary heart disease included from the Swedish National Diabetes Register; a total of 19 382 patients (mean age 58 years) in cross-sectional surveys from 2003 to 2008, and a subgroup of 4293 patients followed individually from year of diagnosis to follow-up after a mean 2.6 years. Estimation of absolute 10-year risk of coronary heart disease using the UK Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine, and modifiable 10-year risk defined as percentage excess risk above patients with normal risk factor values. Results: Treatment goals for HbA1c, blood pressure, total and LDL cholesterol were achieved in 78.4, 65.5, 55.6% and 61.0%, respectively, in the cross-sectional survey in 2008, following a trend of generally improved control. In the individually followed patients in the subgroup, mean absolute 10-year coronary heart disease risk increased from 13.7% (men/women 16.9/9.5%) to 14.2 (men/women 17.6/9.6%) (P < 0.001) from year of diagnosis to follow-up after 2.6 years, while mean modifiable risk decreased from 37.7% (men/women 28.6/49.9%) to 19.1% (13.2/26.9%) (P < 0.001 in all). Conclusions: A high achievement of treatment goals and a low mean modifiable 10-year coronary heart disease risk was found at the 3-year follow-up, both in the cross-sectional survey in 2008 and in patients individually followed since diagnosis. This indicates the feasibility and significance of early multifactorial risk factor treatment.
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| 17. |
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| 18. |
- Granlund, Lena E., 1960-, et al.
(author)
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Vitamin D status was not associated with anxiety, depression, or health-related quality of life in Middle Eastern and African-born immigrants in Sweden
- 2020
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In: Nutrition Research. - : Elsevier. - 0271-5317 .- 1879-0739. ; 75, s. 109-118
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Active vitamin D is a neurosteroid that may modulate brain function. Associations between vitamin D deficiency and depression and anxiety have been demonstrated. We hypothesized that there was an association between anxiety, depression, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and vitamin D status. To test this hypothesis, we examined the association between anxiety, depression, and HRQOL and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentrations in the Middle Eastern and African-born immigrant population. All immigrants aged 25-65 years, born in 9 African or Middle Eastern countries, and living in 3 districts in Umea (n = 1306) were invited, with 195 English- or Swedish-speaking immigrants (104 men and 91 women) participated. Anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. HRQOL was measured using EuroQoL-5 Dimension 3 Level Questionnaire and EuroQoL Visual Analogue Scale. Serum 25(OH)D was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Associations were determined using logistic and linear regression. Analyses were adjusted for sex, age, origin, socioeconomic factors, lifestyle, chronic diseases, and obesity. In total, 71% had 25(OH)D less than 50 nmol/ L and 11% had 25(OH)D less than 25 nmol/L. Anxiety, depression, and HRQOL were not associated with 25(OH)D in the immigrant population. Anxiety was common in female immigrants from the Middle East (32.7%); and after adjustment, lower 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with higher risk of anxiety (25[OH]D <= 49 nmol/L vs 25[OH] D >= 50 nmol/L: odds ratio 23.2 [95% confidence interval 1.97 - 271.9] P = .012) in this subgroup only; however, reverse causality could not be excluded. In conclusion, the study showed no association between depression, anxiety, or HRQOL and vitamin D status in the immigrant population.
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| 19. |
- Granlund, Lena, et al.
(author)
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Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its association with nutrition, travelling and clothing habits in an immigrant population in Northern Sweden
- 2016
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In: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0954-3007 .- 1476-5640. ; 70:3, s. 373-379
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES: To study prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency in immigrants from Africa and the Middle East living in Umeå, Sweden.DESIGN: Cross-sectional population based.SETTING: Umeå, Sweden (63° N).SUBJECTS/METHODS: Immigrants aged 25-65 years from nine countries in Africa or the Middle East (n=1306) were invited. A total of 111 men and 106 women (16.5%) completed the study. S-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 was measured with HPLC. Anthropometry, medical, socioeconomic and lifestyle data were registered.RESULTS: Vitamin D status was insufficient or deficient in 73% of the participants. Specifically, 12% had vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D3<25 nmol/l), and only 3.7% had optimal vitamin D status (25(OH)D3 75-125 nmol/l). Mean 25(OH)D3 level was 41.0 nmol/l (±16.6) with no difference between sexes. Levels of 25(OH)D3 were lower (P=0.030) and vitamin D deficiency was twice as common in immigrants from Africa compared with those from the Middle East. In the multiple regression analysis, vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with low fatty fish intake (OR 4.31, 95% CI 1.61-11.55), not travelling abroad (OR 3.76, 95% CI 1.18-11.96) and wearing long-sleeved clothes in summer (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.09-9.12).CONCLUSIONS: The majority of immigrants from Africa and the Middle East who live in northern Sweden have vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. Our results are consistent with sun exposure and a diet with high intake of fatty fish being most important in avoiding vitamin D deficiency.
