Epidemiology and Clinical Outcomes of Pulmonary Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life-threatening condition characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure, leading to right heart failure and significant morbidity and mortality. Its epidemiology and clinical outcomes are influenced by various factors, including underlying etiologies, comorbidities, and treatment modalities. Objective: To assess the epidemiology, clinical features, treatment strategies, and outcomes of PH patients at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, from January to December 2023. A total of 250 PH patients were included, and data on demographics, clinical features, comorbidities, etiologies, treatment modalities, and clinical outcomes were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics by using SPSS (version 27). Results: The mean age of the participants was 52 ± 15 years, with a higher proportion of females (56%). The most common etiology of PH was Group 2 (PH due to left heart disease), accounting for 32% of cases, followed by Group 1 (pulmonary arterial hypertension) at 28%.  and 8% experienced deterioration. Hospitalization occurred in 36% of patients, with 14% mortality during the study period. Treatment modalities included diuretics (72%), anticoagulation (44%), and PH-targeted therapies such as endothelin receptor antagonists (18%) and phosphodiesterase inhibitors (14%). Conclusion: The findings of the present study highlight the high burden of PH in low-income populations, with significant comorbidities and limited access to advanced therapies. While some patients experienced clinical improvement, a large proportion of patients remained stable or deteriorated, underscoring the need for early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment strategies, and increased access to advanced therapies.