Search

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most common liver disorder affecting about 25% of the global population. The causes of its development include poor diet, low physical activity, overweight, obesity, older age, diabetes, and lipid disorders. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is identified by some researchers as a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. It has been observed that patients with NAFLD have an increased risk of cardiovascular events, as well as a higher number of deaths from myocardial infarction compared to the general population., Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of 237 patients diagnosed with hepatic steatosis, treated in the Department of Geriatrics at the University Clinical Hospital in Wrocław from 2019 to 2022, focusing on coexisting overweight, obesity, and concomitant diseases. Laboratory results and the degree of left ventricular muscle hypertrophy were analyzed. Parameters assessed by echocardiography, including interventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd), left ventricular posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWd), and IVSd + LVPWd/2, were used to evaluate left ventricular hypertrophy., Results: Data from 237 patients were analyzed: 79 men (age: 77.2±7.1 years) and 158 women (age: 78.4±7.7 years). Body mass index (BMI) values for men and women were 30.5±5.0 kg/m² and 31.9±5.6 kg/m², respectively. There was a positive correlation between BMI and the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy for the parameters IVSd (ρ = 0.36, p < 0.001), LVPWd (ρ = 0.36, p < 0.001), and IVSd + LVPWd/2 (ρ = 0.38, p < 0.001)., Conclusions: The study demonstrated a moderate positive correlation between BMI and the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients diagnosed with hepatic steatosis. These findings indicate the necessity of actively searching for cardiovascular risk factors, including the evaluation of echocardiographic parameters in patients with NAFLD. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(3):223-231., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Chronic diseases (ChDs) pose an essential problem from an individual, social and economic point of view. It is estimated that they account for 60% of all deaths worldwide, and this share is expected to rise to 72% by 2020. The most prevalent are cardiovascular diseases (30%), cancers (13%), respiratory diseases (7%), and diabetes (2%). Their major risk factors include unhealthy diet, the lack of physical activity, and tobacco smoking. Of significance are also occupational and environmental hazards. Among teachers, the factor with the highest impact is noise, reported by 25% of male and 38% of female teachers. In Poland, there are no databases on ChDs or risk factors in teachers; only voice disorders are well-recognized as an occupational disease. Only a few studies of health and lifestyle were conducted among teachers in Poland, but they cannot be generalized because they were carried out with different methods, in small groups of people and in various regions in the country. A representative study carried out by Statistics Poland (GUS) among education employees (with no separate data for teachers) revealed that the most prevalent were musculoskeletal disorders, including back-pain (21.9%), as well as painfulness of the neck, shoulder, hand, hip and leg (10% in each case). Headaches and eye fatigue were found in 14.6%; stress, anxiety and depression in 7.3%; and cardiovascular disorders in 4.6% of the study population. Defining health problems in this professional group is an important public health issue which should enable reducing the prevalence and adverse health effects of ChDs. Med Pr. 2020;71(2):221-31., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Objectives: The aim of the study was the analysis of the occurrence of cardiovascular risk factors (age, sex, smoking, level of cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, body mass index) among patients diagnosed with schizophrenia as well as searching for correlations between them and length of stay at long-term care facilities and clinical variables, such as severity of positive, negative and general symptoms of schizophrenia, illness duration, and type of pharmacotherapy (neuroleptic type and its dose)., Methods: Medical data were collected from 71 patients (30 women and 41 men) aged between 40 and 86 years who were treated in the residential care facility due to paranoid schizophrenia. Information concerning patient's clinical status was collected during periodic check-ups. Theexamination consisted of standard anamnesis regarding patient's general feeling, psychiatric assessment using the PANSS and identifying number of smoked cigarettes. Somatic assessment included: physical examination, measuring blood pressure, pulse, capillary blood glucose levels, height, weight, and BMI., Results: Statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences in length of stay at long-term psychiatric care facility between patients with normal BMI vs. overweight and obese patients (p = 0.85). Study results indicate that prevalence of central obesity, hypertension, abnormal total - and LDL-cholesterol is higher in patients who stay at the long-term psychiatric care facility for a longer period of time. There is at least one cardiovascular risk factor in 74.6% of examined patients treated for schizophrenia., Conclusions: Imposing "healthy" lifestyle as part of clinical management in long-termcare setting in people treated with neuroleptics (atypical or typical) might reduce risk of body mass increase. Undertaking action towards reducing modifiable cardiovascular risk factors remains highly recommended in mental health care, particularly in long-term care.

The coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital condition of the thoracic aorta., Aim: The aim of the study was assessment of atherosclerosis risk factors in adult patients after surgical treatment of aortic coarctation., Materials and Methods: 58 patients (36 male, 22 female) at median age of 27.46 ±10.57 were compared with 30 healthy, age and sex matched volunteers. The arterial blood pressure, lipid profile, fasting glucose, inflammation markers and the lifestyle factors were analyzed., Results: CoA patients have higher systolic blood pressure 136.55±16.27 vs 123.47±10.34 mmHg, p<0.001, fasting glucose 4.95±0.5 vs 4.65±0.46 mmol/l p=0.002, hsCRP 1.03±0.12 vs 0.89±0.14 mg/l p=0.025 and fibrinogen 2.55±0.34 vs 1.98±0.28 g/l p<0.001. Hyperlipidemia is more common 44.8% vs 23.3% p=0.048, treated with statin. When comparing hypertensive patients (N=28) with normotensive ones (N=30), the patients with arterial hypertension are older 33.5±12.23 vs 25.73±7.12 p=0.004, have higher body weight 78.03±14.58 vs 68.7±14.29 p=0.017, in this group more common are: hypoplastic aortic arch 28.6% vs 6.7% p=0.027, recoarctation 39.3% vs 13.3% p=0.024, cardiovascular disease 14.3% vs 0% p=0.032 and family history 21.4% vs 3.3% p=0.034., Conclusions: The coarctation of aorta is related to higher cardiovascular risk due to arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, higher glucose and inflammation markers levels when comparing with healthy population., (© 2018 MEDPRESS.)

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the type and frequency of prevalence of cardiac symptoms in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis., Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 54 patients (21 female, 33 male), with biopsy-proven pulmonary sarcoidosis. Mean age was 45.85 +/-11.77 years. According to time passed from diagnosis of sarcoidosis patients were divided into 2 subgroups. Additionally, age, sex, left ventricular ejection fraction, cigarette smoking and comorbidities were analyzed. Course and stage of sarcoidosis were also included in the analysis., Results: The frequency of cardiovascular symptoms in the study group was 87.04%. 59.26% of patients reported chest pain, the same subjects reported dyspnoea. 48.15% of respondents reported heart palpitations, 33.33% pre-syncope states, 12.96% syncope, and 37.04% edema of lower limbs. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of analyzed symptoms, depending on the duration of lung sarcoidosis., Conclusions: Patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis who report cardiovascular symptoms require further diagnostics.

