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Epidemiology of ARDS.
1Department of Anesthesiology, Intensivm Care and Pain Therapye, Elisabeth-Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
Minerva Anestesiologica
|May 10, 2006
Summary
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and ALI incidence are higher than previously thought. These widespread diseases have a significant socio-economic impact, comparable to major health conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Critical Care
Background:
- The incidence of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been historically unclear.
- Early estimates in 1972 suggested 75 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year in the USA.
- Population-based studies in Europe yielded lower figures (1.5-4.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year).
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the incidence of ARDS and Acute Lung Injury (ALI).
- To assess the current epidemiological burden of ARDS and ALI.
- To understand the socio-economic impact of these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized refined ARDS and ALI definitions from the American-European Consensus Conference (1992).
- Conducted population-based epidemiological studies.
- Analyzed incidence data from recent high-class epidemiological research in Seattle.
Main Results:
- Incidence figures for ARDS ranged from 13-23 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year with refined definitions.
- ALI incidence was reported at 18 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year.
- Recent Seattle study indicated ARDS/ALI incidence of 59 and 79 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year, respectively.
Conclusions:
- ARDS and ALI are not rare syndromes but widespread diseases.
- The incidence is significantly higher than previously estimated by many studies.
- These conditions pose a massive socio-economic burden comparable to major diseases like cancer and heart disease.