Global Cardiovascular Risk Under Early Corticosteroid Cessation Decreases Progressively in the First Year Following Renal Transplantation

A primary reason to eliminate corticosteroids from immunosuppressive regimens in solid organ transplant recipients is improved cardiovascular risk profiles. Although a number of studies have documented that corticosteroid withdrawal (CSWD) regimens reduce hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and weight gain, global assessments of cardiovascular risk under CSWD have not been reported. The purpose of this study was to document cardiovascular risk under CSWD using a global risk assessment by Framingham risk assessment. Framingham global cardiovascular risk assessments were performed at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months posttransplant on patients enrolled in prospective, IRB-approved early (