Ischemic heart disease in patients: Incidence, risk factors, management and outcomes in tertiary care hospital

Ischemic heart disease stands as the primary cause of death globally, impacting both developed and developing nations alike. Despite a decline in mortality rates in affluent countries, IHD still claims a significant one-third of lives among those aged 35 and above which necessitates urgent comprehensive strategies to mitigate its growing burden on cardiovascular health worldwide. This study aims to evaluate the incidence, risk factors, management, and outcomes of hospitalized IHD cases in a tertiary care setting. Conducted over six months, the prospective cross-sectional study included 303 adult inpatients diagnosed with IHD, excluding pregnant women, psychiatric patients, and children. Data collected from patient records, laboratory tests, and imaging studies were meticulously analysed using statistical software to determine frequencies, percentages, and mean values. Among 6,897 inpatients observed, IHD cases accounted for 4.39%, predominantly affecting males aged 51-60. Risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol consumption, and a family history of cardiovascular diseases were prevalent. Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) was the most common presentation, managed primarily with antiplatelet and antihyperlipidemic therapies. Percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting was performed in 92% of surgical cases, resulting in clinical improvement for 92.4% of patients with a low mortality rate of 1.7%. This study underscores the higher prevalence of IHD in middle-aged males with specific risk factors. It highlights effective treatment outcomes and emphasizes the ongoing need for targeted preventive measures and management strategies to reduce the impact of IHD globally.