Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading global cause of death, with emerging evidence linking respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including pneumonia, to increased cardiovascular risk. Acute infections may trigger events like myocardial infarction or stroke through inflammatory mechanisms, plaque destabilization, and endothelial dysfunction. In low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh, where RTIs are common and CVD rates are rising, this association has significant public health implications. Studies show a two- to four-fold increased risk of acute coronary events post-infection, especially in the elderly.
Aim of the study: This study aims to explore the association between recent respiratory tract infections or pneumonia and the risk of cardiovascular disease among patients in a tertiary care setting in Bangladesh.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted over six months, from (start) to (end), at (hospital name) in Bangladesh to assess the association between recent respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including pneumonia, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. A total of 100 adults aged 30 years or older were enrolled through purposive sampling, divided into two groups: 50 with recent RTI/pneumonia and 50 without. Data were collected via interviews, medical records and lab findings. Exclusion criteria included prior CVD and immunocompromised states. Statistical analysis using SPSS v26 included t-tests, Chi-square, and logistic regression to identify independent predictors of CVD, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: The results revealed that individuals with recent RTI/pneumonia were older (56.4±9.8 vs. 52.0±10.9 years, P=0.045), predominantly male (66%), and more likely urban residents (P=0.011). Smoking (60% vs. 34%, P=0.008), diabetes (50% vs. 28%, P=0.021), and hypertension (62% vs. 40%, P=0.024) were more prevalent in this group. CVD occurred significantly more in RTI patients (56% vs. 30%, P=0.009). They also showed higher systolic BP (P=0.012), LDL (P=0.037), and lower HDL (P=0.021). RTI/pneumonia was independently associated with CVD (AOR=2.68; 95% CI: 1.21-5.95; P=0.015).
Conclusion: This study found a significant link between recent respiratory infections or pneumonia and increased cardiovascular disease risk in Bangladeshi adults, emphasizing the need for early infection control, proactive cardiovascular monitoring, and integrated care strategies to reduce complications and improve health outcomes in at-risk populations.