Cardiac Function in HFrEF Improved With Intentional Weight Loss
Intentional weight loss can substantially improve left ventricular (LV) systolic function in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), according to a new study.
The study also showed that weight loss can prevent a decline in exercise capacity and can improve LV end-diastolic volume and LV mass in patients with HFrEF.
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These findings were presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2018 on Saturday, November 10.
To reach these conclusions, Jennifer J Rayner and colleagues analyzed 37 patients with stable idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (body mass index 35±5kg/m2, left ventricular ejection fraction 41±8%) and 23 matched controls (body mass index 35±5kg/m2, left ventricular ejection fraction 65±4%).
Both groups underwent body composition analysis, quantification of abdominal visceral and hepatic fat, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for geometry and systolic function, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and a 6-minute walk test. Participants also followed a 15,000 kcal/day diet for 12 months.
The obese control group had a weight loss of -10±8%. This helped cause a reduction in LV end-diastolic volume by 6±4% and LV mass by 12±7%.
The HFrEF group had an intentional weight loss of -7±6%. Like the control group, these participants saw a reduction in LV end-diastolic volume (8±10%) and LV mass (6±9%). In addition, this group also had significant improvement in LV systolic function (absolute LVEF +8±6%).
Further, exercise capacity in HFrEF was maintained in weight loss, with the 6-minute walk test distance having increased by 28±37 m.
“Here we demonstrate in a prospective study that intentional weight loss is associated with substantial improvements in LV systolic function and prevents decline in exercise capacity,” the researchers conclude. “This suggests that weight loss may be an effective therapeutic strategy in HFrEF.”
—Colleen Murphy
Reference:
Rayner JJ, Peterzan MA, Abdesselam I, Watson WD, Neubauer S, Rider O. Intentional weight loss is associated with a significant improvement in ejection fraction in obese heart failure. Paper presented at: American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions; November 10-12, 2018; Chicago, IL. http://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/4682/presentation/52671. Accessed October 19, 2018.