Prevalence and correlates of aortic regurgitation in american indians: the Strong Heart Study

OBJECTIVES We sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of aortic regurgitation (AR) in a population-based sample group. BACKGROUND Concern over induction of AR by weight loss medication highlights the importance of assessing the prevalence and correlates of AR in unselected patient groups. METHODS Aortic regurgitation was assessed by color flow Doppler echocardiography in 3,501 American Indian participants age 47 to 81 years during the second Strong Heart Study. RESULTS Mild (1+) AR was present in 7.3%, 2+ AR in 2.4% and 3+ to 4+ AR in 0.3% of participants, more frequently in those ≥60 years old than in those