Prevalence of Myocardial Infarction in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review

Tariq M Shaqran1, Renad S Almutairi2, Elaf J Zurayyir3

  • 1Family Medicine, King Salman Armed Forces Hospital, Tabuk, SAU.

Cureus
|August 19, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Heart attacks (myocardial infarction) are a significant health issue in Saudi Arabia. Lifestyle choices and medical conditions increase risk, necessitating healthier habits to reduce incidence.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Myocardial infarction (MI), or heart attack, occurs when blood supply to the heart muscle is reduced.
  • Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of MI, a leading cause of mortality globally.
  • MI can lead to myocardial cell death, chest pain, and hemodynamic instability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and prevalence of myocardial infarction (MI) in Saudi Arabia.
  • To review existing literature on heart attack prevalence in the Saudi population.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of English-language papers published between 2000 and 2024.
  • Analysis of four selected articles, primarily utilizing surveys and national database studies.

Main Results:

  • Heart attacks represent a significant health concern within Saudi Arabia.
  • Identified risk factors include specific lifestyle choices and prevalent medical conditions.
  • The review identified four relevant studies on MI incidence in the region.

Conclusions:

  • Myocardial infarction is a major health issue in Saudi Arabia.
  • Promoting healthier lifestyle choices is crucial for reducing heart attack rates.
  • Further research may be needed to fully understand MI epidemiology in the region.