GIS Environment Based Study of Acute Myocardial Infarction Incidence and Associated Risk Factors at a Major Referral Cardiac Center in Twin City of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) is a critical cardiac condition characterized by sudden blood flow blockage to the heart. Previous research indicates associations between AMI risk and factors such as age, gender, lifestyle habits, and preexisting medical conditions.

Methods: This cross-sectional spatial analysis study aims to explore the geographically diverse incidence of AMI and associated risk factors in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Data from 500 AMI patients, collected in April 2022 from a major cardiac center, were analyzed using the Chi-square test to assess associations between AMI risk factors.

Results: Significant associations were identified between the lifestyle of AMI patients and diabetes (p = 0.002), and a highly significant association of age was found with diabetes, hypertension, and smoking (p = 0.000). This pioneering spatial analysis of AMI incidence provides valuable insights for developing national health interventions in Pakistan.

Conclusion: This study addresses the significant concern of AMI incidence and associated risk factors in data-sparse Pakistan. Utilizing Geographical Information System (GIS), it offers a spatial understanding of AMI distribution and patterns, paving the way for future cardiovascular health research in the country.