Publication:

Prevalence of coronary artery disease and the associated risk factors among the patients attending the medicine department in a tertiary care teaching hospital in the North Eastern Zone in India

Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is characterized by the narrowing or obstruction of coronary arteries, leading to inadequate blood supply to the heart. In India, CAD has become a major public health issue, particularly in the North Eastern Zone. This study aims to illuminate CAD, its causes, and its unique prevalence patterns within India, with a specific focus on the North Eastern Zone.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted over a year at a tertiary care teaching hospital in India's North Eastern Zone. A sample of 154 patients with coronary artery disease was selected through structured questionnaires, clinical examinations, vital signs assessments, and 12-lead ECGs. Data analysis was done with proper equipment.

Results The study revealed an overall CAD prevalence of 4.24% among 2468 patients attending the Medicine OPD. Males had a higher prevalence across age groups, except for the 20-30-year-olds, where no females participated. Urban areas exhibited a significantly higher CAD prevalence (68.83%) compared to rural areas (31.17%). Statistically significant gender differences were observed in several risk factors, with males more likely to exhibit hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, obesity, smoking, and ischemic heart disease. Urban residents also showed a higher prevalence of various CAD risk factors compared to rural residents, except for alcohol consumption, which was more common in rural areas.

Conclusions The findings corroborate existing literature, highlighting gender disparities and urban-rural differences in CAD prevalence and risk factors. This study contributes valuable insights into CAD epidemiology in India, particularly in the North Eastern Zone.