An observational study of co-morbidities in male Caucasian and South Asian sub-populations with acute coronary syndrome

BackgroundAcute coronary syndromes (ACS) are one of the most common presentations to secondary care. In addition to established co-morbidities, ethnicity appears to play a significant role with South Asians deemed to be at particular risk.MethodsAn observational, retrospective study was performed to compare prevalence and management of co-morbidities in male South Asian versus Caucasian populations presenting with ACS. 225 patients were included.ResultsPrevalence of smoking, pre-existing hypertension and hyperlipidaemia was similar. Compliance with ACE-inhibitors/ARB, beta-blockers and high-dose statins also appeared to be comparable. South Asians demonstrated a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) compared with Caucasians (43% versus 19%, p = 0.003), in correlation with higher average BMI (26.3 versus 22.6, p = 0.019). Requirements for ≥ 1 oral hypoglycaemic (12% versus 3%, p = 0.030) and insulin therapy (9% versus 4%, p = 0.045) was greater. South Asians also demonstrated poorer glycaemic control as defined by HbA1c > 48 mM (79% versus 58%, p = 0.004).ConclusionsResults from this study advocate a particular need to monitor glycaemic control in South Asian subgroups, who demonstrate preponderance towards type 2 DM. Cultural and language barriers may account for this disparity and require particular focus.