Heart Failure Unveiled: A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence and Determinants in a Tertiary Care Setting

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death worldwide, with 17.7 million deaths in 2015, accounting for 31% of global fatalities. Low- and middle-income countries, such as Bangladesh, bear a disproportionate share of this burden. Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among the Bangladeshi population and identify key factors contributing to its rise. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Shaheed M. Monsur Ali Medical College and Hospital, Sirajganj, from July 2022 to July 2023. A total of 172 patients were included in the study. Sociodemographic data, medical history, and lifestyle factors were collected through structured interviews and medical records. Laboratory tests for cholesterol, creatinine, and SGPT were performed. Results: The study revealed that 69.8% of participants had hypertension, 57.0% had diabetes mellitus, and 47.7% were obese. Smoking history was present in 33.7% of participants, while 58.1% did not engage in regular physical exercise. Laboratory findings showed elevated cholesterol in 65.7% of patients, elevated creatinine in 38.4%, and abnormal SGPT levels in 29.1%. Significant associations were found between CVD and hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and lack of physical exercise. Conclusion: The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases is high among the Bangladeshi population, with significant associations to hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions and improved surveillance systems to address the growing CVD burden in Bangladesh.