2023-08-02 03:45:00
Heart Disease, Particularly Heart Failure, a Growing Concern in Asia-Pacific Region
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in Thailand and across the world, with heart failure being the major cause of death from heart disease in the Asia-Pacific region. The aging population has led to an increase in the number of heart disease patients in the region, currently totaling more than 32 million. Additionally, the recurrence rate exceeds 6 million if patients do not take proper care of themselves.
Heart failure, or the weakening of the heart’s ability to pump blood normally, is a condition that affects a growing number of individuals in the Asia-Pacific region. Factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes have contributed to the prevalence of heart failure cases. In addition to being a heavy burden on the healthcare system in terms of medical care and loss of life, the cost of treating heart failure in the Asia-Pacific region exceeds $48 billion.
Dr. Ekarat Ariyachaipanich, a cardiovascular pathologist at Chulalongkorn Hospital and Director of the Heart Association of Thailand, highlighted the growing concern of heart disease and heart failure. He noted that heart disease is the number one cause of death in Thailand and many other countries, often surpassing the mortality rates of cancer. The prevalence of heart failure is also higher in the elderly population, with 1 in 5 individuals having a chance of developing the condition.
The main causes of heart failure are attributed to coronary artery disease and other factors such as genetics, heart infections, and heart valve disease. Additionally, lifestyle factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity contribute to the development of heart failure. These chronic non-communicable diseases lead to a higher risk of heart failure.
Although heart failure can have severe consequences, it is a treatable condition. In foreign countries, approximately 30% of patients with heart failure experience symptom improvement or complete resolution with proper care, while another third of patients remain stable. The remaining one-third may experience worsening symptoms. Previously, the chance of death within 5 years of heart failure diagnosis was as high as 50%. However, advancements in medical treatment and patient self-care have reduced the mortality rate.
Establishing heart failure clinics is one of the best forms of care for heart failure patients, according to Dr. Ekarat. These clinics, already present in major cities and medical schools, provide the necessary tools, medicines, and technology for managing heart failure. However, there is a shortage of certified heart failure specialists in Thailand. While cardiologists can treat heart failure, patients in advanced stages of the condition should be under the care of a heart failure physician.
In severe cases where medication or pacemakers do not improve symptoms, heart transplantation may be considered. However, heart transplantation has limitations, including age restrictions and the presence of other diseases that may compromise the patient’s quality of life. In Thailand, about 30 heart transplant patients are identified each year.
To ensure proper diagnosis and care, Dr. Ekarat emphasized the importance of early detection through medical history, physical examinations, and heart ultrasounds. However, access to heart ultrasounds can be limited in Thailand, particularly in provinces, with wait times of 3 to 4 months. The blood protein test NT-proBNP has proven to be a valuable tool in diagnosing heart failure, aiding clinicians in more effective treatment.
Proper self-care is crucial for heart failure patients, especially in older individuals. Close monitoring, continued care, and timely medication adjustments can significantly reduce the rate of hospitalization and improve outcomes for patients. Patients are encouraged to return to their doctors within 7 days of leaving the hospital and closely follow medication regimens to prevent re-hospitalization.
With the increasing prevalence of heart disease and heart failure in the Asia-Pacific region, it is imperative to prioritize early detection, proper care, and patient education to combat this growing health concern.]
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