What factors influence the durability of information gained from a stress test?
The durability of information gained from a stress test over time varies widely according to the characteristics of the patients and the type of test performed. Factors associated with an earlier increase in risk include diabetes mellitus, male sex, increased age (ie, $70 years), a history of previous MI or revascularization, and having undergone a pharmacological stress test rather than an exercise test327 (Figure 15). The relationships were, however, complex and covarying.