Cardiovascular Disease Patterns, Mortality, and Hospitalization Trends in Adults Over 18: Insights From the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Database

Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension, are the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Despite advancements in diagnostic techniques, treatment protocols, and public health initiatives, the prevalence of CVD continues to rise. Hence, understanding trends of predisposing factors for CVD and current treatment modalities such as medication use and frequency of hospitalization is essential for developing effective interventions and improving public health strategies. This study leverages Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data to analyze these trends among adults older than 18 years. Methods Data were sourced from the BRFSS database, analyzing CVD patterns from 2019 to 2021. The study included adults with high cholesterol or blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Data analysis utilized age-adjusted prevalence, mortality, and hospitalization rates. Results The analysis of the BRFSS data revealed several key trends in CVD patterns from 2019 to 2021. There was a statistically significant increase (p