This pathology is also responsible for 160,000 to 200,000 hospitalizations and 70,000 deaths per year. “It is a disease that has a worse prognosis than most cancers. (breast, colon, prostate, etc.), explains Patrick Khanoyan, head of the cardiology department at Saint Joseph hospital and coordinator of the Cardiology Federation. After a first hospitalization there is 40% re-hospitalization within six months. The cost of the pathology is considerable for the community, around 2.5 million euros, including a billion euros for hospitalizations.“
Causes multiples
If those over 60 are most affected (10% of patients are over 75, Editor’s note), it can occur years before. “At age 40, there is a one in five chance of developing heart failure. At 55, it’s a one in three chance.” continues the specialist. Hence the importance of consulting at the slightest warning signs which can be summed up in four letters: EPOF acronym for shortness of breath, weight gain, edema of the lower limbs and fatigue. “None of these symptoms are specific but they are suggestive depending on age and context.“, continues Dr Khanoyan. The causes are multiple. Following a myocardial infarction, high blood pressure or diabetes. Other factors are listed as rhythm disorders, genetics, toxic with the alcohol, drugs and certain chemotherapies.
“Systematize screening”
Taken in time, heart failure can be controlled. “New treatments have profoundly changed the life expectancy of patients. Therapeutic classes have been real revolutions which have made it possible to reduce mortality and hospitalizations. Today, people with heart failure have the hope of a most normal life.”
Now the biggest challenge is turning the trial into a national cause. “Systematize early detection of heart failure to limit loss of opportunity.“
- For the first national heart failure screening day, 25 French hospitals responded. In Paca, only the Saint Joseph hospital in Marseille will offer screening on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the entrance hall of the Fouque building.
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