What is the most common type of valvular disease in the United States?

The recognition of aortic stenosis as the most prevalent valvular disease in the United States stems from its common association with aging and the demographic trends observed. As the population ages, the incidence of degenerative aortic stenosis increases significantly, largely due to rheumatic heart disease and the calcification of a normal trileaflet aortic valve.

In this context, aortic stenosis manifests with characteristic symptoms such as exertional dyspnea, angina, and syncope, and it can lead to significant morbidity if not treated properly. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiography, which helps assess the severity of the stenosis and manages treatment options, including surgical interventions.

Other valvular conditions, while prevalent, do not reach the same level of incidence. For instance, mitral valve prolapse, although common, tends to occur in a younger demographic and often remains asymptomatic. Tricuspid regurgitation usually presents as a secondary condition related to right heart failure and is not viewed as a primary isolated valvular disease as often as aortic stenosis is. Aortic regurgitation is less common compared to aortic stenosis and is typically associated with specific chronic conditions, such as rheumatic fever or aortic dis