[Pathology of cardiovascular system among hemodialysis patients in Lithuania]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
• Understanding the prevalence of CVD and its risk factors in this population is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Lithuania's hemodialysis patient population represents a significant cohort for studying cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and associated risk factors among hemodialysis patients in Lithuania.
• To assess the baseline cardiovascular health status of patients initiating hemodialysis.
• To evaluate adherence to diagnostic quality standards for cardiovascular assessment in dialysis centers.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2002.
• Data were collected from 602 hemodialysis patients across 20 dialysis centers in Lithuania.
• Cardiovascular disease diagnoses included ischemic heart disease (myocardial infarction, angina pectoris), hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, overweight, and obesity.

Main Results:

• Ischemic heart disease was diagnosed in 34.9% of patients, with many presenting with pre-existing cardiovascular pathology at the start of dialysis.
• Hypertension was prevalent in 45.3% of patients.
• Significant risk factors included left ventricular hypertrophy (approx. 80%), smoking (approx. 50%), overweight (31%), and obesity (12.5%).
• Inadequate diagnostic procedures were noted, with 50% not undergoing echocardiography and one-third not having chest X-rays.

Conclusions:

• Hemodialysis patients in Lithuania exhibit a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and risk factors.
• A substantial number of patients initiate hemodialysis with established cardiovascular conditions.
• There is a need to improve diagnostic attention and adherence to quality standards for cardiovascular care in dialysis settings.