Clinical and demographic characteristics of patients with Coronary Artery Disease: Insights from a single-center study.

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Pakistan, with chronic total occlusion (CTO) representing an advanced and challenging manifestation. Understanding the demographic, clinical, and angiographic profiles of affected patients is essential for improving management and prevention strategies. This study aimed to investigate the demographic, clinical, and angiographic characteristics of patients with CAD and CTO presenting to a tertiary cardiac center in Pakistan.

Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, between February 2024 – January 2025. Adult patients (≥18 years) with angiographically confirmed CAD and CTO were enrolled. Data on demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, clinical presentations, and angiographic features were collected using a structured proforma and analyzed with SPSS v26.

Results: Among 117 patients, 73.5% were male, and the majority were older than 50 years. Hypertension (66.7%), diabetes mellitus (53.8%), and tobacco use (38.5%) were the most prevalent risk factors. Multivessel involvement was common, with unstable angina and NSTEMI as the dominant presentations. The right coronary artery was most frequently affected (52.1%). Age stratification revealed a higher burden of hypertension and multivessel CAD in older patients.

Conclusion: CAD with CTO in Pakistan predominantly affects older men and is strongly associated with hypertension, diabetes, and tobacco use. The high prevalence of multivessel disease and advanced clinical presentation highlights the urgent need for targeted preventive measures, early screening, and equitable access to cardiovascular care.