Abnormal ECG Findings In Turkish Adults: An Epidemiologic Observational Study

Objective: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Abnormal electrocardiography (ECG) findings are predictors of short-term cardiovascular risk. We aimed to contribute lacking national epidemiologic data regarding the prevalence of abnormal ECG findings in Turkish adults. Methods: The prevalence of abnormal ECG findings and arrhythmias were investigated in the west Black sea region of Turkey. A total of 2239 subjects over 18 years old were examined with 12 derivation resting ECG in this large epidemiological observational cohort study. Pathological Q waves, axis deviation, high R amplitude, ST-T changes, atrioventricular (AV) blocks, intraventricular (IV) blocks, arrhythmias and low QRS voltage were interpreted as ECG parameters. ECG findings were classified according to the Minnesota coding system. Results: Mean age was 50 ± 15 (age=18 to 92) years. Age-adjusted (over 40 years old) prevalence of abnormal ECG findings and arrhythmias were detailed in the following respectively; pathological Q waves 2.06%, left axis deviation 9.64%, high R wave amplitude 6.57%, ST segment depression 2.01%, T inversion 3.25%, left bundle branch block (LBBB) 2.63%, extra systoles 3.26% and atrial fibrillation 2.01%. Conclusion: This observation reveals the increasing trend of the prevalence of arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD) and atrial fibrillation in the last two decades in Turkey.