Prevalence, Incidence, Diagnosis and Management of Myocardial Infarction in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects a third of the global population, with myocardial infarction (MI) being a severe form primarily caused by coronary artery disease (CAD). Saudi Arabia's urbanization has led to an increase in CAD cases, driven by risk factors like obesity, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Family history also plays a role, especially in younger myocardial infarction (MI) patients. Diagnostic tools include electrocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and imaging. Telemedicine aids in remote diagnosis. Recent studies in Saudi Arabia show chest pain as a common MI symptom, with younger patients more likely to have ST-segment elevation MI. Management follows international guidelines, emphasizing early recognition, emergency medical services intervention, and reperfusion therapy. Medications, including antiplatelets and statins, are used, but gender disparities exist. Cardiac rehabilitation programs and public health initiatives contribute to post-MI care. Despite advancements, challenges like door-to-balloon time persist, requiring further improvements in MI care in Saudi Arabia.