[ECG abnormalities in the MONICA Gent-Charleroi study population]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities are key indicators for diagnosing CHD.
• Understanding sex-specific prevalence and risk factors for ECG abnormalities is crucial for targeted prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of ECG abnormalities suggestive of CHD in an adult population.
• To compare the association of these abnormalities with demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors between men and women.
• To identify sex-specific risk factors for ECG abnormalities indicative of CHD.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a random sample of adults (25-64 years) from Ghent and Charleroi.
• A total of 1693 participants were included, with ECGs analyzed using the Minnesota code.
• Multivariate discriminant function analysis was employed to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• Overall prevalence of ECG abnormalities suggestive of CHD was 6.1%, with similar rates in men (6.2%) and women (6.0%).
• Men with abnormal ECGs were more likely to be older, have higher systolic blood pressure, and be married.
• Women with abnormal ECGs were older, had lower HDL levels, and were less educated.

Conclusions:

• Despite similar prevalence, ECG abnormalities associated with CHD differ in their correlation with infarction history and risk factors between sexes.
• Risk factor profiles for ECG abnormalities are not uniform across genders, highlighting the need for sex-specific approaches in CHD risk assessment.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the complex interplay of factors contributing to sex disparities in cardiovascular health.