Decrease of mortality rate in coronary artery disease. Argentina 1977-1985. Possible explanations

pp 170-176

Abstract

The age-adjusted mortality rate from coronary heart disease (CHD) in Argentina was analized for the period 1977-1985. The annual mortality rate decreased by 5.12 % for the men and by 5.29% for the women. The decrease in CHD mortality was more significant in men aged 35-44 years and over 75 years of age and in women over 65 years of age. The decreased mortality can be attributed to various changes that occurred in Argentinien diet and smoking habits. The consumption of bovine, ovine and porcine meat decreased since 1970 by 17.1 %, 49.1 % and 19.5% respectively, as the consumption of whole milk (27.2"to) butter (24 %) and cigarretes (24 ole), while the consumption of fish, pultry and skim milk and cheese increased markedly. Other factors that may affect CHD mortality are the control of blood pressure and the introduction of new ways of treatment (surgical and pharmacological). The continuous follow-up of the CHD mortality rates will define the characteristics of the disease in the community and will help in the development of strategies aimed to prevent and control CHD.