Objective: Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability in the world. A wide knowledge of risk factors for cerebrovascular diseases is one of the main elements of primary prevention, while knowledge of stroke symptoms can significantly speed up treatment and reduce negative health effects. The aim: To assess the knowledge about stroke and risk factors of cerebrovascular diseases among the inhabitants of the randomly selected rural community (in Lodz Province)., Patients and Methods: Material and methods: The study included 143 adult residents of Rzasnia. The research was carried out using a self-constructed questionnaire, prepared on the basis of available literature., Results: Results: The average score obtained from the knowledge survey on stroke was 5.79 +/- 3.47 (maximum number of points - 14). The average number of points in people with a family history of stroke was statistically significantly higher (7.46±3.31) than in those with no stroke in the family (4.20±2.98 ) (p <0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the average number of points and gender (women - 6.13±3.55 points, men - 5.64±3.55, NS) and age (R = -0.1, NS ). However, the positive correlation between educational level and the score obtained in our questionnaire was found (R =0.4, p <0.05). The average number of correctly listed risk factors was: 0.6 ± 1.6. At least one risk factor was reported by only 34% of respondents. Respondents most often mentioned: excessive alcohol consumption (18%), smoking (18%), hypertension (14%), atherosclerosis (11%). The average number of correctly listed symptoms of stroke was: 1.2±1.3. At least one symptom of stroke was reported by only 58% of respondents. The respondents most often reported: headache (29%), speech disorders (22%), gait disturbances (13%), and sensory disorders (13%). If a stroke was suspected, the majority of respondents would call an ambulance (94%)., Conclusion: Conclusions: Knowledge of the residents of the chosen rural commune about the stroke is not satisfactory and should be supplemented with an educational program that would include as many people as possible.

Objectives: The aim of the research was to assess the fatty acid content and atherogenicity of daily food rations in patients with recurrent depressive disorders in the aspect of risk of developing cardiovascular disease., Methods: The study included 126 persons (62 persons with diagnosed recurrent depressive disorders and 64 healthy volunteers). A 24-hour recall was used in the quantitative assessment of the diet. Anthropometric and chemical measurements as well as body composition analysis were used to assess the nutritional status., Results: The diets of 40% of tested women and 55% of men were atherogenic, according to an assessment using Keys'index. The proportion between the PUFA and SFA content was 0.3 (women) and 0.2 (men) with recommended values of . 1. In the group of women there were no significant correlations between the selected clinical features of the illness and components of diet and biochemical data of nutritional status. It was only observed that a higher intensity of depressive symptoms had a significantly negative effect on the glucose concentration in the women's blood. It was also observed that in the group of women suffering from depression, the total consumption of fats and cholesterol content in the food decreased with age. No statistically significant correlations between the assessed variables were observed in the group of men taking part in the study., Conclusions: The improper energy structure and the composition of the subjects' food rations may contribute to the development of the cardiovascular system diseases in the future and make it difficult to maintain mental health at the same time.

Background: Interstitial lung diseases form a group of chronic diseases associated with a significant worsening of the quality of life. Proper management of these diseases involves the recognition and treatment of comorbidities, so it implies high direct and indirect costs of therapy. The lack of epidemiological data on the total incidence of interstitial diseases in Poland, as well as of information on their increasing incidence in other European countries justify investigations into epidemiological situation in the Silesian voivodeship (the southern region of Poland)., Material and Methods: In a descriptive study registered data provided by the National Health Found in 2006-2010 were used to assess the temporal variability of standardized incidence rates. A data set included interstitial lung diseases and comorbidities in adults aged ≥ 19 years, residents of the Silesian voivodeship., Results: In the period under study standardized incidence ratios for interstitial lung disease declined from 9.7/100 000 adult population to 7.8/100 000 adult population. The most prevalent comorbidities included cardio-vascular diseases, chronic and infectious respiratory diseases, metabolic diseases and musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases. Comorbidities were found more frequently in older people ≥ 65 years, except for sarcoidosis, which was four times more prevalent in younger people (19-64 years) compared to older patients. The estimated costs of treatment of the analysed diseases reached more than 50 mln zlotys (12 mln dollars) per year., Conclusions: A small but systematic decrease in the value of the standardized incidence rate for interstitial lung disease has been shown within the range of 9.7-7.8/100 000 adult inhabitants. The most frequent comorbidities included cardiovascular or chronic and infectious respiratory diseases. The high cost of therapy of interstitial lung diseases was largely related to simultaneous treatment of comorbidities. Med Pr 2016;67(6):751-763., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a coexistence of metabolic risk factors affecting development of cardiovascular diseases. The SCORE system estimates fatal cardiovascular disease events over a ten-year period., Aim: The aim of the study was to estimate cardiovascular risk in patients with symptoms of MS., Materials and Methods: The study included 268 patients with symptoms of MS according to International Diabetes Federation criteria (2005), 136 men and 132 women, mean age 59,62±9,21 years. The cardiovascular risk was estimated on based of pulse pressure and SCORE table in these patients., Results: In subjects with MS the mean value of pulse pressure (pp) was 58,96±2,34 mmHg, increased values of pp was found in 33,21% subjects with MS. High and very high cardiovascular death risk occurred in 80,97% subjects with MS, significantly more often in men than women., Conclusions: In majority of patients with MS high cardiovascular risk was found. In every three subjects with MS high pulse pressure was stated.

Adipokines are substances secreted by white adipose tissue of auto-, para- and endocrine functions. They play part mainly in maintaining energy balance. Aging influences the profile of secreted adipokines, what is caused probably by increasing visceral fat, intensified low grade systemic inflammation (LGSI) and the change in adipocyte size. In this article we focus on some selected adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, visfatin, vaspin, omentin, chemerin and retinol binding protein 4 - RBP4) paying special attention to the impact of aging on their blood concentrations and functions. Blood concentrations of leptin, vaspin, chemerin and RBP4 increase with age. It is associated with adverse lipid profile, insulin resistance and the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, malignancies and autoimmunity. It has been proved that long-lived people have more beneficial adipokines profile i.e. low leptin and especially high adiponectin concentrations what is additionally connected with higher concentration of HDL cholesterol, lower concentrations of HbA1C hemoglobin and C-reactive protein, lower waist-to-hip ratio and fat mass. Moreoer, it seems that maintaining high adiponectin and omentin blood concentrations with low fat mass and preserved insulin sensitivity promote longevity. Furthermore, it has been proved that intensive exercises in old age lead to beneficial changes in adipokines profile, decrease in visceral fat, better insulin sensitivity and lipid profile., (© 2016 MEDPRESS.)

