Coronary risk factors 6-12 months after coronary artery bypass grafting. Comparison of surveys in 1986, 1990 and 1994.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess coronary risk factors and management 6-12 months after coronary artery bypass grafting. DESIGN: Patient survey by questionnaire after discharge from hospital in 1994 and comparison with similar surveys from 1990 and 1986. SETTING AND PATIENTS: One hundred and ninety-four patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting at one hospital campus between 1 March 1993 and 31 August 1993. Replies to questionnaires were received from 175 patients (90%); we had clinical and biochemical data for 166-175 patients (86%-90%). RESULTS: The proportion with hypercholesterolaemia (serum cholesterol levels > or = 6.5 mmol/L) declined from 60% in 1986 to 9% in 1994. Those with diastolic hypertension (> or = 95 mmHg) declined from 23% to 3%. The proportion of current smokers remained low at 6%. The proportion overweight had increased from 32% in 1986 to 47% in 1994. The proportion taking lipid-regulating drugs increased from 2% in 1986 to 37% in 1994. CONCLUSION: Coronary risk factors after coronary artery bypass grafting appear to be better managed in 1994 than in earlier years, but there may still be a need for improvement in lipid disorders and weight.