Epidemiology of vasovagal syncope

Abstract

Vasovagal syncope is a common symptom, but its true incidence is difficult to estimate because only a small percentage of patients with syncope seek medical advice. The estimated prevalence varies according to the setting and the population studied, but it is likely that up to 40% of people faint at least once in their life and prevalence is higher in females. Syncope incidence shows a bimodal distribution, with two peaks: before 20 and after 65 years old. While vasovagal syncope is the more likely cause of syncope in young people, cardiovascular diseases, orthostatic hypotension and multiple causes (reflecting a higher frailty) are more prevalent in the elderly.