A cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention counseling program decreases the prevalence of some CVD risk factors in patients with lupus, a recent study found. Patients in the program (n=121) were prospectively followed every 3–6 months for risk assessment and continued education by a nurse practitioner and a medical doctor. Researchers found:

• At baseline, abnormal blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol profile, and body mass index were found in 50 (41%), 7 (6%), 82 (68%), and 77 (64%) patients, respectively.

• During the 3-year follow-up, among those with abnormal baseline values, prevalence of abnormal blood pressure significantly decreased with significant mean ± SD systolic blood pressure improvement.
• The prevalence of abnormal cholesterol profile significantly decreased with significant improvements in mean ± SD high-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels, and no significant change in blood glucose and body mass index was observed.
• At baseline, 100 (83%) and 95 (79%) patients had poor diet and physical activity, respectively; during the follow-up, both significantly improved in the entire population.