Abstract

To investigate the impact of refugee life on cardiovascular events has not been adequately studied. We examined the angiographic profile and risk factors of Syrian refugees who migrated to Turkey and presented to our clinic with acute coronary syndrome.

In this retrospective descriptive study, 201 Syrian refugees who underwent coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome were included. Demographic data, laboratory values, risk factors, and in-hospital outcomes were recorded. To assess the burden of coronary atherosclerosis, the SYNTAX 1 score, number of diseased vessels, TIMI thrombus burden, and flow grade were determined. Data not conforming to normal distribution were presented as median values.

Most of the population was male (70.6%), with a mean age of 56 (49.5-61). The rates were 41.8%, 37.8%, and 20.4%, respectively. The prevalence of risk factors was as follows: hypertension (59.2%), diabetes (36.8%), hyperlipidemia (86%), smoking (65.6%), and previous coronary artery disease (21.3%). In 83% of the patients, the SYNTAX 1 score was >22; 50.4% had a high thrombus burden, 95% had multivessel disease, 74.1% underwent stent implantation, and 17.9% required coronary artery bypass grafting. The in-hospital mortality rate was 5% (10).

Our study revealed that Syrian refugees have a significant burden of coronary artery disease. These findings demonstrate the importance of cardiovascular care strategies for refugees.