Abstract 4371131: Trends in Angina and Heart Attack Prevalence by Sex, Region, and Social Vulnerability Among U.S. Adults (2019–2023)

Abstract

Background: Angina and myocardial infarction (MI) are major contributors to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We assessed recent trends in angina and MI prevalence by sex, region, and Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). Methods: Serial cross-sectional analysis using 2019–2023 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data. Adults aged 18–64 were included for angina; ≥18 years for MI. Outcomes were self-reported, physician-diagnosed angina or MI. Analyses were stratified by sex, region (Northeast, Midwest, South, West), and SVI level (Little/None, Low, Medium, High). Linear regression tested annual trends and interaction effects. Survey-weighted analyses were conducted using R v4.4.2. Results: National angina prevalence remained stable (1.3%–1.7%), while MI prevalence increased (+0.58%/year, p < 0.05). Sex: Males consistently had higher prevalence for both conditions. In 2023, angina was 1.9% in males vs. 1.4% in females; MI was 3.8% vs. 2.3%. Only MI showed a significant upward trend in males (p < 0.05); trend differences by sex were non-significant (p = 0.17 for angina; p = 0.975 for MI). Region: Highest prevalence for both conditions was seen in the South and Northeast (angina up to 1.9%, MI up to 3.4%), lowest in the West (angina ~1.5%, MI 2.1%). No significant regional trend differences were observed (p > 0.60). SVI: Medium vulnerability areas had the highest prevalence for both angina (~1.7%) and MI (3.5%). MI prevalence declined (−0.20%/year, p < 0.05), with significant trend differences in Low and Medium SVI groups (both p < 0.05). Angina trends by SVI were stable (interaction p = 0.17), but disparities persisted. Conclusion: From 2019–2023, angina remained stable while MI prevalence increased. Males, residents of the South, and individuals in medium SVI areas had consistently higher cardiovascular burden. Persistent disparities underscore the need for targeted public health interventions.