Burden and contributing factors associated with tricuspid regurgitation: a hospital-based study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Echocardiography
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a frequent finding in cardiac assessments, but its prevalence and associated factors require further elucidation.
• Existing data on TR epidemiology are limited, necessitating comprehensive studies in diverse patient populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and demographic characteristics of TR in Chinese patients undergoing echocardiography.
• To identify factors associated with clinically significant TR in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• A large cohort of 6711 consecutive Chinese patients was analyzed as part of the Chinese Valvular Heart Disease Study (CVATS).
• Echocardiography was used to assess valvular heart disease, including TR.
• Statistical analysis, including multivariable adjustment, was performed to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• TR was the most prevalent valvular lesion (54.7%), exceeding mitral and aortic regurgitation.
• Clinically significant TR (moderate or severe) was found in 8.4% of patients.
• TR prevalence increased significantly with age, from 3.9% in those <51 to 15.9% in those ≥81.
• Significant TR was associated with older age, congenital heart disease, COPD, left-sided VHD, low LVEF, atrial fibrillation, and pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusions:

• TR is the most common valvular heart disease in patients referred for echocardiography in this Chinese cohort.
• Clinically significant TR affects 8.4% of patients and is notably more prevalent in older individuals.
• These findings highlight the substantial burden of TR, especially in the aging population, and its association with various comorbidities.