Prevalence of orthostatic hypotension in heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Federica Coscetta, Bernadette Corica, Andrea De Mare et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the prevalence of orthostatic hypotension (OH) among people with heart failure (HF), using nine studies comprising 10 cohorts and 2036 patients. The pooled prevalence was 26.7% (95% CI 20.4-34.2%), or approximately one in four patients. Between-study heterogeneity was high (I²=90.2%). Subgroup analyses found higher prevalence in Europe and Asia and the Middle East than in other countries. The authors note that OH may complicate HF management, while its effects on guideline-directed medical therapy and clinical outcomes remain to be investigated.
Key findings
- Across 2036 patients with HF, pooled OH prevalence was 26.7% (95% CI 20.4-34.2%).
- Between-study heterogeneity was high (I²=90.2%).
- Subgroup analyses found higher OH prevalence in Europe and Asia and the Middle East than in other countries.
Why it matters
OH was common in the HF populations represented in this review and may complicate management, including optimization of guideline-directed medical therapy. Recognizing its frequency provides context for assessing blood pressure changes on standing in HF. However, the review does not establish how OH affects treatment delivery or clinical outcomes.
What to keep in mind
Between-study heterogeneity was high (I²=90.2%), limiting the consistency of the pooled prevalence estimate.