Characteristics of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians Requiring Urgent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention at a Regional Hospital

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: In Australia, ischaemic heart dis ease accounts for a significant portion of disparity in life expectancy between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous population. We aimed to assess differences in patient char acteristics between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Austra lians undergoing urgent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in a regional hospital setting. Method: A retrospective audit was conducted on all pa tients who underwent urgent PCI at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus from January 2019 to January 2022. Data collected included demographic factors and clinical param eters, particularly the risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, family history, dyslipidaemia, smoking) associated with ischaemic heart disease. Patients were grouped by self identified Indigenous and non-Indigenous status. Results: A total of 547 patients underwent urgent PCI, of which 27 self-identified as of Indigenous origin. The median age amongst the Indigenous group was 57 (range 42–69; IQR 9), whilst the median age amongst the non-Indigenous group was 69 (range 33–98; IQR 17). All identified risk fac tors for ischaemic heart disease were present in higher pro portions amongst the Indigenous population; in particular, rates of positive family history and smoking were almost double (85% vs 47%, 81% vs 54% respectively). Conclusion: Indigenous individuals requiring urgent PCI present at a younger age, and with more risk factors for ischaemic heart disease. Specifically targeting modifiable risk factors is of crucial importance in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.