Osteoprotegerin is a glycoprotein contributing to the regulation of bone rebuilding. It has been documented that osteoprotegerin regulates the activity of osteoclasts by blocking the interaction between the receptor, activator nuclear factor kappa B (RANK) and its ligand (RANKL). Osteoprotegerin, by blocking the connection between RANKL and its receptor (RANK), inhibits the maturation of osteoclasts and osteoclastogenesis and because of this, it inhibits the osteolytic processes. The participation of osteoprotegerin in regulating the function of immune system cells has also been confirmed. More and more studies confirm, that osteoprotegerin is associated with cardiovascular diseases. In many studies it has been confirmed that high plasma concentration of osteoprotegerin and low concentration of TNF – related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) and high OPG/TRAIL ratio are predictors of a poor prognosis in patients with myocardial infarction. High plasma concentration and high OPG/TRAIL ratio in the acute phase of myocardial infarction are mainly prognostic indicators of adverse left ventricular remodelling and the development of postinfarction heart failure. In a group of patients with high plasma concentration of osteoprotegerin in the acute phase of myocardial infarction, it has also been established that there are a lower number of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) recruited from bone marrow and circulating in peripheral blood. Pathogenic mechanisms which involve osteoprotegerin and which are responsible for both postinfarction left ventricular remodelling and prognosis after myocardial infarction are being researched amid great excitement. This is mainly because it offers the possibility of identifying the defence mechanisms which protect the left ventricular against adverse remodelling after myocardial infarction. This would offer us the possibility of using osteoprotegerin not only as a prognostic marker in cardiovascular diseases but also as a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases. This review presents the current knowledge about this.

Objectives: Professional drivers of the public transportation are one of the occupational groups exposed to very poor working conditions. Factors such as low physical activity, irregular working hours, poor eating habits and excessive stress at work, have a negative impact on cardiovascular risk and promote the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to establish the prevalence of depression and work-related stress in a group of drivers from the RACER (Risk of Adverse Cardiovascular Events among professional dRivers in Poland - development of specific cardiovascular preventive program) study population., Methods: The prospective RACER study includes unselected professional drivers and aims to establish prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in this group. During the enrolment all subjects were asked to fill in the BDI-II. All drivers were also asked about job-related stress and had their history taken for cardiovascular risk factors., Results: Out of the subjects included into the RACER study drivers employed in the public bus transportation were selected. Analysis covered 292 consecutive drivers of public transportation buses as well as drivers of international coaches (96.6% male, mean age 48.2 ± 10.7 years). Following the BDI-II scoring subjects were categorized according to symptoms. Symptoms of depression were found in 5.8% subjects. There were no differences in populations with and without depression in terms of age and body mass index (p > 0.05). All subjects were asked "Do you find your job stressful?" The answer was affirmative in 205 (70.2%) of drivers. No significant differences were found in the prevalence of depression in drivers who found their job stressful or not, or between the drivers of international coaches and city buses., Conclusions: In professional drivers prevalence of depressive symptoms and work-related stress is relatively high. There are no clinical factors predictive of high risk for depressive disorders development. This along with cardiovascular risk associated with depression is reason for routine, psychological screening of professional drivers.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death in Poland. The prevalence of CVD risk factors is regionally differentiated. Awareness of their presence in the population is crucial for identification of high-risk patients and implementation of appropriate preventive intervention. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess the prevalence and knowledge of modifiable CVD risk factors among patients of primary health care in Malopolska., Material and Methods: The study was conducted among participants of Małopolska CArdiovascular Preventive Intervention Study (M-CAPRI). Standardized questionnaire and clinical evaluation was conducted in a total of 978 consecutive patients (aged 45.7±13.0) without known CVD in randomly selected primary care units in Małopolska., Results: The most common major modifiable CVD risk factor was hypercholesterolemia (648; 66.3%) while predisposing was incorrect nutrition (890; 91.0%). The prevalence of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and obesity was increased with age but cigarette smoking, low physical activity and poor nutrition remain unchanged. CVD risk assessed using Pol-SCORE charts was high or very high in 104 (16.9%) and moderate in 369 (59.5%) patients. Each of the modifiable CVD risk factors was often identified by people with higher education and educated beforehand by a doctor or nurse. The presence of a particular CVD risk factor was not associated with better knowledge of it except for diabetes (OR 3.44, 95% CI 0.996-11.863)., Conclusions: Educated patients have better knowledge on CVD risk factors. Identification of CVD risk factors and education about them should be implemented during visits in primary health care.

Unlabelled: Arterial hypertension (AH) is one of the main risk factors of negative cardiovascular (CVR) events and the complex evaluation of CVR is necessary for the successful treatment of patients with AH. Simultaneously CVR increases when the inflammatory markers levels are elevated., Aim: The aim of study was to evaluate the frequency of CVR factors presence and their relation to the inflammatory markers in patients with AH., Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in group of 144 patients (99 men, mean age 45.2 years) with AH and no other diagnosed cardiovascular diseases. The clinical assessment included: i.e. fasting glucose (FG), total cholesterol (T-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG) and inflammatory markers: fibrinogen, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and leukocytes count (WBC). CVR was assessed based on the presence of the risk factors included in the ESC guidelines., Results: Dylipidemia was observed in over 90% of patients in the study group (most often as the elevated level of T-C and LDL-C), abdominal obesity in 54.9%, more than 3 CVR factors in over 70% and increased levels of at least one of inflammatory markers in 40.3% of patients (most often hs-CRP - 35.4%). The statistically significant correlations between anthropometric parameters (BMI, waist cirfumference), laboratory parameters (HDL-C, TG) and inflammatory markers were observed, the strongest for BMI versus hs-CRP (r = 0.42, p < 0.000001). In the logic regression analysis the factors increasing the probability of the elevated inflammatory activity turned out to be: abdominal obesity - OR 3.05 (95% CI: 1.49 - 12.22; p = 0.002); BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 - OR 3.18 (95% CI: 1.57 - 6.44; p = 0.0012) and the presence of more than 3 risk factors - OR 2.57 (95% CI: 1.13 - 5.83; p = 0.023)., Conclusions: The increased level of inflammatory markers is related to the complex metabolic disturbances and the assessment of the activation of inflammatory process (especially hsCRP) can be useful in the complex CVR evaluation and profound defining of therapeutical goals., (© 2015 MEDPRESS.)

