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Prevalence of atherosclerosis of the aorta in Ethiopians: a postmortem study

M Maru1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Gondar College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia.

East African Medical Journal
|April 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta are common in Ethiopians aged 10+, found in nearly half of autopsies. Fatty streaks dominate in younger individuals, while fibrous and calcified plaques increase with age.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Pathology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is a significant global health concern.
  • Understanding the prevalence and patterns of aortic atherosclerosis in diverse populations is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and types of atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta.
  • To analyze the age-related progression of these lesions in an Ethiopian population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 124 autopsy cases from Ethiopia.
  • Macroscopic examination and classification of atherosclerotic lesions in the thoracic and abdominal aorta.

Main Results:

  • Atherosclerotic lesions were identified in 47% of autopsies (58/124).
  • Fatty streaks (32%) were the most common lesion, prevalent in individuals under 60.
  • Fibrous plaques (23%) showed a significant increase after age 40, peaking at 80% by age 70-79.
  • Calcified (6%) and complicated (4%) lesions appeared after age 40, with increased prevalence post-60.

Conclusions:

  • Atherosclerotic lesions are present in nearly half of Ethiopians aged 10 and above.
  • The progression of aortic atherosclerosis shows distinct patterns based on lesion type and age.
  • Findings highlight the importance of considering atherosclerosis in Ethiopian autopsy studies.

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