Risk reduction strategies in coronary artery disease

The growing knowledge of the basic science of the atherosclerotic plaque, the identification of modifiable risk factors, and the development of the effective medical therapies have provided the physician with powerful tools to alter the course of atherosclerotic disease in the post myocardial infarction patient. Lipids have emerged as a primary target for modification in addition to attention to traditional lifestyle modification such as smoking cessation, diet, and exercise. This article reviews lipid management as well as therapy and goals. Traditional and some "new" risk factors are also addressed. The risk of subsequent events in the post myocardial infarction patient can be dramatically altered, thus the patient who follows suggested guidelines can expect to have improved quality and quantity of life after an infarction.