Introduction: There has been an increase over the last decade in the number of young patients with type 1 diabetes treated with a continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). The accelerated development of atherosclerosis is closely linked to metabolic control and traditional risk factors., Aim: Analysis of changes in the treatment and clinical picture of type 1 diabetes in children over the years 2000-2010, with emphasis on risk factors for cardiovascular disease., Materials and Methods: The study included 567 children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. 251 children who were treated in 2000 were compared with 316 children treated in 2010. The study analyzed anthropometric parameters, laboratory tests and data obtained using questionnaires., Results: In 2010, there was an increase in the percentage of children treated with CSU (up to 60.1%) and a decrease in the percentage of children using traditional insulin In favour of insulin analogues. An increase in HbA1c was observed from 7.4% to 8% (p < 0.001) and an increase in the percentage of patients with HbA1c>7.5%. There was an increase in the percentage of children with obesity from 5.2% to 13.7% (p =0.004) and an increase in BMI SDS. The number of children with hypertension was comparable in both groups (17.9% vs 15.8%), as was the percentage of children with dyslipidemią (48.6% ys 513%). Antihypertensive drugs were used in 97.8% vs. 70% of children with hypertension, metformin in 15.4% vs. 14% of children with obesity, and lipid-lowering drugs only in 3.3% vs; 2.5% of patients with dyslipidemia. It has been shown that nowadays children live in families burdened with risk factors for atherosclerosis., Conclusions: Contemporary patients frequently have excessive body weight and live in families burdened with risk factors for atherosclerosis. Despite the use of modern technology, metabolic control is not satisfactory., (© Polish Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology.)

In Kraków, the second largest town in Poland, cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rate is lower than in most top largest towns in Poland and lower than the rate for total Polish population., Aim: The aim of the present analysis was to compare socioeconomic status (SES), prevalence of CVD risk factors and SCORE assessment of risk in Krakow with residents of other big towns in Poland and with general Polish population., Materialand Methods: We used data from the two large, population studies which used comparable methods for risk factors assessment: 1) Polish part of the HAPIEE Project in which 10 615 residents of Krakow at age between 45-69 years were examined, and (2) The WOBASZ Study which contributed with a sub-sample 6 888 of residents of Poland at corresponding age group. WOBASZ sample included 992 residents of big towns other than Krakow. Age-standardized proportions of persons with CVD risk factors were compared between Krakow and the other big towns in Poland and between Krakow and the whole Poland using χ2 test., Results: The striking observation was that in Krakow proportions of participants with university education were substantially higher than average for the other big towns and the whole Poland. Also, the proportion of occupationally active men and women was the highest in Krakow. In both sexes, prevalence of smoking, hypercholesterolemia and hypertension in Krakow was similar to the other big towns but the prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and hypertension (in men only) was lower than average for Poland. The distribution by SCORE risk categories were similar in all three samples studied. In general, the distribution by BMI categories was less favourable but the prevalence of central obesity was lower among residents of Kraków than among residents of the other big towns and citizens of the whole Poland. Prevalence of diabetes was higher in Krakow than in the other samples studied. The differences between population of Krakow and population of other parts of Poland in the exposure to the main risk factors were found diverse and not big enough to be followed by differences in the distribution by the categories of SCORE risk assessment. The study suggested the importance of obesity and diabetes which are not used for the SCORE risk assessment and especially the importance of psychosocial and economic factors which may influence CVD risk and contribute more to the explanation of the regional differences in CVD mortality.

Among the modifiable risk factors smoking has the most impact on cardiovascular mortality. Among patients with cardiovascular disease benefits of quitting smoking outweigh those associated with commonly prescribed drugs. Hospitalization in the ward seems to be a good time to motivate the patient to take this step. In our paper we present the effectiveness of different methods to achieve this goal.

Unlabelled: Association of smoking with the occurrence and severity of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is poorly understood., The Aim of the Study: The evaluation of smoking habits among the patients hospitalized with the suspicion and diagnosis of the OSAS. The possible relationship between smoking and severity of OSAS and the occurrence of concomitant diseases occurrence was also evaluated., Material and Methods: 82 patients has been included into the study: 11 without OSAS (apnea/hypopnea index-AHI < 5/hour) and 71 with OSAS of varying severity (AHI 7-74/hours)., Results: Forty six patients with OSAS were smokers or ex-smokers, and 5 persons from a group without OSAS were ex-smokers. Patients with OSAS who smoked at least 20 pack years had significant higher AHI (54.5/h) than non-smokers (38.5/h) and patients smoking less than 20 pack years (35.9/h). These groups of patients did not differ according to BMI (36.8 kg/m2, 38.8 kg/m2, 36.3 kg/ms). Smokers with OSAS more frequently had concomitant cardiovascular diseases than non-smokers with OSAS (86.1% and 23.1% respectively)., Conclusion: Smoking influences the severity of OSAS independently of the degree of obesity.

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory and proliferative disease which has a tendency to recur. Metabolic disturbances occur more often in patients with psoriasis in comparison to the general population. Due to the systemic inflammation and metabolic disturbances in psoriasis the risk of cardiovascular diseases is significantly higher. The data on higher cardiovascular risk which accompanies psoriasis suggest that every patient with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis should be screened for metabolic disturbances. Patients with psoriasis should be under special care of general practitioner in order to prevent, diagnose and treat metabolic disturbances early.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of skin, nail plates and joints, which shares similarities with other chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis. Recent studies indicated that patients with psoriasis are at greater risk for cardiovascular co-morbidities and metabolic syndrome. Published data demonstrates that there is a correlation between the severity of skin changes, cardiovascular co-morbidities and features of metabolic syndrome. Recent research showed that psoriasis plaque shares striking histological features with atherosclerotic one. Both plaques have an elevated level of activated T helper 1 and T helper 17 cells. T helper 1 cells show an overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines such as: TNF-alpha, INF-gamma IL-6 which result in endothelial dysfunction. IL-17 produced by T helper 17 cells have been known to play an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and trigger inflammation in various tissues and organs. In addition, elevated level of serum IL-17 have been observed in unstable coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as in acute myocardial infarction (MI). Physical activity was proved to play a protective role in prevalence of cardiovascular co-morbidities. Recent studies showed that increased physical activity in patients with psoriasis reduce inflammation and risk of cardiometabolic co-morbidities.

Unlabelled: Prophylactic examinations allowing for the evaluation of the medical condition and the diagnosis of symptoms of illness in the preclinical stage is a crucial element of the prevention. The early diagnosis of disorders is improving the effectiveness of medicinal actions and rehabilitation, enhancing the possibility of getting well. It is of special importance in cardiovascular diseases which in Poland are recognised late and have become a fundamental health hazard. The aim of study was to evaluate causes of the participation in open days in the aspect of sociodemographic conditioning of residents of Sanok district and conducting the evaluation of their body mass and values of the blood pressure., Materials and Methods: The research was conducted in 2009 and in 2010 including the group of 215 persons during open days of the special hospital of the Independent Public Centre of Health Care in Sanok. In the accumulation of empirical material method of the diagnostic survey was used with applying the author's questionnaire of the survey form. The following techniques were applied: conducting a survey and the measurement of biophysical features (of body mass, height, blood pressure) with using measuring devices. Collected data were subjected to a statistical analysis with applying the chi-square test., Results: The ease of access and desire for performing examinations and expectation of the evaluation of the medical condition decided in the main measure about the participation in this initiative. The greatest demand was for advice of the cardiologist. The correct BMI indicator has most often been evaluated in the group of people of the singleness and country dwellers. The obesity has more often been identified at persons after divorce, being married and of residents of cities. Almost at the every second person an arterial hypertension of blood was stated. Majority of the examined had the correct concentration of glucose in the blood on an empty stomach., Conclusions: Risk factors of cardiovascular diseases identified at examined persons are an arterial hypertension and different degrees of the excess mass. During open days the greatest demand was stated to advice of consultants in cardiology. Obtained findings constitute the argument being enough to continue further diagnostic investigation at patients, at whom alarming manifestations were identified, in order to confirm illness and early beginning the treatment.

