Angina pectoris in Italian out-patients observed: Characteristics and therapeutic implications

The aim of this study was to investigate characteristics and therapeutic implications of a contemporary, non-hospitalised population with angina pectoris, observed by cardiology's services in Italy. Entry criteria included at least 10 patients, in each centre, taking topical nitrates since 1-month minimum. Data were collected by using a case report form available on the website www.cardioweb.net. A total of 1867 patients were recruited in 187 cardiology centres. Their mean age was 68.2 years and the majority were men (61.8%). Of these patients, 57.4% had a diagnosis of chronic stable angina, while 13.7% had unstable angina. Hypercolesterolemia (59%) and familiarity for coronary artery disease (44%) were the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases most frequently identified in the observed population. Hypertension was present in the majority of patients as concomitant disease. Nitrates in association with antiaggregants (81.9%) were used most frequently. Furthermore, this study provides information about the use of topical nitrates in terms of efficacy, patient compliance and safety. 1185 patients were in treatment with a new patch and 682 with other topical formulations. The new transdermal system, compared to the other ones, showed better performance and safety.