Comparative Analysis of Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease in Young Patients Versus Older Patients Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with its burden increasingly affecting not only older adults but also younger individuals. Lifestyle changes, urbanization, and genetic predisposition have contributed to the earlier onset of CAD, especially in South Asian populations. Invasive interventions like primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) offer life-saving treatment, but understanding the differing risk profiles between age groups is essential for tailored prevention and management strategies.

Objective: The aim of this research was to compare the prevalence and impact of risk factors associated with CAD in young versus older patients undergoing primary PCI.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 123 patients with confirmed CAD who underwent primary PCI. Participants were categorized into age groups: 15–30, 31–45, 46–60, and 61–75 years. Data were collected through structured interviews and hospital records, focusing on modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, smoking, family history of CAD, stress, sedentary lifestyle, hyperlipidemia, and prior cardiovascular events.

Results: The majority of CAD cases were found in the 46–75 age group (70.8%). However, significant risk factor profiles were also observed in patients under 45, especially in terms of stress (73.2%), sedentary lifestyle (52.8%), and family history of CAD (60.2%). In older patients, hypertension (66.7%) and diabetes mellitus (48.8%) were dominant, while younger patients more frequently reported stress and a strong familial predisposition. Notably, only 8.1% were current smokers, but former smoking history was more prevalent in the older cohort. Despite 63.4% of the population claiming good knowledge about lifestyle changes to prevent CAD, the high prevalence of risk factors indicates a gap in practical adherence.

Conclusion: The study concludes that while traditional risk factors remain more prevalent in older populations, emerging behavioral and psychosocial factors are increasingly significant in younger patients with CAD. These findings emphasize the urgent need for age-specific prevention strategies and public health interventions focused on early risk detection and lifestyle modification, particularly among younger adults at risk of premature coronary events.