Epidemiology Studies of Cardiovascular Diseases in Older Adults

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Epidemiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 2945

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Guest Editor
Geriatric Medical Center Shmuel Harofe, University of Tel Aviv, Rishon Le Zion, Israel
Interests: geriatric medicine; infections in elderly; polypharmacy; interventions in elderly
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Research in epidemiology related to cardiovascular diseases in older adults is essential for understanding the burden of these conditions and implementing effective prevention strategies. As individuals age, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease increases significantly. Epidemiological studies have revealed that aging itself is a major risk factor for cardiovascular issues, often compounded by other age-related health challenges.

Studies have identified various modifiable risk factors that contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases in older adults. These risk factors include hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, smoking, physical inactivity and poor dietary habits. Addressing these risk factors even in the elderly through lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, smoking cessation and medication management, can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of cardiovascular diseases in older populations.

Furthermore, epidemiological research emphasizes the importance of early detection, timely intervention and continuous monitoring of cardiovascular health in older adults. By promoting awareness, screening programs and access to quality healthcare services, efforts can be made to improve cardiovascular outcomes and the quality of life for older individuals. Overall, epidemiological studies provide a foundation for evidence-based practices and policies aimed at preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases in the aging population.

Dr. Nadya Kagansky
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • cardiovascular diseases in older adults
  • gerontology
  • hypertension
  • hyperlipidemia
  • diabetes
  • obesity

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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19 pages, 499 KiB  
Article
Physical Inactivity and Cardiovascular Health in Aging Populations: Epidemiological Evidence and Policy Implications from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
by Abdulaziz M. Alodhialah, Ashwaq A. Almutairi and Mohammed Almutairi
Life 2025, 15(3), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030347 - 23 Feb 2025
Viewed by 674
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, particularly among older adults. Physical inactivity, a modifiable risk factor, is strongly associated with the development and progression of CVD through its correlation with hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. This [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, particularly among older adults. Physical inactivity, a modifiable risk factor, is strongly associated with the development and progression of CVD through its correlation with hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. This study examines the association between physical inactivity and cardiovascular health among older adults in the Riyadh region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 168 participants aged 60 years and older attending a tertiary hospital in Riyadh. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), anthropometric measurements, and medical record reviews. Cardiovascular health indicators and risk factors were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Participants with low physical activity levels had a higher prevalence of hypertension (78.2%), diabetes (64.4%), and obesity (51.3%) compared to those with high activity levels (41.8%, 28.7%, and 22.3%, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that physical inactivity was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of CVD (adjusted OR: 1.98, p < 0.001), with hypertension and diabetes also being strong predictors. Conclusions: Physical inactivity is strongly correlated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes in older adults. Interventions targeting increased physical activity are essential to reducing the CVD burden. Community-based programs and policy-driven initiatives tailored to the Riyadh region’s specific environmental and cultural factors are crucial in promoting active lifestyles among aging populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology Studies of Cardiovascular Diseases in Older Adults)
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19 pages, 612 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Lifestyle Modifications on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Older Adults: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study
by Mohammed Almutairi, Ashwaq A. Almutairi and Abdulaziz M. Alodhialah
Life 2025, 15(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15010087 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1863
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults. Lifestyle modifications, including diet, physical activity, and smoking cessation, are key to reducing cardiovascular risk. This study examines the combined effects of these behaviors on cardiovascular outcomes and [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults. Lifestyle modifications, including diet, physical activity, and smoking cessation, are key to reducing cardiovascular risk. This study examines the combined effects of these behaviors on cardiovascular outcomes and their mediating mechanisms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data on dietary quality, physical activity, and smoking status were collected using validated questionnaires. Cardiovascular outcomes, including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and body mass index (BMI), were measured. A composite cardiovascular risk score was computed. Path analysis was employed to assess direct and indirect effects of lifestyle factors on cardiovascular outcomes. Results: Participants adhering to a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking had significantly lower composite cardiovascular risk scores. Non-smoking status showed the strongest direct effect (β = −0.20, p = 0.006), while dietary quality and physical activity exhibited significant indirect effects mediated by LDL, SBP, and BMI. Combined adherence to multiple healthy behaviors resulted in the greatest reductions in cardiovascular risk. The path analysis highlighted dietary quality and physical activity as critical mediators of cardiovascular health improvements. Conclusions: Lifestyle modifications significantly reduce cardiovascular risk in older adults, with cumulative benefits observed for combined adherence to healthy behaviors. These findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive lifestyle interventions targeting diet, physical activity, and smoking cessation to promote cardiovascular health in aging populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology Studies of Cardiovascular Diseases in Older Adults)
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