Clinical Conditions, Coronary Risk Factors and Lipids Disorders Treatment in Patients who Visit a Cardiologist in his Consulting Room

pp 57-63

Abstract

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are common in Argentina.The prevalence in general population of coronary risk factors, has been extensively investigated, but little is known about its prevalence on subjects who visit the cardiologist in the consulting room.

Objectives

Assess the prevalence of coronary risk factors and clinical conditions and their influence on drug treatment of lipid disorders in patients who visit the cardiologist.

Methods

Between October and December 1993, 6189 patients were interviewed. The were included without age limit, after their third visit to one of the 407 participant cardiologists.

Results

Ischaemic heart disease was present in 46% of men and 25% of women included. Sedentarism (80%), hypertension (70%) and hypercholesterolemia (60%) were the most frequent risk factors. Cigarette smoking was present in 29% of men and 11% of women. High cholesterol, ischaemic heart disease and low HDL-cholesterol values were associated with drug treatment of lipid disorders.

Conclusions

The study confirms a high risk population among those who visit the cardiologist in the consulting room and underline the importance of preventive measures against coronary risk factors.