Homocysteine (Hcy) is an endogenous, non-structural protein, a sulfur-containing amino acid emerging on the pathway of methionine and cysteine, actively involved in numerous biochemical reactions. Total concentration of homocysteine in plasma of healthy humans is low and its level is between 5.0 and 15.0 mmol/l, assessed with the use of HPLC, or 5.0-12.0 mmol/l, using immunoassay methods. Higher concentration of this amino acid in blood is called hyperhomocysteinemia. Hyperhomocysteinemia is significantly correlated with cardiovascular disease and its complications: heart attacks and strokes. It is believed that hyperhomocysteinemia damages endothelial cells, reduces the flexibility of vessels, and adversely affects the process of hemostasis. In addition, hyperhomocysteinemia enhances the adverse effects of risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, and impaired glucose, lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, as well as promoting the development of inflammation. The concentration of homocysteine can be effectively lowered by supplementation with folic acid and vitamins B12 and B6. However, intervention studies conducted in the past decade did not confirm the clinical benefit of vitamin therapy lowering the level of homocysteine in blood of patients with cardiovascular disease. Moreover, there is not clear evidence from genetic studies that the presence of the gene for MTFHR polymorphism 677C>T, which is one of the most common causes of hyperhomocysteinemia, is also associated with the development of cardiovascular disease. These results led the researchers to discuss the role of homocysteine in the development and treatment of cardiovascular disease as well as the need for further research on this issue.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by persistent airflow limitation and extrapulmonary comorbidities, which contribute to the overall severity. Some risk factors, with tobacco smoking as the most serious one, lead to a chronic, systemic inflammation that plays the main role in the pathogenesis of COPD and comorbidities, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The course of COPD is diverse; it depends on pathologies in the respiratory system and on other organ dysfunctions. CVDs are the most commonly recognised comorbidities in COPD patients. The severity and natural course of COPD, as well as quality of the patient's life, are influenced by them. CVDs are frequently the reason for hospitalisation and may lead to death. They are also an important prognostic factor. Comorbidities may prolong exacerbation of COPD. On the other hand, COPD is an independent risk factor of CVD. The prevalence of COPD is high in patients suffering from coronary artery disease, and airflow limitation is a major risk factor for chronic heart failure. These complex interactions between heart and lung can be denoted as 'cardiopulmonary continuum'. These dependencies are not recognised in detail. Currently research is being done, which attempts to explain these complicated relations. For many years COPD and CVD were not connected. Today it is known that patients suffering from COPD must be provided comprehensive care. It is necessary to monitor the risk of CVD and their influence on the COPD course. Careful and proper treatment of all diseases is essential. An interdisciplinary team with good cooperation should prepare a plan of COPD treatment with simultaneous therapy of comorbidities.

Background: The most important way to reduce the incidence of the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) is prevention, which should include modification of risk factors., Aim: To define knowledge of primary CVD prevention, and to rate compliance with prevention rules among students'., Material and Methods: The study included 275 first year (ly) students and 161 sixth year (6y) students of the Faculty of Medicine (303 Females and 133 Males; aged 18-29 years). Anonymous questionnaire on acquaintance with the primary prevention, compliance with it and correct values and units of blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol level was conducted among survey participants., Results: 6y students indicated risk factors of CVD significantly more correctly than ly students. The proper value of male and female waist circumference was indicated correctly more often by 6y students than ly students. When compared to ly students, 6y students more often marked properly the heart attack symptoms, tests which are necessary to diagnose ACS, and markers of the myocardial necrosis. Respectively, among the ly and 6y students the mean BMI was: 20.82 kg/m2 vs. 21, 74 kg/m2, mean waist circumference: 70.00 cm vs.74.81 cm. 6y students more often than ly students eat regular meals, eat fruits and vegetables more than 4 times a week, exercise more than 30 minutes a day., Conclusions: Sixth year medical students' knowledge about the prevention of CVD is greater than the first year students' but still is unsatisfactory. Sixth year students slightly often follow the rules of primary prevention than first year students.

Nowadays we know that psoriasis is more than "skin deep": it is considered a systemic disease. An increasing number of studies on the pathogenesis of psoriasis have shown that this disease is associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Psoriasis appears to be a risk factor for the development of these diseases. That is why the concept of "psoriatic march" was proposed to demonstate that severe psoriasis may cause cardiovascular diseases. Many epidemiological studies have shown frequent coexistence of metabolic syndrome (insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, obesity, hypertension and diseases of the cardiovascular system) in patients with severe course of psoriasis. Additionally, we observe a frequent coexistence of autoimmune disorders and cancers in patients with psoriasis. Suffering from psoriasis causes impaired self-esteem and depressive disorders. It is a source of stress for the patients, making them more likely to use alcohol or cigarettes.

Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) may affect up to 90% of the patients. It is one of the non typical risk factors of cardiovascular disease, specific for this population. The main reasons of the anemia in CKD are iron and erythropoietin deficiency. It is recognized in women with hemoglobin concentration < 11 g/dl and in men and postmenopausal women with hemoglobin concentration < 12 g/dl. Other potentially reversible reasons of anemia should be excluded in differential diagnosis. Iron and erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESA) constitute the main treatment of anemia of CKD.

The aim of the study was to assess differences in cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (hypertension, coronary artery disease - CAD, stroke) in women and men in relation to demographic and social characteristics in adult population in Poland. Study was performed in the representative group of 4071 individuals (18+) in Poland. Face to face interviews were done using structured questionnaire. Chi-squared test and decision tree analysis have been used to assess the presence of difference between groups and to determine characteristics typical for the ill. Age was a factor significantly associated with the diversity of CVD prevalence in women and men. Similar role played the level of education and marital status. Low income was additional significant determinant of the CVD for both women and men. Analysis based on decision trees additionally confirmed the differences in characteristics of ill persons in younger age groups. Our results indicate that especially in younger age groups it may be more than expected number of women suffering from early stage ischemic heart disease. Due to atypical or less severe symptoms some cases remain probably undiagnosed on the level of health care system. Our finding is supported by the consistency between the frequency of physician diagnosed CAD and WHO algorithm in 60-79 age category.

