[Primary prevention of atherosclerosis]

Primary prevention consists of acts that decrease the level of risk factors in order to avoid the occurrence of atherosclerosis or to limit its consequences. Even incomplete control of risk factors leads to substantial decrease in the overall risk. Such results should encourage individuals and physicians to continue their efforts. First, the absolute risk for an individual should be evaluated on a risk scale. Then, the various factors to be targeted are smoking, hypertension, plasma lipid anomalies, lack of balanced diet, overweight, sedentary life style and diabetes. Compliance to recommended changes in life style varies greatly, which probably explains why the observed benefit is less than expected. Prevention should be an integral part of daily practice, and the motivation of both physicians and individuals must be constantly supported.