Medicina
-
Review
Do antihypertensive drugs combinations in single-pill combination improve cardiovascular outcomes?
Recommendations and guidelines propose to combine antihypertensive drugs to improve BP control, highlighting the advantages of single-pill combinations (SPCs) to improve treatment adherence. It is speculated that, compared with free-dose combinations (Free-DCs), SPC should achieve a reduction in cardiovascular (CV) events and mortality through better adherence and BP control. However, there is little information in this regard. ⋯ Medication adherence was higher with SPCs, but outcomes were not adjusted for the adherence / persistence. When groups were compared according to similar adherence degrees, the statistical significance in favor of SPCs disappeared. Thus, randomized controlled studies are necessary to evaluate if SPCs have any effect beyond the improvement of the adherence to hypertensive treatment.
-
Review
[Changes in the microbiota due to ultra-processed foods: obesity, cancer and premature death].
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations that are ubiquitous in every home and supermarket aisle. This food group includes snacks, soft drinks, ready-to-eat products like pizzas, nuggets, burger till commercial breads. Multiple long cohort studies have shown a relationship between their consumption and the rise in the incidence of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, colorectal cancer and all-cause mortality. ⋯ The intestinal microbiota would play a central role as a trigger of metabolic inflammation (metainflammation). We need to reduce consumption of UPFs and promote healthier and accessible eating habits. Official public policies are needed.