Predictors of Mortality at 1 Year After Discharge in Heart Failure Patientsa Study From Tertiary Care in South India

Abstract

BACKGROUND Heart Failure (HF) is a leading cause of hospitalisation and death across the globe. An idea about predictors of mortality can help physician in patient prognosis as well as decision making about the type and intensity of care of hospitalised patients. The aim of the present study is to identify clinical factors that predict mortality at one year post discharge in HF patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single centre observational study included 327 patients with HF. Patient mortality at one year follow up was identified and was correlated with various clinical factors including gender, anaemia, renal malfunction, ejection fraction <40% and NYHA class IV. Cox regression analysis was applied to identify relative risk of each clinical factor. RESULTS The one year post discharge mortality rate was 8.2%. NYHA Class IV, EF <40% and male gender were identified as strong predictors of mortality while anaemia and renal malfunction were reported as moderate predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION The study further confirms the significant mortality rates in HF patients even at one year follow up. We suggest that patients at high risk such as those with NYHA class IV, EF <40% and male gender be treated with more intensive treatment plans.