Assessment of heart rate variability (HRV) and cardiac ectopic beats is a clinically relevant topic. The present exploratory observational study aimed to inspect the relationships of lifestyle, dietary patterns, and anthropometrics with HRV, premature ventricular complexes (PVCs), and supraventricular premature complexes (SVPCs). A cross-sectional study enrolling subjects undergoing Holter monitoring was performed. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, body composition (full-body bio-impedentiometry), dietary patterns (validated food frequency questionnaire and 24 h dietary recall), and quality of life were assessed. Generalized additive models were estimated to evaluate the relationships between outcomes of interest and variables collected. The study enrolled 121 consecutive patients undergoing 24 h Holter monitoring. Upon univariable analysis, HRV was found to have an inverse association with mass of body fat (MBF) (p-value 0.015), while doing physical activity was associated with a significantly higher HRV (p-value 0.036). Upon multivariable analysis, fruit consumption in the 24 h dietary recall was found to be directly associated with HRV (p-value 0.044). The present findings might be useful for improving the management of patients attending cardiac rhythm labs, and to tailor ad hoc prevention strategies (modification of lifestyle and eating habits) based on Holter parameters.

Background Falls are the most frequent domestic accidents and their impact on subjects' quality of life, healthcare system and potentially serious complications, make their prevention fundamental. 80% of patients with Parkinson's disease fall in their homes, therefore the prevention of falls becomes a priority in caring for these patients. The aim of the study is to identify the evidence relating to home falls prevention interventions in patients with Parkinson's disease. Methods A literature review was performed considering articles published between 2000 and 2017 and indexed in PubMed, Cinhal and Cochrane Library. 655 articles were identified and 28 selected and considered for review. Results Four macro types of intervention have been identified: environmental and educational interventions, through the preparation of aids, lighting systems, room adaptation, adequate footwear and involvement of caregivers; physical and rehabilitative interventions, through programs of Qigong Baduanjin, Hi-Balance, Tai-Chi, Ai-Chi, vestibular rehabilitation and exercises marked by the metronome; pharmacological interventions, through a continuous infusion system of Rivastigmine or Levodopa; alternative therapies such as vitamin C and Macuna Pruriens. Conclusions The available literature points out the effectiveness of multiple interventions in reducing the risk of falling at home for Parkinson's disease patients. To ensure these interventions, a multidisciplinary team management is needed. This approach allows an improvement in the management of the Parkinsonian patient, promoting the maintenance of health and quality of life, preventing complications and optimizing subject's residual abilities and promoting caregivers' involvement. Key messages The literature points out the effectiveness of multiple interventions in reducing the risk of falling at home for Parkinson's disease patients. Four macro types of intervention have been identified: environmental and educational, physical and rehabilitative interventions, pharmacological and alternative therapies.