The Brugada type 1 electrocardiographic pattern is common among Filipinos

Abstract 

Objective

To measure the prevalence of the Brugada type 1 ECG pattern in the general population in the Philippines.

Study Setting and Design

Sudden unexplained death syndrome is rare in the West but is common among Southeast Asians. Ventricular fibrillation is the terminal event. The Brugada type 1 electrocardiographic (ECG) pattern with J point and coved ST elevation in right precordial leads, is a marker for sudden unexplained death syndrome. Its prevalence in the general population is unknown. A cross-sectional nationwide survey was performed in the Philippines in 2003 using a stratified multistage sampling design covering all the regions and provinces in the country. ECGs were performed in all adults surveyed. The prevalences of the Brugada type 1 ECG pattern (coved type) and any type Brugada ECG pattern were determined.

Results

The Brugada type 1 (coved) ECG pattern in the general population in the Philippines was found in 0.2% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.03%–0.36%) of the population. Among males the prevalence was 0.3% (±0.1). The prevalence of any type Brugada ECG was 2% (95% CI 1.5%–2.6%).

Conclusion

The Brugada ECG pattern is common among Filipinos. There is a need to determine the risk of sudden death among individuals with this marker in the general population.

Keywords: SUDS, Brugada ECG pattern, Asian SUDS, Sudden unexplained death, “Bangungut”, Sudden death