Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Veterans With Bipolar Disorder

Background: Bipolar disorder is associated with significant personal and societal costs, and represents a substantial burden to the VA. Medical conditions, notably cardiovascular disease (CVD), are substantial contributors to increased morbidity and mortality in patients with bipolar disorder, in part because of behavioral and treatment factors. Despite the existence of effective medications for managing CVD-related risk factors (e.g., hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity), outcomes for these conditions remain suboptimal among patients with bipolar disorder.

Objectives: The immediate objective of this study is to determine whether a manual-based Chronic Care Model (CCM) intervention compared to usual VA care improves control of intermediate physiological measures that represent risk factors of CVD for veterans with bipolar disorder. We hypothesize that, within 12 months of the intervention initiation, patients receiving the CCM intervention will be more likely to demonstrate improved control of CVD-related risk factors (blood pressure, fasting cholesterol) and report improved physical health-related quality of life.

Methods: This is a prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind, single-site behavioral intervention trial of adult patients with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder receiving care in the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System. Up to 300 subjects will be enrolled, of which 150 will be randomized to receive the intervention and 150 will receive usual VA care. All subjects will complete a baseline clinical assessment and then subsequent follow-up assessments at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The intervention's three core components will be implemented by a nurse Care Manager and include: 1) self-management behavioral sessions for patients addressing the reduction of CVD risk factors through symptom control and behavior change based on Social Cognitive Theory, 2) care management to promote patient behavior change and coordinate care, and 3) implementation of practice guidelines for providers on management of CVD risk factors in patients with bipolar disorder. Medical and psychiatric care, including medications, will continue to be provided by the patient's usual providers. Usual VA care will be enhanced and consist of guideline implementation and general patient education (attention control), but will not include self-management sessions or Care Manager contacts. Primary clinical outcomes include changes in cholesterol, and health-related quality of life (SF-12 physical health summary score). Linear regression models will be used to determine the effect of the intervention on each outcome. Mediators of treatment effect including symptoms and health behaviors will also be assessed.