2019 cardio-vascular risk and socioeconomic classification in central Portugal

Abstract

Abstract Background The relationship between Cardiovascular Risk (CVR) and the socio-economic family classification (SEC) by the Graffar Index in the Portuguese General and Family Medicine setting is still unknown being an impoirtant Health determinant. SEC interferes with disease perception altering possible health out-comes. Use of specific tools can improve patient’s guidance. So the knowledge of the frequency of estimation of CVR and SEC to understand how they were distributed and related in the Primary Care population of Central Portugal, according to sex, age and place of residence was made using Primary Care generated data. Methods Cross-sectional observational study based on informatics data in anonymity of the population attending all the National Health Service Primary Care Health Units in Central Portugal in December 31, 2019, aged [40–65] years with descriptive and non-parametric analysis at P < 0.05. Results In a Universe of 707 806 CVR was calculated for 27.9%, SEC for 2.5% and both simultaneously for 1.2%. CVR distribution was different by gender (P < 0.001), High/very high risk more prevalent in males. By age group, High/Very high CVR was more prevalent in those over 60 years of age (P < 0.001) and if residing in the southern and more in-land locations presenting a higher risk (P < 0.001). High/very high CVR was more frequent in SEC lower classes (P = 0.047). Conclusions Cardiovascular risk and socioeconomic status were simultaneously registered in 1.2% of the population. Highest Cardiovascular Risk is more frequent in lower SEC classes, males, older and residing in the southern region. Docotr's awareness on these themes mst be increased.