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Acute myocardial infarction in Zimbabwe: the changing scene of coronary artery disease
J G Hakim1, M G Odwee, S Siziya
1Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Insights
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) affects Black Zimbabweans, who present later for treatment. Early intervention and education programs are crucial to manage the rising incidence of AMI in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) incidence is rising among Black Zimbabweans.
- Understanding ethnic variations in AMI presentation and outcomes is crucial for targeted healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical characteristics, outcomes, and ethnic disparities of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) cases admitted to Parirenyatwa Hospital.
- To identify potential delays in presentation among different ethnic groups and their implications for treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 127 suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI) cases admitted between 1988 and 1993.
- Comparison of clinical features, laboratory findings, and complications across different ethnic groups (Black, White, Indian, Coloured).
Main Results:
- Of 76 confirmed AMI cases, 37 were Black, with a male to female ratio of 5:1.
- Clinical and laboratory features of AMI were similar across ethnic groups.
- Black patients presented significantly later to the hospital compared to other ethnic groups.
Conclusions:
- Delayed hospital presentation in Black Zimbabweans with AMI has significant implications for thrombolytic therapy effectiveness.
- There is an urgent need to evaluate the changing risk factor profile in Black Zimbabweans and implement public health interventions to address the rising AMI rates.
Abstract:
From 1988 to 1993 (six years), 127 suspected cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were admitted to the Parirenyatwa Hospital coronary care unit. AMI was confirmed in 76 cases, 37 were Black, 27 White, six Indian and six Coloured. For Blacks the male to female ratio was 5:1. The clinical and laboratory features and complications of AMI were similar in all ethnic groups. Compared to other groups, Blacks presented to hospital late, an observation which has important implications for thrombolytic therapy. With the increasing number of cases of AMI now being seen among Black Zimbabweans, the time has come for the evaluation of the changing risk factor profile and the initiation of education and intervention programmes which could contain this rise before it spirals into a major health problem.