Use of cardiac glycosides in Finland

The prevalence and number of persons receiving cardiac glycosides were estimated in connection with a general health survey. A population sample (n = 8000) representative of the adult Finnish population was studied. According to a questionnaire and an interview, about 10% of men and 11% of women were receiving cardiac glycosides. The total number of glycoside users in Finland was estimated at 311 000 (95% confidence limits 289 000-333 000). A significant serum digitalis concentration definitely indicating digitalis use was observed in about 9% of men and 10% of women. By this method the minimum number of persons receiving digitalis therapy was estimated at 248 000 (95% confidence limits 227 000-269 000). About 90% of all glycoside consumption appeared to take place outside institutions. The prevalence of glycoside use increased greatly with advancing age and tended to be higher in women than in men. The prevalence varied significantly between regions within the country. Further research is required to explain the unusually prevalent and geographically variable use of cardiac glycosides in Finland.