Temporary Housing Negatively Affects the Clinical Follow-up and Outcome of Myocardial Infarction Patients after the...

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of temporary housing challenges (THC) after the February 6, 2023, Türkiye earthquake on clinical follow-up non-adherence (CFNA), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) target achievement, and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with myocardial infarction (MI).

A retrospective cohort of 283 MI patients undergoing coronary angiography and stenting between May 6 and November 6, 2023, was analyzed. Patients were divided into Group 1 (THC group: residing in container cities) and Group 2 (non-THC group: living in intact/usable homes). Initial laboratory parameters and 1-year MACE incidence were compared. In MACE-free patients, adherence to 5 scheduled face-to-face visits (week 1, months 1, 3, 6, and 12) and LDL-C goal achievement were evaluated. CFNA was defined as attending fewer than 3 visits. One-year lab results were also compared.

THC independently predicted CFNA (OR: 1.925, P = 0.019) and MACE (OR: 3.937, P = 0.006). Follow-up attendance was lower in Group 1 (week 1: 43.2% vs 69.9%, P <0.001; month 12: 82.2% vs 95.1%, P = 0.008). LDL-C target achievement was significantly lower (6.85% vs 31.07%, P <0.001).

THC adversely impacts clinical follow-up adherence and increases MACE rates. Addressing THC's challenges is essential for improving post-disaster health care outcomes.