Traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factor profiles in young patients with coronary artery disease

Study objective: There is an increasing trend in myocardial infarction (MI) hospitalizations in young individuals. The prevalence of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors is high in this population. This study aims to assess the prevalence of traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors among young patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) including novel lipid and dietary biomarkers with a focus on potential gender differences. Design: The Young Heart study is a prospective, single-center pilot cohort study. Baseline data included medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. We also collected blood samples for lipid profile, lipoprotein (a), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). Participants: A total of 60 patients aged <60 years with CAD (on coronary CT or invasive angiogram) were included in the study. Results: The median age was 51 years and predominantly male (70 %). Baseline assessment revealed a high prevalence of hypertension (76.7 %), hyperlipidemia (91.7 %), and obstructive CAD (88.3 %). 36.7 % had diabetes, 28.3 % had prediabetes, and 38.3 % had prior MI. Uncontrolled risk factors were prevalent, including increased waist circumference (54.6 %), metabolic syndrome (60.0 %), and LDL ≥70 mg/dL (47.5 %), Lp(a) ≥75 nmol/L (47.5 %). Furthermore, 41.7 % had hsCRP ≥2 mg/L, and 28.3 % had suboptimal TMAO levels. 70.0 % of patients were on guideline-directed doses of statins. Conclusion: Young patients with CAD demonstrated a substantial burden of traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The study findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve risk factor control and optimize lifestyle behaviors. Further investigation is warranted to assess the impact of these interventions on cardiovascular outcomes.