Frequency and Clinical Profile of Acute Coronary Syndrome among Patients Presenting with Chest Pain

Background: Chest pain is one of the most common presenting complaints in emergency departments, with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) being a leading cause. Early recognition is essential for timely intervention and reduction of morbidity and mortality.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of acute coronary syndrome among patients presenting with chest pain.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 consecutive adult patients presenting with acute chest pain to the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital. Demographic details, risk factors, clinical features, electrocardiography, and cardiac biomarkers were analyzed. ACS was diagnosed according to standard criteria into ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA).

Results: Out of 200 patients with chest pain, 82 (41%) were diagnosed with ACS. Among them, 34 (41.5%) had STEMI, 28 (34.1%) had NSTEMI, and 20 (24.4%) had unstable angina. The mean age of ACS patients was 57.3 ± 11.2 years; 68.3% were male. Hypertension (56%), diabetes mellitus (38%), smoking (44%), and dyslipidemia (32%) were the major associated risk factors. Non-ACS chest pain (59%) was mainly due to musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, or pulmonary causes.

Conclusion: The prevalence of ACS among patients presenting with chest pain was 41%. Cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, and diabetes were strongly associated. Early identification of ACS in chest pain patients remains vital for reducing morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Acute Coronary Syndrome, Chest Pain, Prevalence, STEMI, NSTEMI, Unstable Angina.