The Effect of Pulmonary Hypertension on Mortality of Heart Failure Patients in a Nigerian Population

Abstract

Background:  Pulmonary hypertension has become increasingly recognized as a contributory cause of death in patients with heart failure. This study examines the effect of pulmonary hypertension on the survival of heart failure patients, both intra-hospital and follow-up for one year.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study in which one hundred and fifty patients admitted for heart failure were recruited.

Results: A total of 31 (22.67%) patients admitted for heart failure died within one year of presentation. Among those that died, 22 (71%) had pulmonary hypertension, while 9 (29%) did not have pulmonary hypertension. The one-year mortality rate was 27.2% and 13.0% in heart failure patients with and without pulmonary hypertension respectively. Also, the intra-hospital mortality was 12.3% and 5.8% in heart failure patients with and without pulmonary hypertension respectively.

Conclusion: This study shows a high one-year mortality rate among patients with heart failure; with intra-hospital mortality rate of 10%. There is therefore need for better management strategies to help reduce mortality in heart failure patients.