Threshold body mass index and sex-specific waist circumference for increased risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Abstract

Background: Body mass index†Deceased. (BMI) is a risk factor for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Design: We investigated the threshold BMI and sex-specific waist circumference associated with increased HFpEF incidence in the SCReening Evaluation of the Evolution of New Heart Failure (SCREEN-HF) study, a cohort study of a community-based population at increased cardiovascular disease risk. Methods: Inclusion criteria were age ≥60 years with one or more of self-reported hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, abnormal heart rhythm, cerebrovascular disease or renal impairment. Exclusion criteria were known heart failure, ejection fraction <50% or more than mild valve abno..