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| 20. |
- Granlund, Lena, 1960-
(author)
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Vitamin D deficiency in Northern Sweden : a cross-sectional study of an immigrant population at latitude 63° N, including an open partially randomized, controlled trial studying the effect of supplementation with different doses of cholecalciferol
- 2018
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Background: Vitamin D is a prohormone that plays a key role in the calcium and phosphate balance and has physiological functions throughout the entire body. Vitamin D is supplied by exposure to ultraviolet light or by food. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in immigrants in Northern Sweden was unknown. There was no consensus on how to define or treat vitamin D deficiency and no pure preparations of cholecalciferol available in Sweden.Aims: To study the prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency in immigrants of African and Middle Eastern origin, to examine associations between vitamin D status and muscle strength, anxiety, depression and quality of life, and to determine the effect of supplementation with cholecalciferol on 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D] and vitamin D status.Methods: 1. A cross-sectional, population-based study. Immigrants ages 25-65 from Africa and the Middle East (n=1306) living in Umeå, Sweden, were invited to participate. A total of 111 men and 106 women (16.5%) participated. 25(OH)D was measured by LC-MsMs. Anthropometry, medical, socioeconomic and lifestyle data was registered. Examinations: lower limb muscle strength, grip strength, HAD, health-related quality of life (QoL) 2. An open, partially randomized, controlled trial including immigrants from Africa or the Middle East, 192 subjects screened, 160 included and 147 completed the study. Intervention: cholecalciferol 12±2 weeks, 4 parallel groups; Group 1: 25(OH)D <25nmol/L: 10000 IU/d, Groups 2a and 2b: 25(OH)D 25-49 nmol/L: 2000 IU/d or 2000 IU/w, Group 3: 25(OH)D 50-74 nmol/L: 2000 IU/d.Results: Twelve percent of the immigrants showed a vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D ˂25 nmol/L) and 73 % showed 25(OH)D ˂50 nmol/L. Vitamin D deficiency was twice as common in African immigrants as in the Middle Eastern group. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with intake of fatty fish less than once a week, absence of travel abroad and use of long-sleeved clothing in summer. Lower limb muscle strength was associated with 25(OH)D levels and weaker grip strength was associated with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency was not associated with anxiety, depression or QoL in the total immigrant population. In Middle Eastern women, in whom prevalence of anxiety was higher, anxiety was associated with 25(OH)D ≤49 nmol/L. Oral cholecalciferol was effective in increasing 25(OH)D. At study end, 100% in Group 1, 89% in Group 2a, 55% in Group 2b and 96% in Group 3 reached adequate vitamin D status (25(OH)D ˃50 nmol/L). In Group 1; 62 % reached 25(OH)D ≥125 nmol/L.Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was common in the immigrant group and no difference was shown between men and women. A diet including a high intake of fatty fish was most important in avoiding vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D status was associated with muscle strength in all immigrants. Vitamin D deficiency was not associated with anxiety, depression or QoL in the immigrants. In female immigrants from the Middle East, anxiety was associated with 25(OH)D levels ≤49 nmol/L. Supplementation with cholecalciferol 2000 IU/day for three months was safe in healthy individuals with initial 25(OH)D 25-49 nmol/L, but monitoring is warranted since 11 % did not attain sufficient vitamin D status. The dose 10 000 IU/day in patients with initial 25(OH)D <25 nmol/L was unnecessarily high.
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| 21. |
- Granlund, Lena, 1960-, et al.
(author)
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Vitamin D is associated with lower limb muscle strength and grip strength in Middle Eastern- and African-born immigrants in Sweden
- 2018
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In: Nutrition Research. - : Elsevier. - 0271-5317 .- 1879-0739. ; 59, s. 29-35
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- There is increasing evidence that vitamin D status is associated with muscle function. Vitamin D deficiency is common in immigrants. We hypothesized that there was a positive association between vitamin D status and muscle strength in immigrants. The aim of this study was to examine associations between vitamin D status and muscle strength in an immigrant population in Sweden. All immigrants aged 25-65 years, born in 9 African or Middle East countries, and living in a district in Umeå (n = 1306) were invited. A total of 111 men and 105 women (16.5%) completed the study. Lower limb muscle strength was examined using a standardized muscle function indices of muscle strength. Grip strength was examined using a JAMAR hand dynamometer. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The analyses were adjusted for sex, age, height, body mass index, years since immigration, 25(OH)D, vitamin D deficiency, physical activity, and medical and socioeconomic factors. Twelve percent of the immigrants had vitamin D deficiency [25(OH)D levels <25 nmol/L]. In multivariable analyses, reduced lower limb muscle strength remained linearly associated with lower 25(OH)D concentrations (P = .008) and weaker grip strength remained associated with vitamin D deficiency (P = .022) after adjustments. The association between vitamin D deficiency and reduced lower limb muscle strength did not reach statistical significance (P = .052). The results demonstrate that vitamin D deficiency and low 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with muscle weakness in immigrants.
