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In this next edition, we look at the most read articles in March 2024.
We have several new additions with studies investigating area-level inequalities in Great Britain, to the relationship between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and long-term mortality.
Have a look below to learn more about the fascinating studies that have made the top 10 list.
Dusin et al. carried out a scoping review, looking at current evidence-based practice models and frameworks in healthcare settings and how this aligns with the original evidence-based model. 19 models and frameworks were included and the results showed that many models and frameworks are used, with the authors noting that the user must possess evidence-based practice expertise in order to assess evidence. The models and frameworks also varied with regards to the level of instruction to assess evidence, and there were seven models and frameworks which integrated patient values and preferences. The authors note that this is a comprehensive review, however the review did not assess the quality of the models and frameworks that were cited in the studies.
Höhn et al. investigated area-level inequalities and described an approach for estimating quality-adjusted life expectancy for local authorities. The study looked at the association between inclusive economy indicators and quality-adjusted life expectancy. The results found that quality-adjusted life expectancy estimates were lowest in Scotland, and highest in England. Although the authors used a small-area approach to model mortality rates and health state utility score, which is transferable across national contexts, they note that the differences in sampling strategies and non-response bias may have contributed to differences in health state utility scores between areas.
In a cohort study by Kip et al., the association between long-term mortality among primary prevention adults not on lipid-lowering therapy was investigated. Electronic medical record data was extracted and over 177,000 adults were evaluated. The results found that for those without diabetes and not on statin therapy, the lowest risk for long-term mortality seemed to exist in the wide LDL-C range of 100–189 mg/dL. The authors note that this is much higher than current recommendations. This study utilised a ‘real-world’ sample of adults with long-term follow up, however the analysis was limited to all-cause mortality.
The top ten most-read papers in BMJ Open during March 2024 are shown below: