Publisher's Synopsis
Heart failure affects many people. Its prevalence is probably rising, particularly in developing nations. Its impact is not only on the quality of life for the individual, but also on health care costs. Although management outside the hospital is improving as a result of specialized clinics, heart failure remains a frequent cause of admission to hospital, which is the most important determinant of high health care cost. All physicians who encounter patients with heart failure need to understand the condition and be able to detect the most appropriate strategy for the individual patient.