Cardiovascular Mortality in a Referral Internal Medicine Department in Cameroon

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a significant public health concern, responsible for more than 75% of deaths in low- and middle-income countries. In Cameroon, however, epidemiological data is limited. This study describes cardiovascular-related deaths in the Department of Internal Medicine at Douala General Hospital (DGH).

Methodology: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted over a ten-year period from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2022. Patients aged 18 years and older who were admitted for cardiovascular disease (CVD) were included in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were extracted from medical records using a predesigned data collection form.

Results: Of the 16,428 admissions, 1,840 (11.2%) were due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), predominantly among men (55.1%), with an average age of 60 ± 15 years. Among the 1,795 patients followed until discharge, 303 deaths were recorded, corresponding to an overall mortality rate of 1.8%, which was higher among men (17.2%). The mortality rate decreased from 0.27% in 2013 to 0.13% in 2022. The overall case fatality rate was 16.8%, primarily due to stroke (12.8%, including 8% hemorrhagic and 4.8% ischemic) and heart failure (2.6%). Over the study period, the case fatality rate decreased from 21% to 17.8%.

Conclusion: CVDs remain a major concern in Cameroon, with high case fatality rates linked to management challenges. Reducing this burden requires effective prevention strategies, strengthened technical resources, and improved quality of care.