Assessment of Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) among Iraqi Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) rank on the top of the list of the main 10 causes of death in Iraq. Several risk factors contribute to these diseases. Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)  has been well-established as a significant key determinant of high risk of CVD. In Iraq,  few available studies have assessed the LDL-C among Iraqi patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Therefore, in this study we aimed to assess the LDL-C levels among AMI Iraqi patients in addition to other risk factors. We thought that this study will fill a portion of the knowledge gap in this topic and will add to the growing literature in our country and could be suggestive for preventive strategies targeting the reduction of the burden of AMI and mortalities. Hence, we conducted this cross-sectional study and included 100 Iraqi patients presented with AMI and admitted to the coronary care unit during a period of 18 months. All routine investigations and lipid profile  were performed. Patients were managed according to the standard protocols that applied at our hospital . Our findings showed that 69% of the patients were older than 50 years and 74% were men, 76% were overweight/obese, elevated LDL-C reported in 29% of the patients. In conclusion,  elevated LDL levels in AMI were higher than that reported in general population, that indicates a preserved link between higher LDL-C levels and the risk of AMI. Additionally, Male gender, older age, overweight/obesity and lower HDL-C level were likely to be risk factors of AMI, independently or combined. We recommend monitoring and management of hyperlipidemia in AMI patients at acute phase and at long-term management and follow-up