Trends in comorbidity, disability, and polypharmacy in heart failure

Abstract

Background Comorbidity, disability, and polypharmacy commonly complicate the care of patients with heart failure. These factors can change biological response to therapy, reduce patient ability to adhere to recommendations, and alter patient preference for treatment and outcome. Yet, a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of patients with heart failure is lacking. Our objective was to assess trends in demographics, comorbidity, physical function, and medication use in a nationally representative, community-based heart failure population. Methods Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we analyzed trends across 3 survey periods (1988-1994, 1999-2002, 2003-2008). Results We identified 1395 participants with self-reported heart failure (n = 581 in 1988-1994, n = 280 in 1999-2002, n = 534 in 2003-2008). The proportion of patients with heart failure who were <80 years old increased from 13.3% in 1988-1994 to 22.4% in 2003-2008 (P