Changes in prevalence of and prescribing for ischaemic heart disease in Ireland 1990-2002

Background Secondary prevention therapies, such as angiotension converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers and statins, are known to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Objective The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of Coronary heart disease (CHD) and the prescribing of secondary preventive therapies in the period 1990-2002. Methods The General Medical Services prescription database was used to identify the study cohort, those with CHD, in each year 1990-2002. C H D was defined in two ways: prescription of any nitrate, and co-prescription of nitrate and aspirin. In addition, co-prescription of secondary preventive agents including statins, ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers were examined. Results We found a significant increasing prevalence of CHD from 1990 to 2002 in both men and women. There was a significant increase (p<0.0001) in the prescribing rate for 9 blockers,ACE inhibitors, and for statins, but a significant decrease (p<0.0001) for calcium channel blockers. Conclusion These trends reflect the growing evidence base on the effectiveness of secondary preventive therapies, and the implementation of the National Cardiovascular Health Strategy.