Chromosome 9p21 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Heart Disease Risk

A meta-analysis clarifies the risk associated with genotype, but the clinical value of genetic testing is by no means clear.

Findings from multiple studies have demonstrated associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on chromosome 9p21 and cardiovascular disease (e.g., JW Cardiol Feb 4 2009 and Jul 18 2007). To assess the strength and magnitude of these associations, investigators performed a systematic review of 47 distinct datasets from 22 studies of 9p21 SNPs and heart disease.

The analysis included 35,872 case patients and 95,837 controls. Compared with individuals with one 9p21 risk allele, individuals with two risk alleles had an odds ratio (OR) for heart disease of 1.25 (95% confidence interval, 1.21–1.29), and those with no risk alleles had an OR of 0.80 (CI, 0.77–0.82). Interestingly, the ORs differed according to age at disease onset. In…

Reviewing Author

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)