Trends and prevalence of severe hypertriglyceridemia in Pakistan: A 5-year analysis (2019-2023)

Severe hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and acute pancreatitis. Previously, there were no studies or data available from Pakistan regarding this condition. This study aimed to analyze the trends and prevalence of severe HTG in Pakistan over a 5-year period from 2 healthcare centers.

A retrospective analysis of laboratory data from 2 major healthcare centers across Pakistan's 4 provinces was conducted. Demographic information and lipid profiles of patients were collected. HTG was categorized as HTG (≥150 mg/dL), mild HTG (150-199), moderate HTG (200-999), severe HTG (1000-1999 mg/dL), and very severe HTG (≥2000 mg/dL).

A study of 552,719 individuals (mean age 45.9 ± 12.6 years, 58.1% males and 41.9% females) revealed that 53.7% (1:2) were hypertriglyceridemic. Severe HTG was observed in 0.3% (1:286) of the population, while very severe HTG was found in 0.1% (1:861). Both severe and very severe HTG were more prevalent in males, individuals aged under 18 years, and those aged 36 to 45 years. Very severe HTG was most prevalent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (0.2%). Patients with severe HTG presented with mean triglyceride levels of 1308.2 ± 254.7 mg/dL, while those with very severe HTG showed levels of 3293.0 ± 1889.9 mg/dL.

This study revealed that 53.7% of the population had HTG, with severe and very severe HTG affecting 0.3% and 0.1%, respectively. Males, younger individuals, and residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had higher prevalence. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions in high-risk groups.