Acute Coronary Syndrome Incidence, Risk Factors, Treatment, and Consequences among Cardiovascular Patients Attending Assiut University Heart Hospital

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the world's leading cause of death, globally exceeding 18 million fatalities annually. Among the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries, Egypt ranked 15th globally in terms of cardiovascular mortality. It was the second-highest country in the region, as reported by the WHO. An estimated $25 billion per year could be saved by a 10% decrease in mortality from ischemic heart disease (IHD), which would significantly offset the costs of preventive programs. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the primary cause of death for Egyptian hospitalized patients, despite advances in thrombolytic treatments and percutaneous coronary intervention. Aim: This present study aims to determine the incidence of ACS among CVD patients in a tertiary care center, characterize demographic and clinical risk factors, and mortality. Methods: A prospective observational study was performed on ACS patients attending Assiut University Heart Hospital. Results: Out of 4,755 cardiovascular patients attending Assiut University Heart Hospital between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, 371 were diagnosed with ACS, yielding an incidence of 7.8%. Three hundred and twenty-seven patients had ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) (88.1%). The most predominant risk factors were hypertension (48.25%), smoking (43.9%), dyslipidemia (38%), and diabetes (35.6%). The most common complications were heart failure in 85 (22.9%), and hypotension in 38 (10.20%) patients. Patient mortality in ACS was 7%. Conclusion: CVD represents a severe burden among Egyptians. Therefore, implementing a screening program to mitigate risk factors may decrease the incidence of ACS and its complications, thereby improving outcomes.