Galician study of heart failure in primary care (GALICAP study)

Introduction and objectives. Heart failure (HF) is an important public health concern. Our aim was to evaluate the characteristics of HF patients in Galicia, Spain. Methods. This descriptive, cross-sectional, multicenter study involved 149 primary care physicians and recorded the characteristics of 1195 patients diagnosed with HF. Results. Some 48% of patients were male, and their mean age was 76 years, though women were older (P < 001). Disease history included hypertension in 82%, hyperlipidemia in 47%, diabetes in 31%, atrial fibrillation in 49%, valvular disease in 35%, and ischernic heart disease in 32%. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 131 mm Hg and 76 mm Hg, respectively. Pressure was controlled (<= 130/80 mm Hg) in 43% of patients. Overall, 67% underwent echocardiography, of whom 61% had preserved systolic function. Coronary angiography was performed in 47% of patients with ischernic heart disease, more frequently in males than females (P < 001). The most commonly prescribed drugs were diuretics (82%), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (48%), angiotensin 11 receptor antagonists (29%), and beta-blockers (27%). Patients with depressed systolic function were more frequently prescribed beta-blockers (P < 001), ACE inhibitors (P < 01), and antialdosterones; (P < 05). During the last year, 57% of patients had been admitted to hospital, of whom 45% were admitted for cardiovascular reasons. Conclusions. The most prevalent form of HF in Galicia was HF with preserved systolic function, which was mostly associated with high blood pressure due to poor control. In patients with ischemic heart disease, the use of coronary angiography was influenced by sex. Drug treatment was suboptimal. Intervention programs are required to improve care in these patients.