Magnitude and Causes of Sudden Cardiac Death in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital: A Retrospective Autopsy Study

Background: Sudden cardiac death poses a significant global health challenge; however, its extent and causes are not well documented in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and underlying causes of sudden cardiac death at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia's Tigray region. Methods: retrospective data of autopsy records spanning from January 2014 to December 2023 from the autopsy records was collected using standardized checklist .Demographic information, death circumstances, autopsy findings, and underlying causes of death were analyzed. Results: Among all autopsied cases, 4.91% were identified as sudden cardiac deaths, with a predominance of males and a median age of 49. The leading cause was atherosclerotic coronary artery narrowing, followed by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease was the main cause in individuals aged > 35 years, whereas hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was the most common cause in those aged ≤ 35 years. Conclusion: This study highlights the prevalence and causes of sudden cardiac death in Ethiopia's Tigray region. These findings underscore the necessity for enhanced interventions targeting cardiovascular risk factors, especially coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of improved autopsy practices and documentation to better comprehend and tackle the burden of sudden cardiac death in resource-constrained settings.