Patient delay in acute myocardial infarction: a long journey still ahead

Abstract Background It is overly known that time delays in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) strongly influence its outcomes. Patient delay (PD) repeatedly pointed out as the longer one this context, well it less modifiable by organizational measures. Therefore, crucial to understand reasons for PD our population, define proper strategies improve and, ultimately, AMI-outcomes. Methods In six-month prospective study of patients (pts) admitted a tertiary hospital due type-1 AMI, 194 pts were consecutively enrolled between May and October 2021. Data was based on well-structured interview within 48h after admission review medical records. Results Our work spotted several aspects significantly influencing AMI context (Figure 1). Concerning cardiovascular background, trend towards shorter found with at least risk factor (CVRF) (p=0,08) previous history (p=0,08). Regarding clinical presentation, presenting associated symptoms (p=0,02), higher chest pain intensity (chest ≥7 vs <7 0–10 scale; p=0,03) onset weekdays rather than weekends (p=0,003). knowledge, significant differences when recognized their (p=0,006). Curiously, ability correctly identify symptoms, asked, or acknowledge CVRF (when present), did not PD. Considering sociodemographic factors, incomes (p=0,03) non-rural residence translated into No according age, gender educational level. After initial univariate analysis, multiple linear regression performed possible predictors Four variables identified: recognize (β −0.199; 95% CI: −277 −34,87; p=0.012), living 0.154; 0.12–161.44; p=0.05), −0.194; −257.43 −28.84; p=0.014) occurrence 0.170; 12.73–259.49; p=0.031) predicted patient delays. Conclusion clearly points need increasing public awareness measures, mainly rural areas, order to: 1) Improve knowledge about clarifying atypical can happen; 2) Reinforce importance shortening delays, explaining concept “time muscle”. Funding Acknowledgement Type funding sources: None.