Study of cardiovascular risk factor profile among first-degree relatives of patients with premature coronary artery disease at Kota, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Background: Traditional cardiovascular risk factors are strong predictors of an increased likelihood for premature CHD. Considering the benefits of risk factors᾿ management, it is imperative to find and treat them before looking for more unknown and weak risk factors. The objectives of the study was to determine the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors in first degree relatives of the patients with premature coronary artery disease. Methods: The study was conducted under the department of Preventive and Social Medicine and patients were enrolled from the Department of Cardiology of GMC Hospital, Kota to screen the first- degree relatives of the patients suffering from premature CAD, for the presence of risk factors. For the purpose of study, 200 consecutive patients admitted in the cardiac care units of GMC Hospital, Kota with the primary diagnosis of premature coronary artery disease were enrolled. These patients’ 643 first-degree relatives, who were in the coronary age group were included in the study. Inclusion criteria were age (25 years and above), residence (residing within Jaipur city) were enrolled for the purpose of the study. Results: Out of total 643 study subjects approximately half were in middle age group (31-50 years). 66.9% of the relatives of CAD patients were males and females represented 33.1% of the study population. 66% of the first-degree relatives of the patients suffering from premature CAD were from Social class II, III and IV. approximately 50% of first degree relatives of CAD patients were bearing 1 or more CAD risk factors. Hypertension was present in 29.7 % of the relatives suffering from Premature CAD. Diabetes mellitus and high lipid levels affected 13.0 % and 10.1 % relatives respectively. 47.5% of the relatives were either obese or leading a sedentary life style while 27.7% were smokers. Conclusions: Premature Coronary Heart Disease is a public health problem. However, there is lack of effective and intensive treatments of well-defined traditional risk factors and prevention methods for the majority of the patients experiencing premature CHD. In sum, there is still plenty of room for improvement of risk management in India.