Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction in Hypertensive Patients Over 60 Years Old: Hfpef-Hypertension Study

Objective: In recent years, due to the aging population in Western societies and the increase in obesity and hypertension, there has been an epidemiological surge in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). HFpEF significantly impacts morbidity and mortality rates. A deeper study of these patients, along with a better characterization of their clinical profiles, will help improve their management. Design and method: This ongoing study was conducted in specialized outpatient clinics for hypertensive patients. Hypertensive patients aged >60 years, with or without HFpEF symptoms, were included. Clinical data were recorded during the patient visit in the platform of the Hellenic Cardiology Society. Results: 1017 patients aged >60 years have been recorded from 10 centers, with a mean age of 74 ± 8 years. Of these patients, 345 (33.9%) presented with symptoms and signs of HFpEF. The majority of HFpEF patients were women (58.5%), and their diastolic blood pressure levels were higher compared to patients without HFpEF (SBP/DBP: 131 ± 14/74 ± 9 mmHg vs. 131 ± 16/77 ± 10 mmHg, p: 0.01). Patients with HFpEF were older (mean age: (78.3 ± 8 vs. 71.8 ± 7 kg/m2, p: 0.01), more likely to be overweight (30.1 ± 8 vs. 28.7 ± 6 kg/m2, p: 0.01), had a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease (25.4% vs. 8%), and a greater percentage had diabetes mellitus (41.5% vs. 21.4%). Additionally, 10% of HFpEF patients had been hospitalized for heart failure in the past year (vs. 0.5%). Notably, 25% of patients reported never measuring their blood pressure, and 22% (compared to 7%) were active smokers. Conclusions: This study highlights the significant prevalence and clinical burden of HFpEF in older hypertensive patients and underscores the importance of better screening, risk factor management, and targeted interventions