Understanding the Burden of Myocardial Infarction and Patient Preferences for Treatment: A Real-World Study Assessing Patients’ Perspectives via an Online Survey

Abstract

Purpose: Myocardial infarction (MI) remains to be associated with a high risk of recurrent cardiovascular events and disease burden. This study assessed patient perspectives on the burden of disease and treatment in the first year post-MI. Methods: Data were collected via a self-administered online questionnaire posted on the Carenity patient platform in the United States (10/30/2022−12/30/2022). Only patients who had an MI in the prior year were eligible for inclusion. Results: A total of 151 patients completed the survey. The majority were men (69%), median age was 50 years, and 38% had an MI within the previous 90 days. Overall, post-MI complications were reported in 44% of the patients, including depression (23%), recurrent MI (7%), and stroke (7%). Follow-up care was provided by general/clinical cardiologists (67%), interventional cardiologists (38%), and general healthcare providers (59%). Most patients (80%) reported involvement in treatment decisions. The number of prescribed medications was considered the main contributor to post-MI treatment burden; approximately 42% of the patients found it tedious remembering to take their medications. The most commonly quoted post-MI treatment goal was recurrent MI risk reduction. Additionally, 73% of the patients considered improving quality of life to be a key goal. Overall, the patients’ emotional well-being, physical well-being, and personal life were particularly impacted by MI. “Stress/anxiety/fear” was the most frequently reported emotion immediately post-MI, and one-third conveyed MI’s negative impact on their employment status. MI impacted household finances in 74% of patients, with 38% losing income. Conclusions: MI places a substantial burden on patients. Understanding patient experiences post-MI may enhance patient-centered care.