Association between heart failure and consumption of ultra-processed foods in older adults: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective To estimate the prevalence of heart failure (HF) and explore its potential association with the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in older adults. Method This cross-sectional study utilized medical records of 1,322 older adults (55% women; mean age of 70.4 years) treated in primary health care facilities in the state of Roraima, Brazil. A cardiologist diagnosed HF based on diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, clinical evaluation, and analysis of medical history. Nutritionists assessed UPF consumption using a nationally standardized form commonly employed in Brazilian primary health care units. Results The findings revealed that 15.4% of older adults had HF. Significant associations were observed between UPF groups and HF, with the probability of HF ranging from OR=1.97 (95% CI=1.36–2.84) for the consumption of hamburgers and/or sausages to OR=2.59 (95% CI=1.73–3.74) for the consumption of filled biscuits, sweets, and treats. Conclusion The consumption of UPF was associated with a high prevalence of HF in this sample of Brazilian older adults. Policymakers and healthcare professionals directly involved with this population should collaborate on targeted interventions and guidelines to reduce UPF consumption and increase the intake of unprocessed foods.