Prevalence of angina and influence of risk factors among elderly: SAGE India data analysis

Angina, or angina pectoris, refers to a sensation of tightness or constriction in the chest caused by an insufficient supply of blood to the heart muscle a condition particularly affecting the elderly population. This study aims to assess the prevalence and influence of risk factors of angina among individuals aged 50 years and older. Data were obtained from the India Wave 3 of the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE), comprising 6,719 older adults. Prevalence estimates were analysed using a logistic regression model. To estimate relative risk and risk difference, generalized linear models (GLM) were applied using the Gaussian family with a log link for relative risk, and an identity link for risk difference to ensure model convergence. The GLM results indicated that individuals aged 50-60 years, females, and those identifying as Muslim or other religions had a significantly higher likelihood of reporting angina. Medical risk factors such as a history of chronic lung disease (OR=3.45, p<0.001), depression (OR=3.76, p<0.001), hypertension (OR=2.56, p<0.001), and diabetes (OR=1.52, p<0.05) were identified as major contributors to angina risk. Relative risk analysis revealed that chronic lung disease increased risk by 11.5%, depression by 10.8%, and hypertension by 4.55% compared to those without these conditions. In contrast, non-modifiable and behavioural factors such as education, place of residence, body mass index, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption did not show a significant association with angina in this analysis.