Assessment tools for unrecognized myocardial infarction: a cross-sectional analysis of the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke population.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Routine electrocardiograms (ECGs) are not recommended for asymptomatic patients because the potential harms are thought to outweigh any benefits. Assessment tools to identify high risk individuals may improve the harm versus benefit profile of screening ECGs. In particular, people with unrecognized myocardial infarction (UMI) have elevated risk for cardiovascular events and death.

Methods

Using logistic regression, we developed a basic assessment tool among 16,653 participants in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study using demographics, self-reported medical history, blood pressure, and body mass index and an expanded assessment tool using information on 51 potential variables. UMI was defined as electrocardiogram evidence of

SUBMITTER: Levitan EB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3617994 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature