In This Issue on 24-June-2024

Han JY, et al.

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of NOAC (non-vitamin K-antagonist oral anticoagulant) monotherapy versus NOAC plus antiplatelet combination therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) beyond one year after coronary revascularization. Using Korean national insurance data from 2015 to 2020, the researchers analyzed 3,275 matched pairs from 4,465 individuals. Over a median follow-up of 1.24 years, the incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was similar between groups. However, NOAC monotherapy had a significantly lower incidence of major bleeding compared to the combination therapy. In conclusion, NOAC monotherapy was associated with a similar risk of MACCE and a lower risk of major bleeding compared to NOAC plus antiplatelet combination therapy.

Shin JY, et al.

This study assessed the cardiovascular safety of COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients in Korea using data from the K-COV-N cohort (2018–2021). Among 318,105 cancer patients, 4,754 experienced cardiovascular outcomes. There was no overally increased cardiovascular risk post-vaccination. However, an increased risk of myocarditis was observed, while no increased risk was noted for myocardial infarction, stroke, VTE, or pericarditis. COVID-19 vaccination demonstrated an overall safe profile on CV outcomes for patients with cancer, although increased risks of myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination were observed.

Lee DH, et al.

This study explores the link between glycemic control and oral health in diabetic patients. It found that patients with diabetes had a higher incidence of periodontitis, complete denture use, and high DMFT index. Poor glycemic control was associated with lower frequency of tooth brushing and fewer remaining teeth. The study underscores the importance of oral health management and effective glycemic control strategies for overall health and well-being in diabetic patients.

Choi UY, et al.

This study investigated antibiotic prescription patterns for laryngotracheobronchitis (croup) in Korean children, emphasizing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) concerns. Analyzing data from 2017–2020 for children ≤ 5 years, 35.2% of 2,358,194 prescriptions contained antibiotics. Key factors for higher antibiotic prescriptions included management in hospitals, clinics, and general hospitals, along with patient age ≤ 2 years, pediatric specialist care, and non-metropolitan hospital locations. Extended spectrum penicillins were the most prescribed, followed by cephalosporins and macrolides. The study suggests focusing antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) on these factors to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and AMR.