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| 22. |
- Johansson, Magdalena, et al.
(author)
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Fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, and the risk of first-time venous thromboembolism. A report from the VEINS cohort study
- 2018
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In: Thrombosis Research. - : Elsevier. - 0049-3848 .- 1879-2472. ; 165, s. 86-94
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: It remains unclear whether high plasma glucose levels are associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE). This study investigated the association between fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (two-hour post-load plasma glucose (2HPG)), diabetes, and VTE. Materials and methods: The population-based, prospective Venous thromboEmbolism In Northern Sweden (VEINS) cohort study included 108,025 residents of Vasterbotten County in northern Sweden. The participants were aged 30 to 60 years and had no previous VTE events. They were included from 1985 onwards and were followed until a VTE event, death, emigration, or the study end on September 5, 2014. All underwent a health examination that measured weight, height, FPG, and 2HPG and included a questionnaire regarding smoking, education level, and history of diabetes. Potential VTE events were identified by an extensive diagnosis registry search and were validated by reviewing medical records and radiology reports. Results: An objectively verified first-time VTE event was experienced by 2054 participants during 1,496,669 person-years of follow-up. In univariable analysis, there were associations between FPG, 2HPG, diabetes, and the risk of VTE. These associations disappeared after adjustment for potential confounders (age, sex, body mass index, cancer at inclusion, education level, smoking, and hypertension). The adjusted hazard ratios were 1.01 (95% confidence interval 0.83-1.23) for diabetes, 1.01 for each standard deviation of FPG (95% confidence interval 0.97-1.05), and 0.96 for each standard deviation of 2HPG (95% confidence interval 0.91-1.00). Conclusions: There were no independent associations between FPG, 2HPG, diabetes, and future risk of VTE.
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| 23. |
- Long, G H, et al.
(author)
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Healthy behaviours and 10-year incidence of diabetes : a population cohort study
- 2015
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In: Preventive Medicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 0091-7435 .- 1096-0260. ; 71, s. 121-127
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between meeting behavioural goals and diabetes incidence over 10years in a large, representative Swedish population.METHODS: Population-based prospective cohort study of 32,120 individuals aged 35 to 55years participating in a health promotion intervention in Västerbotten County, Sweden (1990 to 2013). Participants underwent an oral glucose tolerance test, clinical measures, and completed diet and activity questionnaires. Poisson regression quantified the association between achieving six behavioural goals at baseline - body mass index (BMI) <25kg/m(2), moderate physical activity, non-smoker, fat intake <30% of energy, fibre intake ≥15g/4184kJ and alcohol intake ≤20g/day - and diabetes incidence over 10years.RESULTS: Median interquartile range (IQR) follow-up time was 9.9 (0.3) years; 2211 individuals (7%) developed diabetes. Only 4.4% of participants met all 6 goals (n=1245) and compared to these individuals, participants meeting 0/1 goals had a 3.74 times higher diabetes incidence (95% confidence interval (CI)=2.50 to 5.59), adjusting for sex, age, calendar period, education, family history of diabetes, history of myocardial infarction and long-term illness. If everyone achieved at least four behavioural goals, 14.1% (95% CI: 11.7 to 16.5%) of incident diabetes cases might be avoided.CONCLUSION: Interventions promoting the achievement of behavioural goals in the general population could significantly reduce diabetes incidence.
