Prevalence and Factors Associated with Major Arrhythmias and Conduction Abnormalities in Tanzanian Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Background: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the second most important cause of heart failure in Tanzania, and is associated with high mortality. Arrhythmias and/or conduction abnormalities contribute to sudden cardiac death, which occurs in up to 50% of DCM patients. Data on the burden and associated factors of rhythm and conduction abnormalities in DCM patients may help to prepare local treatment protocols.