BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Health authorities say cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in Barbados and are expressing concern that while most of these events occur in persons over 65 years old, cases are also reported in the younger population as well.
The Barbados National Registry (BNR) said cardiovascular disease rates in the Caribbean are higher than other countries in the Americas and continue to be the most significant contributor to deaths in the region. It also said that studies suggest that prevalence is increasing.
According to the BNR, in 2019, it registered 547 people with myocardial infarction (MI or heart attack), and this included confirmed hospital diagnoses and cases identified after death, using death certification records.
The BNR said that the three-year average for 2014 – 2016 in 391 cases versus 499 cases for 2017 – 2019. This implies a 28 percent increase in new cases over three years. This increase was driven by an increase in events in older women, ages 74-85 years, the absolute number surpassing points in men for the first time recorded by the BNR.
Age-standardised rate in 2019 was 101 per 100,000 in women 83 per 100,000 and in men 120 per 100,000 to 136 per 100,000. The in-hospital case fatality rate (CFR) was similar over the past three years, 2017, 2018, and 2019 at 21, 25, and 25 percent, respectively; this remains high compared to other countries.
“Strokes and heart attacks can lead to long-term complications, like depression and disability – limiting the quality of life and productivity for these patients in cases where they do not return to the total capacity. These disabilities may include the inability to walk, speak, care for themselves or carry out daily life activities. “
The authorities said Barbadians face several risk factors, including diabetes and hypertension, among the most common diseases diagnosed in primary care.
“These conditions contribute to disability and poor quality of life that result in long-term use of health services and add to the country’s financial burden. Fortunately, most of these diseases are preventable.”
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