The epidemiology of heart failure in Australia

Background The epidemiology of heart failure is poorly understood. Australia has one of the highest rates of cardiovascular disease in the world with heart failure representing a large proportion of this group, yet there is minimal data on the incidence or prevalence. Aims To determine the epidemiological impact of heart failure in Australia by assessing mortality and morbidity data. Methods Data were obtained from National and State health organisations in terms of morbidity and mortality of heart failure. Data were obtained from several sources so as to provide a comprehensive picture of the available epidemiological data on heart failure. Results The mortality rates associated with heart failure have been decreasing substantially over the last 20 years. However, there appears to be a stabilisation of heart failure presentations over the last decade, both nationally and in the state of New South Wales. Extrapolation of the data to assess prevalence of heart failure in the community was not possible. Conclusions Currently, mortality rates for heart failure are decreasing in Australia, while there does not appear to be any real increase in the numbers of patients admitted to hospital with a subsequent diagnosis of heart failure over a 10 year period.