In Poland like in other European countries a favorable trend towards reducing morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease has been observed. Nevertheless they are still one of the most important health problems in the population, responsible for nearly half of all deaths, including premature deaths. They also affect the quality of life in terms of health and socio-economic development, limiting the possibility of taking and/or continuing employment. Nowadays, cardiovascular diseases have become more common among young, professionally active people. Their professional activity, work organization and exposure to a broad range of occupational factors and environmental conditions may significantly influence the development and course of the cardiovascular disease. The aim of the study was to present the relationship between occupation and some rarer diseases and cardiovascular pathologies, as well as those in which this relationship has not as yet been fully evidenced, however, they may play an important role in workers' health care. In this paper tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy, aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, pericardial tamponade, Brugada syndrome and sudden cardiac death are discussed. In addition, the authors indicate new issues emerging along with the development of modern diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in cardiology, such as the care of patients with implanted pace-maker and the use of automated external defibrillators. These issues are presented in the context of their relationship with the occupation, taking into account the activities possibly to be undertaken under preventive care programs.

Unlabelled: With age occurs the aging central nervous system, and therefore increases the risk of mental disorders in this medium, including depressive disorders. In particular, a large proportion of depressive disorders in the organic substrate is observed in people over 65 years of age. Literature says that in this age group as 15-30% of people receiving assistance from family doctors have diagnosed depression. THE AIM OF THE STUDY was to investigate the comorbidity in patients with a diagnosis of organic depression., Materials and Methods: We analyzed 227 medical records of diagnosed depressive disorders coexisting with other organic mental disorders in patients hospitalized in 2008-2010 in the Specialist Hospital Dr. J. Babiński in Cracow. We analyzed the medical records of outpatient treatment of the above. Analyses were made medical history by questionnaire of our own design., Results: It has been shown that in the organic comorbidity depressive disorders related in most men, between 60 and 70 years of age. Most were people about the origin of the workers and peasants, mainly in vocational education. Every second person was unmarried. The subjects usually receive disability benefits and retirement. The organic depressive disorders frequently co-exist: the teams dementia, anxiety, personality disorders, delusional teams. The subjects were mainly dependent on alcohol and sedative drugs from the group of benzodiazepines. In every other test persons experienced cardiovascular disease. Among patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence disorder typical of taking psychoactive substances such as liver, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract. The treatment was particularly detrimental in people addicted to drugs., Conclusions: In the study population were two main groups of comorbid namely to psychoactive drugs and mental disorders not related with dependence on psychoactive substances. Comparative analysis of the dynamics of the disease has a significant adverse course and prognosis in children with addiction. In both groups, somatic concern comorbidity cardiovascular disease and in the control group significantly frequent somatic disorders typical of alcoholics (liver, pancreas).

Background: The paper aims to assess the prevalence of CVD risk factors taking into account the job type among CVD Prevention and Early Detection Program participants and to assess the likelihood of positive changes., Materials and Methods: A group of 393 Program participants was the subject of our observation twice (2006-2008, and 2009-2011). The study subjects had their arterial blood pressure measured. We also analysed the concentration of lipids and glucose before breakfast and anthropometric measurements. Moreover, we used a survey questionnaire about the socio-economic situation of the study subjects, their health behaviors and status. The obtained results were subjected to a statistical treatment, including the chi2 independence test and logistic regression., Results: Our study confirmed an association between the job type and arterial blood pressure, lipid disorders and prevalence of diabetes. Blue-collar workers suffered more often from CVD risk factors (arterial hypertension, high total cholesterol, high triglycerides, high glucose level before breakfast, diabetes, overweight, obesity) than their white-collar colleagues. A 3-year observation showed a higher chance for positive changes in total cholesterol (OR = 2.90), triglycerides (OR = 2.91), glucose before breakfast (OR = 3.11) and body mass index (OR = 2.56) among white-collar workers., Conclusions: The assessment of the prevalence of CVD risk factors indicated a worse situation among blue-collar workers. We estimated the likelihood of positive changes three years after the launch of the prevention program. It turned out to be higher among white-collar workers.

Cardiovascular diseases for decades have been and still are the main and current health problem of the Polish society and there are many reasons for these diseases. Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease. The factors significantly increasing risk the of cardiovascular disease are in addition to high blood pressure, smoking (also passive), high blood fats (cholesterol and its HDL, LDL fractions as well as triglyceride levels, obesity, lack of exercise, diabetes and hereditary features. Other important factors which play an important role are external factors such as e.g. environmental pollution, lifestyle, stress. Prediction of cardiovascular disease should start from the evaluation of the fetal period because low birth weight may be a risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension, obesity or diabetes in adulthood. The authors of the referred tests showed that the level of blood pressure observed during childhood is closely associated with the level of blood pressure in adults and is also dependent on the body weight. Since the issue of the effects of high pressure on the cardiovascular system is inherent in the issue of the metabolic syndrome, it should be mentioned also that another causative factor may be an irregularity in the removal of urine from the body and the amount of insulin. The control of hypertension is a complex problem, at least in view of the wide range of adverse factors affecting the human body: hypertension is often either a constituent of other lesions. Therefore, it is difficult to treat high blood pressure in the strict sense; more often it is a combination therapy based on pharmacology caused for other reasons.

Introduction: The history of HIV infection has always been associated with patient nutritional problems, initially in the form of wasting syndrome, and since the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy such metabolic disorders as lipodystrophy, obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia that are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases have been observed., Aim: evaluation of nutritional disorders in HIV infected patients using anthropometric parameters: waist circumference, BMI (body mass index) and WHR (waist-hip ratio)., Material and Methods: the study included 72 HIV infected patients (48 men, 24 women, average age 39.4). The control group comprised 27 not infected subjects, matched for age and sex. Physical examination with measurements of body mass, height, waist and hip circumference was performed and the values of two anthropometric parameters--body mass index and waist/hip ratio were calculated., Results: BMI in the group of HIV infected patients was significantly lower than in the control group (23.6 vs. 25.6 kg/m2, p = 0.01). These BMI values are normal, but significantly lower in HIV-infected men compared with not infected, and no differences were found between women. Infected men are less likely to be overweight and obese than not infected ones. Underweight was noted in 6.8% of patients from the study group (6% of men and 4% of women). WHR was significantly higher in the study group comparing with the healthy subjects (0.92 vs. 0.86 p = 0.002), which resulted from significantly lower hip circumference among the infected patients (93.0 vs. 98.3, p = 0.002). Waist circumference was similar in both groups (85.1 vs. 84.0). The WHR value in the infected women was a result of insignificantly higher waist circumference and lower hip circumference. HIV infected women have significantly more often too large waist circumference comparing with not infected ones (46% vs 0%, p = 0.01). In the group of infected men, the WHR value was significantly affected only by low hip circumference, and larger waist circumference was observed with the same frequency as in the control group. According to IDF criteria the central obesity was more frequent in HIV infected than in not infected patients. According to the WHO criteria it was more often diagnosed in infected women compared with not infected ones, which was not recorded in the male group., Conclusions: The prevalence of overweight or obesity in the studied cohort of HIV infected patients is significantly lower than among the not infected people. At the same time the HIV infection is significantly more often accompanied by features of central obesity, expressed as abnormal waist circumference value. HIV infected patients have significantly lower BMI and higher WHR values. Higher WHR in the infected group is due to low hip circumference. HIV infected women usually have normal body weight and are significantly more likely than not infected women to show the features of central obesity as a result of increased waist circumference and low hip circumference. Men infected with HIV, compared with not infected ones, are characterized by lower, normal body weight, and their significantly higher WHR is determined by low value of hip circumference. Waist circumference seems to be an appropriate diagnostic criterion for central obesity in the studied population.

