Echocardiographic Evaluation of Right Ventricular Function and its Role in the Prognosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with structural and mechanical changes in the pulmonary vascular bed that increase right ventricular (RV) afterload and subsequently right heart failure.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to elucidate RV dysfunction at rest by echocardiography in a cohort of COPD patients and to study its impact on prognosis.

Methods: 84 patients of COPD and 40 matching healthy controls were evaluated at baseline.

Vascular Disease in Young Indians (20-40 years): Role of Hypertension.

Hypertension (HTN) being one of the important risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant health concern, especially in India. With age, prevalence of HTN, especially systolic HTN increases. Special attention needs to be directed to HTN in young ages (20-40 years) due to lower awareness, need for early treatment and better control of HTN.