Global epidemiology of acute coronary syndromes

This review discusses the global mortality rates from acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and highlights important trends. In 2020, men had higher mortality rates from ACS than women in regions with available data. Age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) for ACS were highest in lower-income regions. However, two decades ago, ASMRs were highest in higher-income regions such as Europe, Northern America, and Oceania, which have since witnessed significant reductions in ACS mortality. In contrast, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean have experienced relatively stable ACS mortality levels. In African countries with data, a slight increase in ASMRs for ACS was observed, reflecting an ongoing epidemiological transition. High-income countries have seen over 50% reductions in ASMRs, while lower-middle-income countries had less than 15% reductions.