Background: Several studies have shown an association between work-related stress and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. ever, only a few studies concerned the police. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the general and work-related stress, and the functioning of the circulatory system in the police staff., Material and Methods: The study group consisted of 126 policemen (aged 37.8 +/- 7.3 years), with average employment duration of 14.4 +/- 7 years. The study comprised the assessment of health status based on the medical examination and medical history of identified diseases, cardiovascular risk factors and symptoms, dietary habits, physical activity, intake of drugs, data on the family history, determinations of serum total cholesterol, HDL and LDL fractions, triglycerides, and fasting glycemia . The stress level was assessed using the Questionnaire for the Subjective Assessment of Work and Perceived Stress Scale., Results: On medical examination hypertension was found in 36% of the people under study. Chest discomfort was reported by 60% of the subjects. Average body mass index (BMI), serum cholesterol and LDI, were elevated (22.7 +/- 4.1, 222.6 +/- 41.7 mg/dl and 142.7 +/- 39.7 mg/dl, respectively). Mean triglyceride, HDL fraction and fasting glucose levels were normal in the whole group. The levels of general and occupational stress were 34.914.8 and 128.0+33.3, respectively, being higher than in other occupational groups. In the group with the highest level of stress, there were significantly more people with circulatory problems (81%), drinking strong alcohol at least once a week (27%), working in a 3-shift system (40.5%) and working overtime (44%)., Conclusions: The results show that the police are a group at high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases due to work-related stress.

Patients with end-stage kidney disease are at high cardiovascular risk due to accelerated atherosclerosis development. Important factors that accelerate the development of atherosclerosis in this group are calcium-phosphorus disturbances causing vascular calcification. Therefore, slowing the development and progression of vascular calcification is a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of calcium and phosphorus disturbances associated with chronic kidney disease. It seems that cinacalcet, a calcimimetic of the second generation, used in patients with refractory secondary hyperparathyroidism can slow the progression of vascular calcification and potentially reduce the cardiovascular risk. This paper reviews the current literature on the pathogenesis of vascular calcification and the potential impact of cinacalcet to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with end-stage kidney disease.

Background: As coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains an important myocardial revascularisation strategy, more attention has been paid to the role of numerous factors affecting outcomes after CABG, including depression and depressive symptoms. However, previous studies on this issue gave inconsistent results, the dynamics of depression has been seldom investigated, and only few reports have specifically addressed this problem in Poland., Aim: Prospective evaluation of the effect of depressive symptoms and the dynamics of their occurrence on the incidence of cardiac events in patients after CABG during a 2-year follow-up., Methods: We studied 170 patients aged 63 ± 10 years, including 17 women and 153 men, who underwent CABG. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms at 2 weeks (0M), 3 months (3M), and 24 months (24M) after CABG. Based on the BDI findings during subsequent follow-up visits, patients were divided into three groups depending on the dynamics of depressive symptoms: Group I without depression (67 patients), Group II with incidental depression (72 patients), and Group III with chronic depression (31 patients). During the 2-year follow-up, we evaluated the incidence of three combined endpoints that included death, myocardial infarction (MI), coronary angioplasty or redo CABG surgery; recurrent angina; and hospitalisations due to arrhythmia, heart failure or other cardiac causes. We analysed the effect of demographic, clinical, perioperative end psychological parameters to identify independent risk factors for cardiac events., Results: Among patients with chronic depression, more cardiac events were noted compared to patients without depression or with incidental depression. All combined endpoints were significantly more common in patients with chronic depression compared to those without depression (death, MI, coronary angioplasty or redo CABG surgery: 19.3% in Group III vs. 5.9% in Group I, p = 0.0437; recurrent angina: 45% in Group III vs. 16.4% in Group I, p = 0.027; hospitalisations due to arrhythmia, heart failure or other cardiac causes: 54.8% in Group III vs. 31.3% in Group I, p = 0.0287). Hospitalisation rate was also higher among patients with chronic depression compared to those with incidental depression (54.8% in Group III vs. 31.9% in Group II, p = 0.031). In multivariate analysis using a linear regression model, independent risk factors for hospitalisation during the 2-year follow-up included the presence of depressive symptoms in the early postoperative period (p = 0.03) and the BDI score at 3 months after CABG (p = 0.0001). Use of antidepressants at baseline was an independent risk factor for recurrent angina (p = 0.004). Depressive symptoms, regardless of their dynamics, were not found to be a risk factor for the combined endpoint of death, MI, coronary angioplasty or redo CABG surgery., Conclusions: During a 2-year prospective follow-up of patients after CABG, cardiac events were significantly more common among patients with chronic depression (but not incidental depression) as compared to patients without depressive symptoms. Hospitalisation rate among patients with chronic depression was significantly higher compared to both patients without depression or with incidental depression. Both chronic and incidental depression was not shown to be to be a risk factor for the combined endpoint of death, MI, coronary angioplasty or redo CABG surgery. Severe depressive symptoms that required the use of antidepressants at baseline were an independent risk factor of recurrent angina. The presence of depressive symptoms at baseline and BDI score at 3 months were independent risk factors for rehospitalisation. This suggests that the dynamics of depressive symptoms may have an effect on rehospitalisations in patients after CABG.

