Epidemiological Characteristics and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in HFrEF Patients at Military Hospital in Marrakech, Morocco: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) represents a growing global public health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where cardiovascular risk factors are prevalent and undercontrolled. Data from North Africa and Morocco remain scarce. Objectives: To describe the epidemiological profile and cardiovascular risk factor distribution of HFrEF patients hospitalized at a military tertiary center in Marrakech, Morocco. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study conducted between December 2021 and December 2023, including 173 adult patients hospitalized for HFrEF (LVEF ≤ 40%) at the Cardiology Department of Avicenne Military Hospital. Data were extracted from medical records and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019. Results: The mean age was 67.9 ± 8.7 years (range 38–92), with a strong male predominance (80%). The most prevalent cardiovascular risk factors were sedentary lifestyle (85%), smoking (53%), type 2 diabetes (45%), hypertension (33%), and dyslipidemia (33%). Associated comorbidities included anemia (45%), renal failure (36%), and prior ischemic cardiomyopathy (41.6%). These findings align broadly with international registries while highlighting specificities of the North African context. Conclusion: HFrEF in Morocco predominantly affects elderly males with multiple modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. This profile underscores the urgent need for comprehensive primary prevention strategies and improved management of hypertension, diabetes, and smoking in the region.