To investigate the association of metabolic risk factors (MRFs) and statin use with specific liver outcomes (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma) and nonliver outcomes (e.g., cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).
Key Findings:
Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and other MRFs had the highest adjusted hazard ratios for liver outcomes, with DM showing a hazard ratio of 2.08.
Statin use was associated with a 15% lower risk of any liver outcomes and a 35% reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among patients with lower metabolic burden.
Higher metabolic burden (≥3 MRFs) was linked to increased risk for liver and nonliver complications.
Interpretation:
Increased metabolic burden significantly impacts liver and nonliver outcomes in CHB patients, with DM being particularly detrimental. Statins may reduce liver risks in patients with lower metabolic burden, highlighting the need for targeted management.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce bias, potentially affecting the reliability of the findings.
Data limited to patients with private health insurance and Medicare supplemental insurance, which may not represent the broader population.
Conclusion:
Monitoring and managing metabolic risk factors in CHB patients is crucial, and statin therapy may offer protective benefits in those with lower metabolic burden.
The use of wearable devices for health monitoring has attracted significant interest from patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals because of their potential to usher in a new era of personalized, accessible, and convenient care. This article explores the use of wearable technology for monitoring retinal health, both through direct assessment of ocular parameters—such as visual field testing and imaging—and through systemic monitoring of surrogate markers of retinal health.