Unlabelled: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of tobacco smoking on the selected risk factors for cardiovascular disease in young adults., Material and Methods: we analyzed the results of cardiovascular screening management on medical students aged 20-24. The study was conducted on 438 persons, 350 non-smokers (N) and 88 smokers (S) declared as healthy individuals: 274 females (F), 230 non-smokers (FN) and 44 smokers (FS), and 164 males (M), 120 non-smokers (MN) and 44 smokers (MS). The subjects were measured waist, body mass index (BMI), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, They were assessed fasting capillary blood tests: glucose, total cholesterol (T-C), triacylglycerols (TAG), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), nonHDL-C, T-C/HDL-C ratio, using analyzer Reflotron Plus (Roche Diagnostics, USA). The results collected in groups of females (F), males (M), non-smokers (N) and smokers (S) were calculated using Statistica 10 version., Results: Females and males did not differ with their age, BMI, TAG, LDL-C and nonHDL-C, but males presented physiological higher waist and T-C/HDL-C ratio, decreased HDL-C, and higher SBP and DBP, although within references. N and S females did not differ with waist, BMI, SBP and DBP, similar to N and S males. Smokers (S) presented increased TAG, decreased HDL-C and higher waist, comparing with non-smokers (N) - without relation of TAG and HDL-C to either waist or BMI. FS group were found increased TAG and correlation TAG&BMI (R=0,45), as compared with FN group. MS group had higher TAG and lower HDL-C than MN group, and negative correlation TAG&HDL-C (R=-0,39)., Conclusion: Tobacco smoking, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, can modify plasma lipid profile in young adults to increase the risk more, especially in males.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a very important issue for the health care system. They are usually chronic diseases widespread in the society that require costly treatment and cause long-term sick absenteeism and partial or total incapacity for work. CVD are one of the most common cause of disability in Poland, therefore they constitute a medical, social and economic problem. Low occupational activity of people with CVD at working age requires special effort to develop and implement methods of their professional activation. A key role in this process should be played by physicians of occupational health services (OHS). In the case of disabled workers with cardiovascular disease, the decision about avoiding professional activity is often medically unjustified. It arises from a lack of sufficient knowledge ofjurisprudence and the fear of both the physician and the employee ofpatient's health deteriorations. Therefore, educational actions addressed to OHS physicians and to the patients are needed to enable the patients with CVD to remain at or to return to work.

Majority of patients with glaucoma, age-related maculopathy or diabetic macular edema is old. Therefore arterial hypertension, coronary arterial disease, diabetes and dyslipidemia are common finding in patients with sick eye. In this article some situations needing cooperation of cardiologist and ophthalmologist have been pointed. The influence of treatment of hypertension on glaucoma outcomes and the influence of intraocular injections of biological drugs on cardiovascular risk seems to be the most important issues.

World Health Organization includes the eight main risk factors, which causes about 61% of cardiovascular deaths. These factors are: tobacco and alcohol use, high blood pressure, high body mass index, abnormal blood lipid levels, high blood glucose, a diet high in saturated fat and low in fruit and vegetable intake and physical inactivity. Thanks to them it's possible to expect probability of illness and its complication. Particularly exposed to cardiovascular morbidity are those patients who have multiple risk factors. The investigated group consisted of 114 male patients, who lived in Poznan. The authors analyzed lifestyle factors (smoking, prophylactic examination, exercise and leisure activities and diet), which were compared with laboratory and diagnostic tests plus selected individual characteristics of respondents. Answers distribution within the group are presented as percentages. The aim of the study was to analyze health behaviors among men age > 50 years related to risk factors cardiovascular diseases. Results shows that most of the study group had overweight or obesity and their daily physical activity was confined only to the work in the garden or walking. There were 33% of men with BMI>30, which increases their risk of heart attack twice. Incidence of hypertension was related to obesity, high blood cholesterol and high triglyceride levels. Vascular interventions occurs more frequently among daily smokers and former smokers. More than half of study group with hypertension stopped smoking because of their diseases. Men who declared healthy lifestyle more frequently perform prophylactic control tests and examination. Mostly three or four risk factors were found among study group. For the men after 50 there should be implemented more prophylactic programs, to encourage lifestyle changes and eliminate risk factors.

Unlabelled: Smoking is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. In Poland, 25% of women and 42% of men smoke cigarette regularly. The risk of myocardial infarction decreased significantly after cessation of smoking. Tobacco prevention is an integral part of health policies implemented in our country. Smoking is an indispensable element in the assessment of risk of death from cardiovascular using SCORE algorithm used by the Program for Prevention and Early Detection of Cardiovascular Diseases, conducted by the National Health Fund., Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in 2009-2011 in Zgierz (lodzkie voivodship). Study group consisted of former participants of the Programme of Prevention and Early Detection of Cardiovascular Diseases in the years 2006-2008. Tool for the study was a questionnaire survey extended with the study card, where laboratory results were applied. SCORE risk assessment used charts for countries with high risk. In all patients, laboratory tests assessing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and fasting glucose were made. Respondents were also performed two-measurement of blood pressure. For the calculations, the methods of descriptive statistics and analysis using the package Statistica 9.0 PL., Results: The study sample consisted of 458 persons. Among the respondents, 27.4% women and 38.2% of men smoked cigarettes. For regular smokers were 144 people, including 26 claimed that smokes occasionally. 74 people have decided to stop smoking after participating in the preventive program. We observed a strong correlation between smoking and arterial hypertension and glucose intolerance., Conclusions: Should be stepped up preventive measures aimed at combating the prevalence of tobacco consumption in local communities.

Since long plant fats are considered by nutritionists, dieticians and doctors, as main source of essential unsaturated fatty acids) n-6 and n-3 in human diet. On the market there is plenty of oils that can be consumed directly or used to frying. Last four decades consumption of oils increased several times due to stimulated by advertisement popularization of their pro-health activity. Plant oils supply mostly multi unsaturated fatty acids n-6 excess of which disadvantageously influence human health. Determinations of changes of oxidative stability of plant fats (during processing and storage) proved that consumption of oxidation products of fatty acids and sterols may be a reason of various diseases. Both epidemiologic and clinic studies indicated that if plant fats (both oils except this from olives and margarines) have possessed pro-health properties, their several times increased consumption would liquidate the problem of arteriosclerosis and its clinical complications (heart attack, stroke). For the present, every second death in the industrial countries results from the cardiovascular disease. Morbidity of cancer is also increasing and of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases is growing up vigorously.

Since thirty years there is growing interest in normal weight individuals who have metabolic disorders. These individuals are identified as metabolically obese but normal weight (MONW). Insulin resistance, elevated arterial blood pressure, abnormal lipid profile and sedentary style of live are known risk factors of atherosclerosis in general population. On the other hand, increased amount of visceral and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue is associated with increased risk of metabolic abnormalities. These abnormalities existing in MONW individuals exert an effect on increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Identification of individuals at risk is difficult not only because no clear definition of MONW is established but also due to common belief that the cardiovascular risk in nonobese is low. The awareness of association of metabolic abnormalities in MONW with atherosclerosis should argue physicians into early screening and modification of cardiovascular risk factors in nonobese individuals.