What is the most common type of cardiomyopathy?

Dilated cardiomyopathy is recognized as the most common type of cardiomyopathy. This condition is characterized by the dilation of the heart chambers, especially the left ventricle, leading to impaired systolic function. As the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently diminishes, patients may experience symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.

The prevalence of dilated cardiomyopathy in the general population surpasses that of hypertrophic, restrictive, and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathies. While hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, for example, is often genetically driven and can also lead to significant morbidity due to obstruction and arrhythmias, it is less commonly diagnosed in the general population. Restrictive cardiomyopathy, though serious, is relatively rare and often secondary to conditions like fibrosis or infiltration. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy primarily affects the right ventricle and might not exhibit the same prevalence as dilated cardiomyopathy.

Overall, the commonality of dilated cardiomyopathy among various populations, especially in cases related to ischemic heart disease and genetic factors, validates its status as the most prevalent form of cardiomyopathy.