Lipid disorders in hospital attendants in Kumasi, Ghana

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

• Lipid disorders represent a significant global health concern, contributing substantially to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
• Understanding the local prevalence of these conditions is vital for targeted public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain the prevalence of lipid disorders among adult patients presenting at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, Ghana.
• To assess lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted at KATH outpatient clinics.
• 424 adult patients (≥20 years) were recruited, categorized by diabetes mellitus (DM) and systemic hypertension (HPT) status.
• Data collection involved questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical analyses for lipid parameters and atherogenic index.

Main Results:

• High prevalence rates were observed: 60% for high total cholesterol (TC), 32% for high triglycerides (TG), 17% for low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and 61% for high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL).
• Mean lipid values were TC: 5.33 mmol/L, TG: 1.52 mmol/L, HDL: 1.65 mmol/L, and LDL: 3.42 mmol/L.
• The mean atherogenic index (TC/HDL) was 3.40, with 9% exhibiting an index ≥ 5.

Conclusions:

• Lipid disorders are highly prevalent in the adult patient population in Kumasi.
• There is an urgent need to enhance awareness, screening, detection, treatment, and control strategies for lipid disorders in this region.