The Particulars: It has long been suspected that losing weight will improve long-term health outcomes in patients with symptoms of heart failure (HF) who undergo implantable cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator (CRT-D). However, other investigations suggest that the “obesity paradox” may apply to this patient population.
Data Breakdown: Nearly 1,000 patients who had received CRT-D were observed during 12 months for a study. Those who lost more than 4.4 lbs had a significant increase in risk of HF or death when compared with those without significant weight loss. For every 2.2 lbs of weight loss, the researchers observed a 4% increased risk for HF or death. These risks were doubled for those with a left bundle branch block.
Take Home Pearl: Even minor weight loss appears to be associated with worse outcomes among patients with symptomatic HF who receive CRT-D.
