Socio-cultural and healthcare characteristics associated with coronary artery disease in women. A case-control study

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are a public health problem. In this group, coronary artery disease has shown an increase, in particular, in the prevalence of acute myocardial infarction in 35-54-year-old women. The World Health Organization suggests studying this issue based on regional differences to find solutions. Objective: To analyze socio-cultural and healthcare characteristics associated with coronary artery disease in women from Nariño. Materials and Methods: Case study (women with coronary artery disease) and controls (women without coronary artery disease) served in reference institutions of Nariño. The sample was made of 35 cases and 105 controls through non-probability sampling. Results: Features such as being a smoker, hypertensive and living in an urban area showed greater association with coronary artery disease: Odd ratios= 21.11, CI 95% 3.97-112.26 and Odd ratios= 9.47, CI 95% 2.87-31.23, accordingly. A proportion of women with coronary artery disease stand out as culturally characterized by keeping their illness a secret not to worry others. Discussion: Being a smoker and hypertensive are key factors to develop coronary heart disease, these situations can be induced by family, social, cultural and occupational issues faced by women. Conclusions: Women with coronary artery disease were characterized as being smokers, hypertensive and living in an urban area, it is thus necessary to generate specific prevention and control strategies for women. © 2019 by the Author(s).