Prevalence of Chronic Venous Disease in primary care centers in Azerbaijan: the VEINSCOPE study

Abstract

Aim: CVD is a chronic disorder that substantially changes the quality of life for the patient since the first symptomatic stages. The effect of CVD in the general population is often undervalued and not well detected by health systems. The aim of this study was to update the information on the prevalence of CVD and its stages in accordance with CEAP classification and evaluate the treatment status of CVD patients and the tactics and steps of GPs undertaken in order to manage these patients. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional multicenter study was performed in primary care centers in which sequential patients searching medical help, regardless of reason, were enrolled. The study included 3249 patients. Data were collected by the use of a questionnaire and clinical examination. Results: The prevalence of CVD (CEAP categories C0s–C6) was 48.5%. Only 26.9% of the patients had advised with their physicians because of their venous problems in the lower extremities. 30.8% of the patients had received either oral treatment or combination of oral and topical treatments for the given symptoms. Only 5.4% of the cases were redirected to the specialist. Conclusion: Chronic venous disease is extremely prevalent among patients examined at primary care clinics in Azerbaijan particularly in women and elderly patients. Redirection to a specialist is uncommon.