Epicardial Fat Tissue and Cardiometabolic Risk in Russian and Asian Populations

Epicardial Fat Tissue Assessed by Echocardiography in Russian and Asian Populations: Association With Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases and Risk Factors

Visceral obesity is a well-established risk factor for the development of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Epicardial fat tissue (EFT) is located on the surface of the myocardium and may directly affect cardiac function and contribute to structural and functional remodeling.

According to the literature, increased EFT thickness is associated with a wide range of NCDs, disease severity, and prognosis.

The aim of this study is to investigate the associations between EFT thickness and clinical and anamnestic parameters, as well as to evaluate the prognostic value of this parameter in patients aged 50-70 years from the Russian Federation, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

The study is designed to:

1. Assess physical examination findings, laboratory parameters, and comorbidities;
2. Evaluate transthoracic echocardiography parameters;
3. Analyze associations between EFT thickness and clinical and anamnestic characteristics;
4. Determine threshold values of EFT thickness associated with structural and functional myocardial remodeling;
5. Conduct follow-up via telephone to assess study endpoints;
6. Evaluate the prognostic value of EFT thickness with respect to a composite endpoint.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 50-70 years undergoing transthoracic echocardiography in inpatient or outpatient settings;
• Ability and willingness to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refusal to sign informed consent;
• Inability to perform transthoracic echocardiography or poor image quality;
• Severe psychiatric disorders.