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| 24. |
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| 25. |
- Näslund, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Visualization of asymptomatic atherosclerotic disease for optimum cardiovascular prevention (VIPVIZA) : a pragmatic, open-label, randomised controlled trial
- 2019
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In: The Lancet. - : Elsevier. - 0140-6736 .- 1474-547X. ; 393:10167, s. 133-142
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease often fails because of poor adherence among practitioners and individuals to prevention guidelines. We aimed to investigate whether ultrasound-based pictorial information about subclinical carotid atherosclerosis, targeting both primary care physicians and individuals, improves prevention.METHODS: Visualization of asymptomatic atherosclerotic disease for optimum cardiovascular prevention (VIPVIZA) is a pragmatic, open-label, randomised controlled trial that was integrated within the Västerbotten Intervention Programme, an ongoing population-based cardiovascular disease prevention programme in northern Sweden. Individuals aged 40, 50, or 60 years with one or more conventional risk factors were eligible to participate. Participants underwent clinical examination, blood sampling, and ultrasound assessment of carotid intima media wall thickness and plaque formation. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 with a computer-generated randomisation list to an intervention group (pictorial representation of carotid ultrasound plus a nurse phone call to confirm understanding) or a control group (not informed). The primary outcomes, Framingham risk score (FRS) and European systematic coronary risk evaluation (SCORE), were assessed after 1 year among participants who were followed up. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01849575.FINDINGS: 3532 individuals were enrolled between April 29, 2013, and June 7, 2016, of which 1783 were randomly assigned to the control group and 1749 were assigned to the intervention group. 3175 participants completed the 1-year follow-up. At the 1-year follow-up, FRS and SCORE differed significantly between groups (FRS 1·07 [95% CI 0·11 to 2·03, p=0·0017] and SCORE 0·16 [0·02 to 0·30, p=0·0010]). FRS decreased from baseline to the 1-year follow-up in the intervention group and increased in the control group (-0·58 [95% CI -0·86 to -0·30] vs 0·35 [0·08 to 0·63]). SCORE increased in both groups (0·13 [95% CI 0·09 to 0·18] vs 0·27 [0·23 to 0·30]).INTERPRETATION: This study provides evidence of the contributory role of pictorial presentation of silent atherosclerosis for prevention of cardiovascular disease. It supports further development of methods to reduce the major problem of low adherence to medication and lifestyle modification.
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| 26. |
- Sluik, Diewertje, et al.
(author)
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Lifestyle factors and mortality risk in individuals with diabetes mellitus: are the associations different from those in individuals without diabetes?
- 2014
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In: Diabetologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1432-0428 .- 0012-186X. ; 57:1, s. 63-72
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims/hypothesis Thus far, it is unclear whether lifestyle recommendations for people with diabetes should be different from those for the general public. We investigated whether the associations between lifestyle factors and mortality risk differ between individuals with and without diabetes. Methods Within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), a cohort was formed of 6,384 persons with diabetes and 258,911 EPIC participants without known diabetes. Joint Cox proportional hazard regression models of people with and without diabetes were built for the following lifestyle factors in relation to overall mortality risk: BMI, waist/height ratio, 26 food groups, alcohol consumption, leisure-time physical activity, smoking. Likelihood ratio tests for heterogeneity assessed statistical differences in regression coefficients. Results Multivariable adjusted mortality risk among individuals with diabetes compared with those without was increased, with an HR of 1.62 (95% CI 1.51, 1.75). Intake of fruit, legumes, nuts, seeds, pasta, poultry and vegetable oil was related to a lower mortality risk, and intake of butter and margarine was related to an increased mortality risk. These associations were significantly different in magnitude from those in diabetes-free individuals, but directions were similar. No differences between people with and without diabetes were detected for the other lifestyle factors. Conclusions/interpretation Diabetes status did not substantially influence the associations between lifestyle and mortality risk. People with diabetes may benefit more from a healthy diet, but the directions of association were similar. Thus, our study suggests that lifestyle advice with respect to mortality for patients with diabetes should not differ from recommendations for the general population.
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| 27. |
- Syrjälä, Maria B., et al.
(author)
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Reducing occupational sitting time in adults with type 2 diabetes : Qualitative experiences of an office-adapted mHealth intervention
- 2021
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In: Diabetic Medicine. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 0742-3071 .- 1464-5491. ; 38:6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aim: Understanding barriers and facilitators for limiting occupational sitting and what impact it has on health on those with type 2 diabetes is essential for future trials and intervention development in primary healthcare settings. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention using mobile health (mHealth) technology, together with counselling by a diabetes specialist nurse, to reduce occupational sitting in adults with type 2 diabetes.Methods: Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted in 15 participants with type 2 diabetes who completed a 3-month intervention including mHealth; activity tracker (Garmin Vivofit3) and SMS reminders, one initial face-to-face patient-centred counselling session and three telephone follow-up calls by a diabetes specialist nurse within the primary healthcare system in Sweden. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis.Results: Two themes were identified: (1) 'From baby steps to milestones' reflecting three categories; 'Small changes make it easier to reduce sitting', 'Encouraged by trustworthy coaching', 'Physical and mental rewards matter' and (2) 'Tailoring strategies that fit me and my workplace' reflecting four categories; 'It's up to me', 'Taking advantage of the support', 'Using creativity to find practical solutions for interrupting sitting' and 'Living up to expectations'.Conclusion: The intervention was perceived as feasible and acceptable in different office workplaces, and led to increased awareness of sedentary behaviour in adults with type 2 diabetes. Stepwise goal setting together with personalization of the mHealth intervention should be emphasized in individual type 2 diabetes programmes aiming to reduce workplace sitting.
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